Life at NaropaLiving In BoulderAbout Boulder

About Boulder

The accolades given to the city of Boulder are so numerous and diverse that the municipality keeps a running list on the City of Boulder website:

Spirituality, environmentalism, science, sports, and the arts make Boulder, with a population of approximately 100,000, a cultural and creative force.

A Boulderite could feasibly go to class in the morning, hike a Boulder Mountain Park trail at lunch, eat dinner at an international restaurant and, finally, see a performance at historic Chautauqua Auditorium before capping the night off at one of Boulder’s many cafés.

The Beat writers played an important role in the city’s history, as well as the history of the university. Naropa celebrates art and artists through regular departmental performances, as well as events like the Boulder Fringe Festival, which has roots in Naropa theater.

Outside magazine calls Boulder the “best all-around town” for outdoor experience, and it’s easy to see why. Boulder is a great jumping-off point to the bountiful natural resources of Colorado, offering a wealth of opportunities for hikers, climbers, skiers, snowboarders, cyclists, kayakers, and more.

For social outings and nightlife, Boulder residents head to downtown’s famous Pearl Street Mall; the lively, youthful environs of University Hill; or nearby Denver. Boulder draws some of the country’s best touring musical artists and a wide range of cultural events to venues like the Fox Theatre and Boulder Theater—not to mention the world-famous Red Rocks Park and Amphitheater, which is only a short drive away.

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.