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Contemplative Practice & Studies

Across all degree programs, classes, and workshops, a gift supporting contemplative practice and studies helps ensure Naropa University’s as a leader in contemplative education in the United States.

As a hub for the study and development of contemplative education, CACE at Naropa offers various ways for educators and students to integrate contemplative pedagogy and practice into their teaching and studies. Here at Naropa, contemplative education is at the very heart of what we do. 

Contemplative practices—mindfulness, compassion, meditation, yoga, and more—guide our students to their most authentic selves. Here, you will discover that your academic achievements and future successes are most powerful when matched with the sense of purpose that comes from knowing yourself. This is how you will find the work you are meant to do. This is how the world is transformed. 

A scholar of Buddhism, general systems theory and deep ecology, Dr. Joanna Macy has been a visionary force in environmental activism. Her groundbreaking work draws from spiritual traditions, general systems theory and deep ecology to inspire a transition to sustainable human culture.

The Joanna Macy Center for Resilience and Regeneration at Naropa seeks to advance the Dr. Macy’s vision and legacy to empower present and future generations in building a more resilient world that works for all.

The Lenz Foundation Distinguished Guest Lecturer Program in Buddhist Studies and American Culture and Values promotes diversity of thought and practice at Naropa University with distinguished guest lecturers drawn from communities, traditions and scholarship related to Buddhism in America that supplement existing university expertise.

Please visit the Extended Campus web section for information pertaining to the 2023 Lenz Distinguished Lecturer, Calligrapher Barbara Bash.

In the early 1980s, Chögyam Trungpa Rinpoche conceived a Japanese-inspired tea house, which was then constructed by his students as a birthday gift. It was a perfect addition to a contemplative community centered on mindful spaces and practices. Originally located at Trungpa Rinpoche’s Boulder home, the tea house was moved to Naropa’s Arapahoe Campus in 1989, two years after his passing.

Throughout the years, the tea house has been a resource for contemplative practice, intercultural competency, and appreciation of the arts for students and community members. A retreat from the noise and speed of daily life, the tea house is an integral and indispensable part of Naropa’s history and our founder’s original vision. Rooted in Naropa’s history and its founder’s vision, revitalizing the tea community hinges on nurturing the practice space, requiring upkeep to preserve its uncluttered and lucid ambiance. Delve deeper into the legacy of the historic Naropa Tea House.

Naropa University’s Federal Employer Identification Number (EIN) is 84-1029228.

All donations are tax deductible to the full extent allowed by law.

FAQ

Accreditation is the process by which an outside review body certifies a college or university as meeting certain educational standards. Accreditation is an important “stamp of approval.” Accredited colleges and universities have proven that they are committed to educational quality and improvement.

 

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The Higher Learning Commission (HLC) is an independent corporation which accredits degree-granting post-secondary educational institutions.

Yes. Naropa University was first accredited in 1986 by the North Central Association and has been continually accredited since that time. Most recently, in 2015, Naropa’s accreditation was reaffirmed by the Higher Learning Commission.

There are many good reasons to attend an accredited institution. Here are a few of them:

  • Quality Education – Accredited colleges and universities deliver high quality educational programs.
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  • Financial Aid – Accredited schools receive student financial aid dollars.
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  • Transfer – Most schools will only accept transfer credits from an accredited school.
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  • Graduate School – Most graduate programs will only accept students with degrees from accredited schools.

YOU ARE READY.

This is where experiential learning meets academic rigor. Where you challenge your intellect and uncover your potential. Where you discover the work you’re moved to do—then use it to transform our world.

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Academics

Contemplative education brings together the best of Western scholarship and Eastern world wisdom traditions. Therefore, your pursuit of wisdom at Naropa means learning both about academic subjects and about your own place in the world. This innovative approach places Naropa on the cutting edge of the newest and most effective methods of teaching and learning.  

Admissions & Aid

If you’re seeking an education that resonates with both personal fulfillment and global impact, Naropa could be your top choice. At Naropa, you will experience a comprehensive curriculum that integrates the best of Eastern and Western educational approaches. Explore how Naropa can fuel your journey of intellectual and spiritual development.

Life at Naropa

Through its incredibly vibrant and welcoming community,  “Naropa offers a home for those who aren’t willing to conform to convention—the mystic, the healer, the prophet, the rebel, the artist, the revolutionary, the oddball—those who are incredible contributors to the evolution of society and of our planet.”—Core Associate Professor Zvi Ish-Shalom

The Naropa Difference

How is Naropa different from other universities? At Naropa, a liberal arts education balances rigorous academics with powerful interpersonal skills and self-awareness to educate the whole person. Naropa’s contemplative approach is inspired by Buddhist philosophy and the conviction that we can build a diverse, contemplative, enlightened society when we have transformed education to affirm the basic goodness of every person. 

About Naropa

Located in Boulder, Colorado, Naropa University is a Buddhist-inspired, nonsectarian liberal arts university that is recognized as the birthplace of the mindfulness movement. Naropa offers undergraduate and graduate degree programs that emphasize professional and personal growth, intellectual development, and cultivating compassion. 

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Naropa Campuses Closed on Friday, March 15, 2024

Due to adverse weather conditions, all Naropa campuses will be closed Friday, March 15, 2024.  All classes that require a physical presence on campus will be canceled. All online and low-residency programs are to meet as scheduled.

Based on the current weather forecast, the Healing with the Ancestors Talk & Breeze of Simplicity program scheduled for Friday evening, Saturday, and Sunday will be held as planned.

Staff that do not work remotely or are scheduled to work on campus, can work remotely. Staff that routinely work remotely are expected to continue to do so.

As a reminder, notifications will be sent by e-mail and the LiveSafe app.  

Regardless of Naropa University’s decision, if you ever believe the weather conditions are unsafe, please contact your supervisor and professors.  Naropa University trusts you to make thoughtful and wise decisions based on the conditions and situation in which you find yourself in.