Naropa University

For more than 70 years, Naropa University in Boulder, Colorado, has been a leader in alternative education, offering an educational experience that is both scholastic and grounded in the practice of Buddhist meditation.

Naropa awards bachelor’s and master’s degrees. Academics at the undergraduate level include:

• Contemplative Psychology
• Environmental Studies
• Music
• Peace Studies
• Visual Arts
• Writing and Literature

Graduate programs are available in such fields as:

• Art Therapy
• Creative Writing
• Psychology
• Religious Studies
• Theatre Arts

All classes emphasize the importance of the Buddhist principle of mindfulness. Even a student majoring in Early Childhood Education is called upon to incorporate this practice as a way to improve their teaching skills. Naropa also requires students take a certain number of courses in the field of contemplative arts, also known as meditation.

Meditation and contemplation are also encouraged outside of class and, to facilitate this meditation, sessions are offered as part of Naropa’s student life.

Other student activities include poetry readings, film festivals, dance and theatre productions and art exhibits.

A completed application, transcripts, letters of recommendation and three essays are required for admission to Naropa University. ACT or SAT scores are optional.

Naropa participates in federal financial aid programs, awarding federal grants, loans and work-study awards. These sources of aid are offered based on financial need and require submission of a FAFSA.

Naropa also awards institutional scholarships to students who have both a strong financial need and a record of strong academic performance. Most financial aid packages offer a combination of different aid sources. Veteran’s benefits are also available.