| Course Level: | Bachelor's | |
|---|---|---|
| Course Program: | Art & Humanities | |
| Course Duration: | 4 Years | |
| Course Language: | English | |
| Required Degree | Class 12th | |
| Course Level: | Master's | |
|---|---|---|
| Course Program: | Art & Humanities | |
| Course Duration: | 2 Years | |
| Course Language: | English | |
| Required Degree | 4 Year Bachelor’s Degree | |
Location: Boulder, Colorado, USA
Type: Private, Non-Profit University
Founded: 1974
Affiliation: Buddhist-Inspired, Liberal Arts University
Motto: Transform Yourself. Transform the World.
Specialization: Contemplative Education, Arts, Psychology, and Social Change
Website: N/A
Naropa University is a Buddhist-inspired liberal arts university known for its contemplative education approach, which integrates mindfulness, meditation, and academic learning. It was founded by Chögyam Trungpa Rinpoche, a Tibetan Buddhist teacher, and is named after the 11th-century Indian Buddhist sage Naropa.
Naropa offers undergraduate and graduate programs in the arts, psychology, education, and social change, focusing on personal transformation, creativity, and social justice. It is one of the few institutions in the U.S. that incorporates Eastern wisdom traditions with Western academic disciplines.
1. Undergraduate Programs (Bachelor’s Degrees)
BA in Contemplative Psychology
BA in Environmental Studies
BA in Creative Writing & Literature
BA in Interdisciplinary Studies
BA in Religious Studies
BA in Visual Arts
BA in Music
2. Graduate Programs (Master’s Degrees)
MA in Clinical Mental Health Counseling (Mindfulness-Based)
MFA in Creative Writing & Poetics
MA in Contemplative Education
MA in Religious Studies (Buddhist Studies & Yoga Studies)
MA in Ecopsychology
3. Certificate Programs
Certificate in Psychedelic-Assisted Therapy
Certificate in Mindfulness Instructor Training
Certificate in Authentic Leadership
Naropa emphasizes experiential learning, meditation practices, and social engagement, making it unique among U.S. universities.
Location: Boulder, Colorado, a vibrant city with a strong focus on wellness and sustainability.
Campuses: Three campuses – Arapahoe Campus, Nalanda Campus, and Paramita Campus.
Spiritual & Mindfulness Practices: Daily meditation sessions, yoga, and holistic wellness programs.
Student Organizations: Arts collectives, social justice groups, and contemplative practice clubs.
Sustainability Initiatives: Strong environmental focus with eco-friendly campus policies.
Admissions & Acceptance Rate
Acceptance Rate: ~100% (Open Admission Policy)
Application Requirements:
Online application & fee
Personal statement
Transcripts (GPA requirements vary by program)
Letters of recommendation (for some programs)
Interview (for specific graduate programs)
Tuition & Financial Aid
Undergraduate Tuition: ~$34,600 per year
Graduate Tuition: Varies by program (~$17,000-$26,000 per year)
Scholarships & Financial Aid Available
Naropa offers Bachelor of Arts (BA) degrees in various fields, emphasizing experiential learning, meditation, and creative expression.
Program Name |
Focus Areas |
|---|---|
|
BA in Contemplative Psychology |
Mindfulness-based psychology, neuroscience, transpersonal psychology |
|
BA in Environmental Studies |
Sustainability, climate justice, ecological restoration |
|
BA in Creative Writing & Literature |
Poetry, fiction, literary studies, storytelling |
|
BA in Interdisciplinary Studies |
Customizable degree blending multiple disciplines |
|
BA in Religious Studies |
Buddhist philosophy, comparative religions, contemplative practice |
|
BA in Visual Arts |
Painting, sculpture, mixed media, contemplative arts |
|
BA in Music |
Performance, composition, world music, sound healing |
Naropa’s master’s programs integrate contemplative education, social change, and deep self-exploration.
Program Name |
Focus Areas |
|---|---|
|
MA in Clinical Mental Health Counseling |
Mindfulness-based therapy, transpersonal psychology, somatic therapy |
|
MFA in Creative Writing & Poetics |
Poetry, prose, hybrid genres, experimental writing |
|
MA in Contemplative Education |
Mindfulness in teaching, alternative education methods |
|
MA in Religious Studies |
Buddhist studies, Hindu traditions, yoga studies |
|
MA in Ecopsychology |
Human-nature connection, environmental justice, sustainability |
Program Name |
Duration |
Tuition Fees Per Year (USD) (2024-2025 Estimate) |
|---|---|---|
|
BA in Contemplative Psychology |
4 Years |
$34,600 |
|
BA in Environmental Studies |
4 Years |
$34,600 |
|
BA in Creative Writing & Literature |
4 Years |
$34,600 |
|
BA in Interdisciplinary Studies |
4 Years |
$34,600 |
|
BA in Religious Studies |
4 Years |
$34,600 |
|
BA in Visual Arts |
4 Years |
$34,600 |
|
BA in Music |
4 Years |
$34,600 |
Program Name |
Duration |
Tuition Fees Per Year (USD) (2024-2025 Estimate) |
|---|---|---|
|
MA in Clinical Mental Health Counseling |
2.5 - 3 Years |
$26,000 |
|
MFA in Creative Writing & Poetics |
2 Years |
$17,000 |
|
MA in Contemplative Education |
2 Years |
$17,000 |
|
MA in Religious Studies (Buddhist & Yoga Studies) |
2 Years |
$17,000 |
|
MA in Ecopsychology |
2 Years |
$17,000 |
1. Why Choose Naropa University as an International Student?
Buddhist-Inspired Education – Integrates mindfulness, meditation, and academics.
Small Class Sizes – Personalized attention from faculty.
Cultural Diversity – Students from over 25 countries.
Experiential Learning – Hands-on training in psychology, arts, and social change.
Beautiful Campus – Located in Boulder, Colorado, a hub for wellness and sustainability.
2. Academic Programs Available for International Students
International students can enroll in bachelor’s, master’s, and certificate programs at Naropa.
Undergraduate (Bachelor’s) Programs
BA in Contemplative Psychology
BA in Environmental Studies
BA in Creative Writing & Literature
BA in Religious Studies
BA in Visual Arts
BA in Music
Graduate (Master’s) Programs
MA in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
MFA in Creative Writing & Poetics
MA in Religious Studies (Buddhist & Yoga Studies)
MA in Ecopsychology
MA in Contemplative Education
Certificate Programs
Mindfulness Instructor Training
Psychedelic-Assisted Therapy
Yoga Teacher Training
Authentic Leadership
1. Choose Your Program & Check Admission Requirements
Naropa offers admissions for:
Undergraduate (Bachelor’s) Programs
Graduate (Master’s) Programs
Certificate & Professional Training Programs
International Students (F-1 Visa Applicants)
Before applying, review the specific program requirements at.
2. Submit an Online Application
Apply Online through Naropa’s application portal: Apply Here
Application Fee:
Undergraduate: $50
Graduate: $60
Application Deadlines:
Semester |
Undergraduate Deadline |
Graduate Deadline |
|---|---|---|
|
Fall (August Start) |
May 1 |
(March – May) |
|
Spring (January Start) |
November 1 |
(October – December) |
International students should apply 3-6 months in advance to allow time for visa processing.
3. Submit Required Documents
A. Undergraduate (Bachelor’s) Admission Requirements
High School Transcripts (Minimum GPA 2.5 recommended)
Personal Statement (Essay on why you want to study at Naropa)
Letter of Recommendation (Optional but encouraged)
SAT/ACT Scores (Not Required)
English Proficiency Test (For International Students)
Copy of Passport (For International Students)
B. Graduate (Master’s) Admission Requirements
Bachelor’s Degree from an Accredited Institution (Minimum GPA 3.0 recommended)
Official College Transcripts
Two Letters of Recommendation
Personal Statement / Statement of Purpose
Resume or CV (For some programs)
Portfolio (For Creative Writing & Arts Programs)
English Proficiency Test (For International Students)
Some programs may require an interview as part of the selection process.
4. English Language Requirements (For International Students)
International students must provide proof of English proficiency:
Test |
Minimum Score Required |
|---|---|
|
TOEFL (iBT) |
79 |
|
IELTS |
6.5 |
|
Duolingo English Test |
105 |
Students who do not meet the English requirements may need to complete additional language courses before starting their program.
5. Financial Aid & Scholarships (For Eligible Students)
Complete the FAFSA (For U.S. Students Only).
Apply for Scholarships & Grants: Naropa offers merit-based scholarships ranging from $3,000 - $10,000 per year.
International students can apply for Naropa International Student Scholarships.
6. Student Visa Process (For International Students Only)
Once accepted, Naropa will issue a Form I-20 to help students apply for an F-1 Student Visa.
Steps to Obtain a U.S. Student Visa (F-1 Visa):
Receive Form I-20 from Naropa University
Pay SEVIS I-901 Fee ($350) online
Schedule a Visa Interview at the U.S. Embassy
Prepare Required Documents (I-20, Passport, Financial Proof, Visa Application Form DS-160)
Attend Visa Interview & Receive Visa
It’s recommended that international students apply for their visa at least 3-4 months before classes start.
7. Check Admission Status & Receive Acceptance Letter
Log in to the Naropa Application Portal to check your admission status.
Once accepted, you will receive an Official Admission Letter via email.
8. Complete Enrollment & Prepare for Classes
Set Up Naropa Student Email & Portal Access
Register for Courses (With Academic Advisor)
Submit Housing Application (For On-Campus Living)
Pay Tuition & Fees before the deadline
Attend New Student Orientation
9. Move to Campus & Start Classes!
Fall Semester Starts: Mid-August
Spring Semester Starts: Early January
Naropa University offers two main intakes per year:
Semester (Intake) |
Application Deadline (Undergraduate) |
Application Deadline (Graduate) |
Classes Begin |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Fall (August Start) |
May 1 |
(March – May) |
Mid-August |
|
Spring (January Start) |
November 1 |
(October – December) |
Early January |
International students should apply 3-6 months in advance to allow time for visa processing.
A. Undergraduate (Bachelor’s) Eligibility
High School Diploma or Equivalent (Recommended GPA: 2.5 or higher)
Personal Statement (Essay)
Letter of Recommendation (Optional but encouraged)
SAT/ACT Scores (Not Required)
English Proficiency Test (For International Students)
Copy of Passport (For International Students)
B. Graduate (Master’s) Eligibility
Bachelor’s Degree from an Accredited Institution (Recommended GPA: 3.0 or higher)
Official College Transcripts
Two Letters of Recommendation
Personal Statement / Statement of Purpose
Resume or CV (For some programs)
Portfolio (For Creative Writing & Arts Programs)
English Proficiency Test (For International Students)
Some graduate programs may require an interview as part of the selection process.
Scholarship Name |
Eligibility Criteria |
Award Amount (USD) |
Application Requirement |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Naropa Merit Scholarship |
Incoming undergraduate students with GPA of 3.5+ |
$3,000 - $10,000 per year |
Automatically considered upon admission |
|
Naropa International Student Scholarship |
Non-U.S. citizens with strong academic record |
$5,000 - $10,000 per year |
Automatically considered upon admission |
|
Contemplative Education Scholarship |
Students pursuing BA/MA in Contemplative Education |
$3,000 - $7,500 |
Scholarship application & essay required |
|
Creative Writing & Poetics Scholarship |
MFA students in Creative Writing & Poetics |
($2,000 - $5,000) |
Portfolio submission required |
|
Graduate Assistantships (GA Positions) |
Master’s students in any graduate program |
Tuition reduction or stipend |
Apply for GA positions after admission |
|
Diversity & Inclusion Scholarship |
Students from underrepresented backgrounds |
$2,500 - $7,500 per year |
Application & essay required |
|
Naropa Need-Based Grant |
Students with demonstrated financial need (FAFSA required for U.S. citizens) |
N/A |
FAFSA (For U.S. students) or Financial Need Statement (For international students) |
|
Mindfulness Leadership Scholarship |
Students involved in community service, activism, or leadership |
$3,000 - $5,000 |
Application & leadership experience statement required |
|
Alumni Referral Scholarship |
Recommended by a Naropa alumnus |
$1,000 - $2,000 |
Alumni referral form submission |
Facility |
Details |
|---|---|
|
Main Campus |
Arapahoe Campus (Boulder, Colorado) – Primary academic buildings, meditation spaces, and student services. |
|
Other Campuses |
Nalanda Campus (Arts & Performance), Paramita Campus (Graduate Studies). |
|
Library & Learning Commons |
Meditation-friendly study spaces, digital resources, and research support. |
|
Contemplative & Meditation Spaces |
Dedicated meditation halls, yoga studios, and Buddhist-inspired quiet zones. |
|
Student Center & Lounge Areas |
Community gathering spaces, student events, and wellness programs. |
|
Dining Facilities |
Organic, plant-based meal options available near campus. |
|
Outdoor & Recreational Facilities |
Yoga gardens, walking trails, and nearby hiking areas in the Rocky Mountains. |
|
Sustainability Initiatives |
Green campus programs, eco-friendly buildings, and zero-waste goals. |
Naropa University offers limited on-campus housing at the Snow Lion Residence Hall, a unique living space designed for community engagement and mindful living.
Accommodation Type |
Features |
Cost Per Semester (USD) |
Cost Per Year (USD) |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Snow Lion Residence Hall (Shared Room) |
Shared bedrooms, furnished, communal kitchen, meditation spaces |
$6,000 |
~$12,000 |
|
Snow Lion Residence Hall (Private Room) |
Private bedroom, shared living space, communal kitchen, Wi-Fi |
$7,000 |
~$14,000 |
Utilities (Electricity, Wi-Fi, Laundry) are included in the housing cost.
No traditional dining halls; students cook in shared kitchens or eat at nearby organic cafés.
1. Mindfulness & Contemplative Practices
Naropa University is a Buddhist-inspired institution, and mindfulness is an essential part of student life. Students can participate in daily meditation sessions, yoga classes, and contemplative workshops. Many classes begin with a moment of silence or guided meditation, allowing students to be fully present in their learning.
There are also dedicated meditation spaces across campus where students can practice mindfulness, engage in self-reflection, and develop emotional resilience.
2. Arts & Creativity
Naropa has a strong focus on the arts, poetry, and creative expression. The university frequently hosts:
Theater performances and spoken word poetry nights.
Art exhibitions featuring student and faculty work.
Creative writing workshops through the MFA in Creative Writing & Poetics program.
Live music events with performances by student musicians and local artists.
For students passionate about writing, The Jack Kerouac School of Disembodied Poetics (founded by Allen Ginsberg and Anne Waldman) is a hub for literary and poetic innovation.
3. Outdoor & Recreational Activities
Boulder, Colorado, is known for its outdoor beauty and adventure opportunities. Students at Naropa frequently enjoy:
Hiking and biking in the nearby Rocky Mountains.
Outdoor yoga and mindfulness retreats.
Camping and nature-based retreats organized by the university.
Eco-friendly transportation, with many students biking around town.
Naropa’s strong ecopsychology and environmental studies programs encourage students to connect deeply with nature, promoting sustainability and environmental activism.
4. Student Organizations & Clubs
Students at Naropa are encouraged to participate in various student-led organizations that align with their passions. Some popular groups include:
Social Justice & Activism Groups – Focused on human rights, environmental justice, and inclusivity.
Mindfulness & Spirituality Clubs – Engaging in meditation, contemplative practices, and interfaith dialogues.
Theater & Performing Arts Groups – Organizing plays, dance performances, and improv nights.
Sustainability & Environmental Groups – Working on eco-friendly projects and climate activism.
If a student has a unique interest, they are encouraged to start their own club with university support.
5. Community & Inclusivity
Naropa values diversity, inclusivity, and self-expression. Students come from various cultural, religious, and artistic backgrounds, creating a welcoming and open-minded atmosphere.
The university regularly hosts:
Cultural awareness events and celebrations.
Guest lectures on social change, activism, and spirituality.
Support groups for LGBTQ+ students, international students, and students of color.
The Office of Diversity & Inclusion ensures that all students feel supported, respected, and valued in the Naropa community.
6. Housing & Residential Life
Most students live off-campus, but Naropa offers on-campus housing at Snow Lion Residence Hall. This unique residence focuses on community living, shared meals, and contemplative practice. There are no traditional dining halls, so students often cook together in shared kitchens or eat at nearby organic cafés.
For students who prefer off-campus housing, Boulder offers many apartment and shared housing options, with many students living together in mindful, artistic, and environmentally conscious communities.
7. Career Development & Internships
Naropa provides career counseling, internship opportunities, and job placement assistance. Many students gain internships in mental health, social work, environmental organizations, and creative arts.
The Naropa Career Services Office helps students with:
Resume building and job interview preparation.
Finding internships and community service projects.
Graduate school preparation for students pursuing advanced degrees.
Graduates from Naropa often pursue careers in counseling, education, the arts, activism, and holistic wellness fields.
8. Events & Annual Traditions
Naropa hosts numerous annual events that bring students together to celebrate creativity, spirituality, and community:
The Summer Writing Program – A literary gathering featuring renowned writers and poets.
Earth Justice Day – Focused on sustainability and climate action.
Naropa Arts Festival – Showcasing student performances, music, and visual arts.
Mindfulness Retreats – Off-campus experiences for deep reflection and relaxation.
These events provide opportunities for students to connect, grow, and express themselves in meaningful ways.
1. Career Services & Job Placement Assistance
The Naropa Career & Life Development Office provides career guidance, internship support, and networking opportunities to help students transition into meaningful professions.
Career Services Offered:
Resume & Cover Letter Assistance – Helps students craft professional job applications.
Mock Interviews & Career Counseling – One-on-one guidance on career paths.
Internship & Job Listings – Connection with employers in relevant fields.
Networking Events & Career Fairs – Opportunities to meet potential employers.
Entrepreneurial & Freelance Support – Encouragement for students starting their own businesses.
2. Employment & Career Opportunities for Naropa Graduates
Naropa’s graduates follow non-traditional career paths that align with their creative, contemplative, and social justice-focused education.
A. Common Career Fields for Naropa Graduates
Mental Health & Counseling – Many graduates work as therapists, counselors, and mindfulness coaches.
Education & Mindfulness-Based Teaching – Jobs in alternative schools, universities, and meditation centers.
Creative Arts & Writing – Many Naropa graduates become writers, poets, filmmakers, and artists.
Environmental & Sustainability Careers – Work in nonprofits, ecological restoration, and sustainable development.
Social Work & Activism – Careers in human rights, advocacy, and social justice organizations.
Holistic Health & Wellness – Careers in yoga therapy, meditation coaching, and alternative healing.
3. Internship & Work-Study Programs
Naropa encourages hands-on learning through internships and community-based projects. Many students gain real-world experience while studying through:
On-Campus Jobs – Work-study opportunities in university departments.
Off-Campus Internships – With mental health clinics, nonprofits, environmental groups, and wellness centers.
Social Impact & Community Service Internships – Partnering with local and global organizations for change-making projects.
4. Graduate Employment & Salary Expectations
Salary varies based on field of study, experience, and location. Naropa’s graduates are often self-employed, work in non-profits, or pursue socially conscious careers.
Career Field |
Average Salary (USD per Year) |
|---|---|
|
Mental Health & Counseling |
$45,000 - $75,000 |
|
Education & Mindfulness Teaching |
$40,000 - $60,000 |
|
Creative Writing & Arts |
$35,000 - $65,000 |
|
Social Work & Activism |
$40,000 - $55,000 |
|
Environmental & Sustainability Careers |
$45,000 - $70,000 |
|
Yoga, Meditation, & Wellness Coaching |
$40,000 - $80,000+ (self-employed potential) |
Freelance artists, therapists, and wellness practitioners may earn more based on experience and client base.
5. Notable Employers Hiring Naropa Graduates
Graduates from Naropa University find opportunities in a variety of mission-driven organizations, creative industries, and wellness fields. Some well-known employers include:
Mental Health & Counseling Centers – Mindful Therapy Group, Naropa Community Counseling, Holistic Healing Centers.
Publishing & Writing – Poetry Foundation, independent book publishers, freelance writing careers.
Environmental & Sustainability Groups – Sierra Club, Greenpeace, National Parks Services.
Education & Social Work Organizations – Alternative schools, universities, nonprofit education centers.
Mindfulness & Wellness Retreats – Yoga studios, meditation centers, holistic healing businesses.
6. Alumni Success & Entrepreneurship
Many Naropa graduates start their own businesses, wellness centers, or artistic ventures. Some alumni have built successful careers as:
Independent artists, filmmakers, and poets.
Yoga instructors, mindfulness coaches, and holistic therapists.
Environmental activists and nonprofit founders.
Authors, educators, and workshop leaders.
Acceptance Rate: 100% (Open Admission Policy)
Naropa University has a high acceptance rate because it follows an inclusive and holistic admissions process. The university is committed to providing education to students who align with its values of mindfulness, creativity, and social change.
No Competitive Admission Process – Naropa does not reject students based on grades alone.
Personalized Review – Admissions decisions are based on academic background, personal statement, and interest in contemplative education.
Flexible Entry Requirements – Standardized test scores (SAT/ACT) are not required.
Encourages Diverse Backgrounds – Students from various educational, spiritual, and artistic backgrounds are welcome.
Undergraduate (Bachelor’s) Admission
High school diploma or equivalent (Recommended GPA: 2.5 or higher)
Personal statement (essay explaining your interest in Naropa’s unique education)
Letter of recommendation (optional but encouraged)
SAT/ACT scores not required
Graduate (Master’s) Admission
Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution (Recommended GPA: 3.0 or higher)
Two letters of recommendation
Personal statement / Statement of Purpose
Resume or CV (for some programs)
Portfolio (for creative programs like MFA in Writing or Arts)
International Students
English Proficiency Test (TOEFL: 79, IELTS: 6.5, Duolingo: 105)
Proof of financial support (for visa processing)
Copy of passport
Naropa University is located in Boulder, Colorado, USA, a vibrant city known for its natural beauty, sustainability initiatives, and progressive culture. The university has three campuses in Boulder, each serving different academic programs and student activities.
Address: 2130 Arapahoe Avenue, Boulder, CO 80302, USA
Features:
Administrative offices & main academic buildings
Meditation halls & contemplative practice spaces
Allen Ginsberg Library (research & study resources)
Student center & community gathering areas
Programs Offered:
Undergraduate (BA) programs
Graduate (MA) programs
Creative Writing, Psychology, and Environmental Studies
