Won Institute of Graduate Studies, located in Warminster, Pennsylvania, is a regionally accredited graduate school offering programs in Acupuncture Studies, Chinese Herbal Medicine and Won Buddhist Studies. 45
WON INSTITUTE...
Employs a diverse faculty, many of whom are professional practitioners, business owners, and meditation specialists. Offers small class sizes allowing faculty members to share their expertise with students in a personalized learning environment.
Has a fully-staffed faculty and student acupuncture and Chinese herbal medicine clinic that sees patients throughout the week, a well-established library, and strong student support services
Focuses on self-cultivation and personal development through meditation and journaling assignments. This gives acupuncturists a new tool for treating patients and aids students in developing awareness by becoming more perceptive to the needs of others.
Hosts a variety of guest speakers, sitting and moving meditation classes, and Continuing Education (CE) events.
Minutes to Center City Philadelphia
Warminster, PA, is a suburb of Philadelphia –less than 20 minutes from Doylestown, 15 minutes to Willow Grove and 45 minutes from Center City Philadelphia.
WON BUDDHISM
Founded in 1916 with the awakening experience of Sot’aesan Pak Chung-bin (1891-1943), Won Buddhism is a contemporary, reformed Korean Buddhism that brings Buddhist teachings and practice out of the monasteries and into the lives of everyday people. Won Buddhism is guided by the conviction that spiritual cultivation is necessary to balance material and technological advances.
As its founder, Sot’aesan led the new Won Buddhist order for twenty-eight years during the Japanese colonial occupation of Korea and World War II. He built a strong foundation for Won Buddhism through three key undertakings: edification, education, and charity. Before his death in 1943, he compiled and published the doctrine and teachings of Won Buddhism with several classic Buddhist texts, which all represent the foundation of the Won Buddhist Studies Program.
Being into nonbeing and nonbeing into being Turning and turning - in the ultimate Being and nonbeing are both void Yet this void is complete
Learn more about Won Buddhism on our Won Buddhism Explained webpage.
WON BUDDHIST STUDIES
Won Institute of Graduate Studies is the only higher-education institution outside of Korea that offers Won Buddhist Studies. The Won Buddhist Studies program welcomes individuals interested in learning about Won Buddhism and Buddhism in general. It prepares prospective Won Buddhist ministers for ordination and educates lay leaders. Our program is designed to assist students in building a strong practice and to prepare them for teaching Won Buddhism.
The practice aspect of the program is paired with an equally important academic component Students develop a thorough understanding of Won Buddhism and build critical thinking, research, and academic writing skills Students may focus on areas of specific interest, such as meditation, moving meditation, Buddhist philosophy, or Won Buddhist doctrine
“Community is the living heart of Buddhism.”
COMMUNITY
Whether learning to integrate Won Buddhism or other Buddhist practices into one’s life, studying for ordination, or preparing for lay leadership, being part of a community of practitioners is invaluable. As one of the Three Jewels of Buddhism, the community of practitioners represents the living heart of Buddhism.
Students in the Won Buddhist Studies program are part of a small, intimate community of serious practitioners and interact with many non-Buddhists exploring the ancient wisdom teachings offered at the Won Institute.
Monthly temple services bring students and temple members together for meditation, dharma talks, and discussions of practice
WON BUDDHIST STUDIES
PRACTICAL EXPERIENCE
Won Buddhist Studies students learn to cultivate their own contemplative practice
Through a practical and simple daily discipline of contemplative stillness and active engagement, students develop a practical application of Won Buddhist principles.
Our program culminates with a practicum experience (optional for Certificate track students), in which students apply their knowledge to teaching others. They learn how to create a calm, welcoming environment for teaching dharma or practice such as yoga or meditation.
ALUMNI & ORDINATION
A Master’s Degree in Won Buddhist Studies provides students with a solid foundation for a career in helping professions, such as social work, chaplaincy or lay leadership within the Won Buddhist community. Many students enroll simply to further personal development or spiritual goals. Anyone interested in the Buddhist path is welcome in our classrooms
The ordination track prepares students for ordination into the Won Buddhist Order. Our ordained alumni work as ministers in Won Buddhist temples and retreat centers, teach meditation, and serve as chaplains.
Students may also choose to pursue the Master’s Degree in Won Buddhist Studies as a foundation for future academic studies. Several of our students have entered prominent MA and PhD programs at other institutions.
PROGRAM DETAILS
MASTER OF WON BUDDHIST STUDIES
The 36-credit program in Won Buddhist Studies leads to a Master of Won Buddhist Studies (MWBS) degree. There are two tracks in the program: the general track and the ordination track
Students with an academic, professional, or personal interest in studying Won Buddhism are invited to enroll in the general track. This track integrates spiritual awakening, critical thinking, and active service to help create and augment a student’s academic, professional, or personal goals This track also provides education and training for laity interested in leadership roles within the community.
The ordination track provides a high-quality professional education to students preparing for ordination as Won Buddhist ministers.
Years to Complete *full time 2
Credits
Program Retreats per Year
PROGRAM DETAILS
MWBS REQUIRED COURSES
WON BUDDHISM (12 CREDITS)
WBS 531 (3 credits) Heart of Awakening
WBS 536 (3 credits) Cultivating the Mind
WBS 541 (3 credits) Ground of Won Buddhist Ethics
WBS 660 (3 credits) Master’s Degree Project**
** required for general track
PRACTICE (10 CREDITS)
9 credits from the following:
WBS 520 (3 credits) Buddhist Meditation*
WBS 560 (3 credits) Basics of Meditation Facilitation
WBS 585 (3 credits) Survey of Contemplative Practice
WBS 590 (3 credits) Won Buddhist Retreat in Korea
WBS 610 (3 credits) Buddhist Pastoral Counseling
WBS 590 (3 credits) Won Buddhist Homiletics and Liturgy*
CP 670 (3 credits) Theory and Practice of Vital Energy I**
CP 675 (3 credits) Theory and Practice of Vital Energy II
1 credit earned by completing two of the following:
CP 510 (0 5 credit) Moving Meditation I
CP 620 (0.5 credit) Moving Meditation II
CP 721 (0.5 credit) Moving Meditation III
* Required for ordination-track students
THEORY & APPLICATION (12 CREDITS)
RES-WBS 555 (3 credits) Critical Thinking and Writing Research Papers
9 credits from the following:
WBS 505 (3 credits) Basic Buddhist Teachings
WBS 515 (3 credits) Issues in Interfaith Dialogue
WBS 545 (3 credits) Buddhism and Modernity
WBS 570 (3 credits) Applications of Meditation for the Individual & Society
PSY-WBS 580 (3 credits) Buddhist Psychology
WBS 620 (3 credits) History of Buddhist Philosophy and Practice
WBS 625 (3 credits) Won Buddhism Encounters the West
WBS 640 (3 credits) Future Development of Won Buddhism
WBS 645 (3 credits) The Science of Meditation
WBS 655 (3 credits) Won Buddhist Temple Management*
WBS 675 (3 credits) Independent Study
EPM-A 791 (1 credit) Mental Health Issues: Special Topics
* required for ordination track
PRACTICA (2 CREDITS)
WBS 550 (1 credit) Practicum I *
WBS 680 (1 credit) Practicum II *
PROGRAM DETAILS
Year to Complete 1 18 1
Credits Program Retreat
CERTIFICATE IN WON BUDDHIST STUDIES
The Certificate in Won Buddhist Studies (CWBS) is an 18-credit program for students wishing to deepen their understanding of Buddhism and Won Buddhism in the context of other religious traditions, foster a personal contemplative practice, and broaden their career options. Students can customize their program to suit individual interests and development goals. Certificate students can choose to enroll in the Master’s degree program in Won Buddhist Studies and may apply their certificate courses toward the completion of the
PROGRAM DETAILS
CWBS REQUIRED COURSES
WON BUDDHISM (9 CREDITS)
WBS 531 (3 credits) Heart of Awakening
WBS 536 (3 credits) Cultivating the Mind
WBS 541 (3 credits) Ground of Won Buddhist Ethics
ELECTIVE COURSES (MINIMUM OF 9 CREDITS)
Theory and Application
WBS 505 (3 credits) Basic Buddhist Teachings
WBS 520 (3 credits) Buddhist Meditation
WBS 545 (3 credits) Buddhism and Modernity
WBS 560 (3 credits) Basics of Meditation Facilitation
WBS 570 (3 credits) Applications of Meditation for the Individual and Society
PSY-WBS 580 (3 credits) Buddhist Psychology
WBS 585 (3 credits) Survey of Contemplative Practice
WBS 590 (3 credits) Won Buddhist Retreat in Korea
WBS 620 (3 credits) History of Buddhist Philosophy and Practice
WBS 645 (3 credits) The Science of Meditation
WBS 675 (3 credits) Independent Study
CP 670 (3 credits) Theory and Practice of Vital Energy I
CP 675 (3 credits) Theory and Practice of Vital Energy II
EPM-A 791(2 credits) Mental Health Issues: Special Topics
Practice
WBS 610 (3 credits) Buddhist Pastoral Counseling
CP 510 (0 5 credit) Moving Meditation I
CP 620 (0.5 credit) Moving Meditation II
CP 551 (0.5 credit) Sitting Meditation I
CP 671 (0.5 credit) Sitting Meditation II
PROGRAM DETAILS
PROGRAM GOALS:
Prepare students to be Won Buddhist ministers, lay leaders, and scholars
Understanding Won Buddhist thought through the lens of a new religious ethics of beneficence, social justice, and the threefold practice (samadhi, prajna, sila)
Fluency in the Won Buddhist Canon
Understanding the history and development of Won Buddhism
Instruction in the rituals, homiletics, liturgy and the role of clergy in the Won Buddhist community, including the youth ministry
Instruction in the full range of practices including: chanting, journaling, seated and moving meditation and their psychophysical effects on the well-being of the individual
Prepare students to deliver to American audiences the teachings, practices, and rituals of Won Buddhism Expand understanding of contemporary spirituality in the U.S.
WON BUDDHIST STUDIES PROGRAM EDUCATIONAL OBJECTIVES:
Critical thinking and textual analysis
Graduate-level academic research and writing
Knowledge of the critical issues facing contemporary Won Buddhism
Practicing inter-religious dialogue and ecumenism
Ministerial work and leadership as a spiritual mentor or counselor
Designing and delivering a training model based on the teachings of Won Buddhism
Providing ongoing consultation regarding Buddhist and Won Buddhist meditation
Applying Won Buddhist teachings in America
ALUMNI QUOTES
“The Won Institute is a place where I solidified my practice and learned how to expand my compassion toward the world and its people.”
Rev. Sunjung Yun, PhD Candidate, UCLA Class of 2007
“I am very grateful to be here at Won learning about Buddhism with great instructors. I love my classes and leave class knowing something new about Buddhism or myself."
Colleen Ruane, Class of 2020
PROGRAM HIGHLIGHT: 10-DAY INTENSIVE MEDITATION RETREAT IN SOUTH KOREA
This 10-Day Intensive Meditation Retreat in South Korea is located in Yeonggwang, Jeollanamdo Province at Youngsan University of Seon Studies, and led by WBS Program Chair, Dr Grace J Song
COURSE DESCRIPTION & HIGHLIGHTS
This study abroad course invites students to immerse themselves in the profound historical roots and rituals of Won Buddhism while gaining insights into South Korean culture During a 10-day immersive retreat in Yeonggwang, the hometown of Founding Master Sotaesan, participants will engage in meditation practices, attend informative lectures, and journey to various sacred sites throughout South Korea
Historical Foundations:
Trace the footsteps of Won Buddhism's founder, Master Sotaesan, and delve into the pivotal events that shaped this tradition Participants will stay in the very place where Sotaesan once lived, with the nearby mountains and the Yellow Sea within easy reach.
Practical Mediation Techniques:
Practical Meditation Techniques:
Engage in daily meditation sessions under the guidance of seasoned Won Buddhist kyomunims, learning practices to cultivate mindfulness, inner peace, and clarity
Sacred Site Tours:
Embark on spiritually enriching excursions to historically significant Buddhist and Won Buddhist temples, meditation halls, and places of worship
Cultural Immersion:
Embrace the Korean way of life, from learning Korean calligraphy, participating in traditional tea ceremonies, and experimenting with Korean traditional percussion instruments to understand the symbiotic relationship between Korean culture and Won Buddhist practices.
PROGRAM HIGHLIGHT: 10-DAY INTENSIVE MEDITATION RETREAT
IN
SOUTH KOREA
Interactive Discussions: Participate in group discussions on the core teachings of Won Buddhism, its relevance in the contemporary world, and ways to integrate its teachings into daily life.
Personal Spiritual Growth: Through self-reflection, journaling activities, and personal guidance sessions, embark on an inward journey to discover your innate potential and spiritual journey as a Won Buddhist practitioner or acupuncture student.
LEARNING OBJECTIVES:
Gain familiarity and understanding of Won Buddhism’s history and core teachings.
Engage in self-reflection and journaling activities to facilitate a deeper understanding of one's personal spiritual growth
ADMISSIONS REQUIREMENTS & FINANCIAL AID
For ordination-track students, there are two modes of entrance into the program:
2.
The first requires a Bachelor’s Degree in Won Buddhist Studies (offered only in select universities in South Korea). No prerequisites a required for students holding a Bachelor’s Degr in Won Buddhist Studies.
1. The second mode requires a Bachelor’s Degree any subject from an accredited school, and completion of a Preparatory Won Buddhist Studies (PWBS) course PWB500 Canon I
Ordination-track students must complete 18 credits of PWBS courses (outlined in the program description above) before complet the WBS program. Exceptions to these cas may be granted with the approval of the department chair a.
General track students who do not have a Bachelor degree in Won Buddhist Studies may also apply for enrollment in the WBS Master’s program, but they must complete a course, PWB500 Canon I in order enroll in certain master-level Won Buddhist courses
All applicants to this program must complete the admissions application and submit two letters of recommendation, a letter of intent, photo ID, official transcripts, and the application fee
Review Admissions Requirements on our website.
ADMISSIONS REQUIREMENTS & FINANCIAL AID
INTERNATIONAL APPLICANT REQUIREMENTS
Complete the same admissions requirements as domestic applicants.
Complete the TOEFL Internet-Based Test (IBT) with a minimum overall score of 80, a MyBest score of 79, OR complete the IELTS test with a minimum overall score of 6 5 We also accept the TOEFL Essentials test with a minimum band score of 8
Submit their undergraduate transcripts to World Education Services (www.wes.org) or an equivalent NACES-approved evaluation agency to determine U.S. equivalence.
Submit a completed application by June 1 for fall term and October 1 for spring term
More information is available on our International Students page.
ADMISSIONS
REQUIREMENTS & FINANCIAL AID
FINANCIAL AID
Financial Aid is offered in the form of scholarships and Federal Financial Aid. Federal Financial Aid is available for those who are enrolled at least halftime in the program and meet the eligibility requirements More information about Financial Resources is available on our website.
Tuition for Won Buddhist Studies programs is $453 per credit hour. Tuition for Preparatory Won Buddhist Studies courses is $283 per credit hour.
SONG DOK SCHOLARSHIP FUND
President Emeritus of the Won Institute, Dr. Yoon Suk Koh, established the Song Dok Scholarship in 2007 to honor his mother, Song Dok Kim The Song Dok Scholarship is specifically designed for current matriculated Won Buddhist ministers who wish to enroll in Won Institute courses in the WBS program, and for American students who are enrolled in PWBS courses and intend to matriculate into the WBS program. The scholarship is offered in the fall and spring term At the department chair’s discretion, the scholarship may be made available to American WBS students who are not eligible for other institutional assistance, and for American PWBS students who do not intend to matriculate into the WBS program. These funds are available to help cover the tuition of both full-time and part-time students.
