The Naropa Institute

Founded in 1974, The Naropa Institute, now known as Naropa University, is a private university located in Boulder, Colorado, United States. The university is dedicated to combining academic rigor with contemplative practice, offering an education that emphasizes the integration of mind, body, and spirit. Naropa's unique approach to education has made it a leading institution in the fields of contemplative education, psychology, and the arts.

Motto, Vision, and Mission

Naropa's motto, "Transform Yourself, Transform the World," reflects its commitment to fostering personal and societal transformation through education. The university envisions a world where individuals are deeply connected to their own wisdom and compassion, and where education is based on contemplative practice, academic excellence, and social engagement. Naropa's mission is to inspire and educate students in the liberal arts and professional disciplines, preparing them to fulfill their unique roles in society with an emphasis on contemplative practice and social justice.

Chancellor and Leadership

The current chancellor of Naropa University is Dr. Charles G. Lief. Under his leadership, the university continues to expand its offerings and promote its core values. Dr. Lief is dedicated to maintaining Naropa's commitment to providing an education that integrates academic, contemplative, and artistic disciplines.

History and Current Progress

The Naropa Institute was established by Chögyam Trungpa Rinpoche, a Tibetan Buddhist teacher, and his students. It was the first Buddhist-inspired university in the Western world. Naropa's founding was rooted in a vision of education that honored multiple ways of knowing and encouraged the development of wisdom and compassion in students. Over the years, Naropa has grown and gained recognition for its unique approach to education.

Currently, Naropa University offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate degree programs in various fields, including Contemplative Psychology, Creative Writing, Visual Arts, Environmental Studies, Peace Studies, Religious Studies, and more. These programs provide students with an opportunity to integrate contemplative practice into their academic pursuits, fostering personal and intellectual growth.

Courses and Costs

Naropa University offers over 40 undergraduate and graduate degree programs. Some popular courses include:

• Contemplative Psychology
• Religious Studies
• Ecopsychology
• Writing & Poetics
• Visual Arts
• Somatic Counseling Psychology
• Transpersonal Art Therapy
• Peace Studies
• Resilient Leadership

The cost of tuition at Naropa University varies depending on the program and degree level. It is recommended to visit the official Naropa University website for detailed and up-to-date information on tuition fees and financial aid options.

Scholarships

Naropa University offers a range of scholarships to support students in their educational journey. Scholarships are available based on various criteria, including academic merit, financial need, artistic achievements, and community engagement. Prospective students are encouraged to explore the available scholarships and application requirements on the university's website.

Faculty and Student Body

Naropa University is home to a diverse and accomplished faculty who are experts in their respective fields. The faculty members are not just educators but also practitioners who bring their real-world experiences to the classroom, enriching the learning environment for the students.

The student body at Naropa is filled with curious, compassionate, and creative individuals who are passionate about exploring their own potential and making a positive impact in the world. Students are encouraged to engage in personal and spiritual growth along with their academic pursuits, fostering a holistic educational experience.

Location and Contact Information

The Naropa Institute is located in Boulder, Colorado, a city known for its vibrant arts scene, natural beauty, and progressive mindset. The address for the university is:

For further information, inquiries, or to get in touch with specific departments or individuals, you can reach Naropa University through their website or directly via phone at (303) 444-0202.

Conclusion

The Naropa Institute, now Naropa University, offers a truly unique and transformative educational experience, combining academic excellence with contemplative practice, creativity, and social engagement. With its diverse range of programs, dedicated faculty, and a supportive community, Naropa continues to nurture and inspire individuals to become compassionate leaders and change-makers in our rapidly evolving world.