Master in Post Master Buddhist Spiritual Care

Tuition is 3,795 USD per year.

This programme offers a unique pathway in Europe, standing as the only government-recognized and accredited training for Buddhist spiritual caregivers. Based at the Buddhist Seminary at VU Amsterdam, it prepares professionals to serve in diverse and high-stakes environments—including hospitals, elderly care, prisons, and the military—where they act as sources of support during crises and facilitate guidance on existential questions.

Students develop a specialized skill set grounded in Buddhist teachings, combined with the capacity to operate effectively within trans-denominational and interreligious contexts. The curriculum emphasizes the ability to provide compassionate care without imposing personal beliefs, fostering an open mind and advanced communication skills. This programme is designed for those who already possess an academic background and wish to refine their ability to provide spiritual care in demanding, real-world settings.

Official Buddhist Endorsement

Participants in this post-master programme have the opportunity to qualify for official endorsement—known as "sending"—by the state-recognized Buddhist community (BZI), provided they meet the specific criteria set by the Buddhist Sending Authority. With international connections to chaplaincy programmes in Asia and the United States, the seminary provides a global perspective on the evolving role of the Buddhist chaplain.

Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam is a research-led university situated in the heart of Amsterdam, founded in 1880 and welcoming more than 31,700 students including a large international cohort. Its long history combines academic tradition with modern interdisciplinary teaching across social sciences, humanities, law, business, and sciences. English-taught bachelor and master programs make it accessible to international applicants seeking a high-quality European education in a dynamic urban setting.

The university emphasizes research excellence and societal impact, with numerous institutes and centers that connect students to real-world challenges. Small-group teaching, problem-based learning options, and close supervision at graduate level support academic growth. International students can take advantage of dedicated services for visa advice, housing support, language courses, and career guidance that ease transition and enhance employability in the Netherlands and beyond.

Student life blends campus facilities with Amsterdam cultural vitality, including museums, startups, and multinational companies that offer internships and networking. Affordable public transport and a bicycle-friendly environment make daily life straightforward while campus clubs and student associations help newcomers build a community. Prospective international students should research program entry requirements early, prepare application documents and funding plans, and reach out to the international office to plan arrival and accommodation.