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M-A-BUDDHIST-STUDIES in General at University of Jammu
Jammu, Jammu and Kashmir
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About the Specialization
What is General at University of Jammu Jammu?
This M.A. Buddhist Studies program at the University of Jammu focuses on a comprehensive understanding of Buddhist philosophy, history, and culture. Rooted deeply in India, the birthplace of Buddhism, the program explores ancient texts, diverse schools of thought, and its socio-cultural impact. It provides a unique academic journey into one of the world''''s most influential spiritual and philosophical traditions.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for humanities graduates, individuals with an interest in philosophy, religion, or history, and those seeking a deeper spiritual and academic understanding of Buddhism. It attracts fresh graduates eager to explore ancient Indian wisdom and working professionals in education or cultural heritage fields looking to specialize.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can pursue careers in academia, research, cultural preservation, and education, often within universities, think tanks, or NGOs focused on peace and interfaith dialogue. Opportunities include teaching, museum curation, archival work, or further doctoral research, contributing to a deeper understanding of ancient Indian heritage.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Pali and Sanskrit Fundamentals- (Semester 1-2)
Dedicate time daily to study Pali and Sanskrit grammar, vocabulary, and basic textual analysis. Utilize online resources, dictionaries, and engage in peer-to-peer learning to build a strong foundation, crucial for understanding primary Buddhist texts.
Tools & Resources
Online Pali/Sanskrit dictionaries (e.g., PTS dictionary), Grammar guides, Basic reading exercises, Departmental faculty for guidance
Career Connection
Essential for research, translation, and academic careers in Buddhist studies, enabling direct engagement with original source material.
Engage with Early Buddhist Philosophy- (Semester 1-2)
Actively participate in lectures and discussions on core concepts like the Four Noble Truths, Eightfold Path, and Dependent Origination. Read foundational texts (e.g., Dhammapada, Sutta Pitaka excerpts) and write reflective essays to deepen comprehension.
Tools & Resources
Canonical texts (available online or in translations), Academic journals focusing on early Buddhism, Departmental seminars
Career Connection
Develops critical thinking and analytical skills, vital for academic roles, content creation, and interfaith dialogue.
Explore Buddhist Art and Heritage Sites- (Semester 1-2)
Organize virtual tours or, if possible, local visits to Buddhist art exhibitions, museums, or historical sites (e.g., Sanchi, Bodh Gaya - virtually if not physically). Document observations and connect them to academic learning, enhancing appreciation for cultural heritage.
Tools & Resources
Google Arts & Culture, Virtual reality tours of Indian heritage sites, Art history books, Local museums
Career Connection
Prepares students for roles in museum curation, cultural tourism, heritage management, and archaeological research.
Intermediate Stage
Engage with Contemporary Buddhist Debates- (Semester 3)
Explore modern applications of Buddhist thought, such as engaged Buddhism, environmental ethics, and interfaith dialogue. Actively participate in discussions, write opinion pieces, and seek out guest lectures or workshops related to these contemporary issues.
Tools & Resources
Books and articles by modern Buddhist thinkers (e.g., Thich Nhat Hanh, Dalai Lama), Relevant academic journals, Online forums on engaged Buddhism
Career Connection
Prepares for roles in NGOs, interfaith organizations, peace studies, and advocacy groups, applying Buddhist principles to real-world challenges.
Deepen Research Methodology Application- (Semester 3)
Apply learned research methodologies to design a preliminary study or project proposal beyond the required dissertation. Focus on refining literature review, hypothesis formulation, and choosing appropriate research tools, laying groundwork for the final dissertation.
Tools & Resources
University research guide, Statistical software (if applicable, for survey data), Academic writing workshops
Career Connection
Essential for future academic pursuits (M.Phil/Ph.D.), research positions, and developing strong analytical skills for any professional field.
Explore Elective Specializations- (Semester 3)
Delve deeply into the chosen elective (Buddhist Psychology or Buddhist Ethics). Beyond coursework, read additional scholarly works, attend related virtual conferences, and consider how this specialization aligns with your career interests.
Tools & Resources
Specialized books and journals for the chosen elective, Online courses or lectures related to Buddhist psychology/ethics, Experts in the field
Career Connection
Builds expertise in a niche area, making you a more attractive candidate for specialized roles in counseling, ethical consulting, or specific research projects.
Advanced Stage
Finalize and Present Dissertation- (Semester 4)
Dedicate significant time to completing the dissertation, ensuring rigorous research, clear argumentation, and adherence to academic standards. Practice presenting findings effectively, seeking feedback from peers and supervisors.
Tools & Resources
Departmental guidelines for dissertation writing, Academic style guides, Presentation software, Mock presentation sessions
Career Connection
The dissertation is a capstone project demonstrating independent research capability, critical for academic positions, research roles, and Ph.D. admissions.
Network and Explore Post-MA Opportunities- (Semester 4)
Attend departmental events, guest lectures, and academic conferences. Connect with faculty, alumni, and scholars in the field to explore potential career paths, job openings, or Ph.D. programs. Prepare your CV and cover letter.
Tools & Resources
LinkedIn, University career services, Academic conference websites, Professional associations in Buddhist studies
Career Connection
Directly facilitates job placement, research fellowships, or admission to advanced degree programs by leveraging professional connections and prepared application materials.
Develop Pedagogy Skills- (Semester 4)
If interested in academia, seek opportunities to assist professors (e.g., grading, leading discussion groups), prepare mini-lectures on topics, or mentor junior students. This builds teaching experience and confidence.
Tools & Resources
University''''s teaching assistant programs (if available), Departmental faculty, Pedagogical resources
Career Connection
Essential for aspiring lecturers, researchers who need to present their work, and educators in various settings, enhancing communication and leadership skills.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- B.A. or B.Sc. or B.Com. or B.B.A. or B.C.A. (with 10+2+3 pattern) with 40% aggregate marks (36% for SC/ST) or equivalent examination recognized by the University of Jammu.
Duration: 4 semesters / 2 years
Credits: 80 Credits
Assessment: Internal: 20%, External: 80%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BOS-C-101 | Evolution of Buddhist Thought | Core | 4 | Origin and development of Buddhist thought, Four Noble Truths, Eightfold Path, Kamma and Rebirth, Dependent Origination, Early Buddhist Schools |
| BOS-C-102 | Pali Language and Literature | Core | 4 | Origin and development of Pali, Basic Pali grammar, Important Pali texts (Tipitaka, Milindapanho), Literary styles, Contribution to Buddhist studies |
| BOS-C-103 | History of Buddhism in India (upto 7th century A.D.) | Core | 4 | Pre-Buddhist India, Rise of Buddhism, Patronage of Mauryas and Guptas, Major Buddhist sites, Decline of Buddhism |
| BOS-C-104 | Buddhist Logic and Epistemology | Core | 4 | Nature of Buddhist logic, Perception (Pratyaksha), Inference (Anumana), Doctrine of Momentariness, Apoha theory, Dignaga and Dharmakirti |
| BOS-C-105 | Buddhist Art and Architecture | Core | 4 | Origin and development, Stupas, Chaityas, Viharas, Gandhara art, Mathura art, Sarnath art, Iconography of Buddha and Bodhisattvas |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BOS-C-201 | Abhidhamma Philosophy | Core | 4 | Nature of Abhidhamma, Mind and Mental Factors (Citta, Cetasikas), Matter (Rupa), Nirvana, Conditioned and Unconditioned states, Realms of existence |
| BOS-C-202 | Sanskrit Buddhist Literature | Core | 4 | Origin and development of Buddhist Sanskrit, Important texts (Mahayana Sutras, Avadanas, Jatakas), Nagarjuna, Asanga, Vasubandhu |
| BOS-C-203 | History of Buddhism in India (from 8th century A.D. to present) | Core | 4 | Pala period, Rise of Vajrayana, Buddhist universities (Nalanda, Vikramshila), Muslim invasions, Revival of Buddhism in modern India |
| BOS-C-204 | History of Buddhism in Jammu and Kashmir and Himachal Pradesh | Core | 4 | Early Buddhist centers, Ladakh, Kashmir, Spiti, Kinnaur, Rinchen Tsangpo, Buddhist monasteries and traditions |
| BOS-C-205 | Buddhist Education | Core | 4 | Aims and ideals of Buddhist education, Methods of teaching, Gurukula system, Monastic education, Role of education in moral development |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BOS-C-301 | Mahayana Buddhism | Core | 4 | Origin and development of Mahayana, Bodhisattva ideal, Sunyata (Emptiness), Karuna (Compassion), Prajnaparamita literature, Madhyamaka and Yogacara schools |
| BOS-C-302 | Contemporary Buddhist Thought | Core | 4 | Engaged Buddhism, Social justice, Environmental ethics, Interfaith dialogue, Role of Buddhism in modern society, Dalai Lama''''s philosophy |
| BOS-C-303 | Research Methodology | Core | 4 | Nature and scope of research, Types of research, Research design, Data collection methods, Data analysis, Report writing, Ethics in research |
| BOS-C-304 | Dissertation/Project | Core | 4 | Research proposal, Literature review, Data collection, Analysis, Writing and presentation of a research project |
| BOS-E-305 | Buddhist Psychology / Buddhist Ethics | Elective | 4 | Buddhist Psychology: Mind and consciousness, Mental states, Stress and suffering, Meditation, Vipassana, Mindfulness, Buddhist Ethics: Precepts, Karuna, Metta, Right livelihood, Social responsibility, Environmental ethics, Non-violence |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BOS-C-401 | Vajrayana Buddhism | Core | 4 | Origin and development of Vajrayana, Tantric practices, Mantras, Mandalas, Mudras, Guru-disciple relationship, Kalachakra Tantra |
| BOS-C-402 | Buddhist Meditation | Core | 4 | Samatha (Tranquility) meditation, Vipassana (Insight) meditation, Mindfulness, Breath awareness, Loving-kindness meditation, Stages of meditation |
| BOS-C-403 | Indian Philosophy and Buddhism | Core | 4 | Relationship between Buddhism and other Indian philosophical systems (Nyaya, Vaisheshika, Samkhya, Yoga, Mimamsa, Vedanta, Jainism, Charvaka), Similarities and differences |
| BOS-C-404 | History of Buddhism in South East Asian Countries | Core | 4 | Spread of Buddhism in Sri Lanka, Myanmar, Thailand, Cambodia, Laos, Indonesia, Influence on culture and society, Theravada traditions |
| BOS-E-405 | Buddhist Art and Aesthetics (Advanced) / Buddhist Contribution to World Culture | Elective | 4 | Buddhist Art and Aesthetics (Advanced): Symbolism in Buddhist art, Iconography, Murals, Frescoes, Cave architecture (Ajanta, Ellora), Art patronage, Buddhist Contribution to World Culture: Spread of Buddhist ideas, Science, Medicine, Literature, Philosophy, Yoga, Influence on Western thought |
