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Featured Courses

Philosophy of Nonviolence

An examination of the concept of nonviolence, its evolution and practice in various cultures and traditions ... Read More

Woman doing yoga in Vishnu temple in Hampi, India

Applied Vedic Sciences Basic

The sciences which found application in action and thought are the enlisted as the streams of electives in this course ... Read More

Vyākaraṇa

Pāṇini’s Aṣṭādhyāyī, a monumental work in the sūtra format (aphorisms) is much beyond a grammar for the Sanskrit language. The ... Read More

The Vision of the Bhagavad-Gītā

Distilled from the Upaniṣad, the Śrīmad Bhagavad-Gītā is a fundamental text of Hindu Dharma from which many spiritual traditions have ... Read More

Anticolonialism and Postcolonialism

This course introduces the theories of various anticolonial and postcolonial writers in order to create a framework for a critical ... Read More

The Foundation of Vedānta

Vedānta also known as the Upanishads, found at the end of all four Vedas, reveal the goal and purpose of ... Read More

The Mahābhārata I & II

Aimed at intermediate and advanced students, this course provides a comprehensive overview of Mahābhārata scholarship, including textual and historical issues ... Read More

Critical issues in Hindu Studies

This course outlines the critical issues involved in the European understanding of Hindus and India, developed within the framework of ... Read More

The Yoga SŪTRAS of PATAÑJALI

The Yoga SŪTRAS of PATAÑJALI is a foundational text for understanding the world of Yoga. Using this text, the course will ... Read More

Hindu Conflict Resolution

An exploration of Hindu thought, particularly those elements which are relevant from a conflict resolution perspective ... Read More

FAQ

What kind of students’ study at the Hindu University of America?

Students of the Hindu University of America are typically serious (i.e. not casual) and find themselves committed to authentic learning i.e. they wish to go beyond merely preparing for a safe and secure career or having one already. They wish to enter a subject area deeply and are willing to give the time and focus necessary to develop competence and mastery in a new and possibly an “alternate” domain of knowledge. They generally fall into the following categories:

Undergraduate students who are keenly interested in earning a graduate degree (i.e. MA and/or Ph.D.) in Hindu studies from an authentic Hindu institution, preparing themselves for service, leadership and global engagement within a Hindu context
People seeking personal enrichment and professional advancement, who wish to transcend the competitive rat race, and develop a spiritually centered lifestyle, based both in Hindu thought and other equivalent paradigms
Ethnic and Cultural Hindus who are already professionally settled but are seeking a deeper understanding of their cultural roots and heritage. They may wish to penetrate the fog of misrepresentation and mis-portrayal of Hinduism arising from the colonial era in contemporary mainstream discourse and develop unmediated access the source texts and traditions of Sanatana Dharma
Spiritual but not Religious people, who are attracted to the systems of thought, practices, and philosophy that can be generally categorized as New Age Spiritual, who wish to examine their authentic ancient Hindu roots without risk of having to become Hindu in the process
Culturally Non-Hindu people who are attracted to Hindu thought, culture, philosophy and systems of knowledge, and wish to develop a more thorough foundation which may help them in their own careers and professions e.g. as Yoga teachers, Meditation teachers, Counsellors, Therapists, Chaplains, Ayurveda practitioners, Life-Coaches and so on.

People who wish to develop alternate professional careers (in addition to the one they already have), in fields such as Yoga, Ayurveda, Writing and Media, Leadership and Management in Hindu contexts, Jyotisha, Vaastu, Coaching, Counselling, Chaplaincy and so on.

Is Hindu University of America a religious educational institution?

The Hindu University of America is authorized by the State of Florida as a religious institution that is exempt from State oversight. For more information about State exemption in Florida, please refer to the following excerpt from the 2018 Florida State – Statutes, Chapter 1005 pertaining to Non-Public Post-Secondary Education: General Provisions: 1005.06: Institutions not under the jurisdiction or purview of the Commission for Independent Education. You may Click Here to directly access the Florida Statutes: http://www.leg.state.fl.us/statutes/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&URL=1000-1099/1005/1005.html

Do I have to be a Hindu to study at the Hindu University of America?

No. Hindu University of America welcomes students from all backgrounds, cultures and ethnicity, and does not discriminate against any person on the basis of race, color, creed, religion, national or ethnic origin, age, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, marital or parental status, disability, social status and/or income level, political views or military service. We invite all who wish to learn, who enjoy the pursuit of knowledge, and who are willing to give the time and focus necessary for higher and deeper learning

Does the Hindu University of America have an evangelical purpose?

Hinduism itself does not have an evangelical purpose. It has been one of the great non-proselytizing traditions of the world. In keeping with that heritage, Hindu University of America also does not have an evangelical purpose. The Hindu University of America is committed to the purpose of higher knowledge, the evolution of human consciousness and the emergence of enlightenment (i.e. in the sense of Self-knowledge) and whatever enrichment that may bring to the human experience. It is not committed to a discourse of power and dominance masquerading as a discourse in knowledge

How is studying at HUA different from going to my local Temple or Guru?

At Hindu University of America, you can go much deeper, go beyond basic and cursory understanding, and engage in deep study of subject. Whether you wish to understand a specific Sanskrit text in all of its rich, multi-faceted dimensions, or whether you want to understand the Euro-centric Orientalist ideas that gave rise to much of the contemporary discourse on Hinduism, it is a place for a higher and deeper, and more sustained pursuit of knowledge. It is also a place, where you develop yourself in writing, in critiquing, in constructing arguments and debates, in research, in articulating perspectives and hypotheses, so that what you say for the rest of your lives, will come from a place of deep learning and reason. Thus the education you receive at Hindu University of America takes you well beyond being a passive recipient of information, and challenges you to engage responsibly and intelligently on the global stage. In the Hindu tradition, we have a higher knowledge that is based on Shruti-Bhashya and a more colloquial access to the same knowledge through the Katha-Pravachan traditions. Hindu University of America is re-imagining an institution of higher learning, on the lines of Nalanda and Takshashila as they once existed, but at the same time, as an institution that is contemporary, relevant and appropriate to the times that we live in.

What career pathways exist for students who graduate from HUA?

Hindu University of America aims to prepare students for service, leadership and global engagement. Recognizing that the field of Hindu studies is itself undeveloped today, and career pathways are as yet still emerging, Hindu University of America nevertheless offers specific developmental pathways that lead to alternate or supplementary vocations, and to mainstream jobs and vocations. Here are some of the roles that a student who has earned a graduate degree in Hindu studies may aspire towards.

Education - Teaching / Community Education
Academics - Research / Writing / Publication
Thinkers - Writing / Speaking / Being a Public Intellectual
Counseling – Spiritual mentorship / Life coaching / Therapy
Chaplaincy – Counseling and Healing in Hindu contexts
Leadership – Spiritually centered Leadership
Management – Hindu Temple Administration / Non-Profit management
Social Work - Community Service / Health / Wellness / Yoga / Ayurveda
Consulting - Jyotisha and Vaastu Consultancy
Media – Contemporary media engagement and mass Communication
Religious Service – Priests, performance of rituals

Do I have to be a resident of the HUA campus during my program of study?

No. Students of the Hindu University of America can earn their degrees and certificates entirely through a distance education model. Residency requirements will be handled locally in affiliated centers and classrooms. In the future, as the Hindu University of America acquires a respectable campus, there may be new models of engagement and hybrid modes of learning. Watch this space for future developments.

Is Hindu University of America accredited?

For now, Hindu University of America is not accredited. It however offers a legitimate degree authorized by the State of Florida. It is the University Administration’s intention to secure accreditation in three stages, with three different agencies:

The International Accreditation Council for Dharma Schools and Colleges (iacdsc.org)
The Distance Education Accreditation Commission (deac.org)
The Southern Association of Schools and Colleges (http://www.sacscoc.org)

Does Hindu University of America provide financial assistance?

Yes. For Graduate level students, a limited number of student assistantships are available. Students may apply for partial or full scholarships, and teaching assistantships, as well as research fellowships. The financial assistance provided by the Hindu University of America is dependent on the Donor community making available scholarships and fellowships specifically for students. We aspire to build up capacity in this area, to support increasing numbers of students in the future.

What study options do I have for continuing education at HUA?

Continuing Education is one of the most important divisions of the Hindu University of America. In this model of engagement, you are gaining education for life, and not just to make a living. Students in this division are learning because they love to learn, and not because they must pass some exam or gain some qualification. Most students in this division are simply taking one or more courses at a time in an a la carte mode, sampling the offerings from the University. Some students are focusing on an area of study and working towards a certificate. But in all cases, they are not working towards a degree. The Hindu University of America offers a great variety of course options, and streams of study. And we are committed to continuing to add more and more variety of courses in this division. In this mode of learning, you can study at your own pace, taking as much load or as little as you wish.

What value does the continuing education I get from HUA provide me in my life?

Whether you are interested in self-discovery, conscious living, being purpose driven, critical thought, holistic living, making a difference, writing and the media, the creative and performing arts, adopting lifestyle changes with yoga and Ayurveda, enhancing your careers in teaching and the academia, honing your leadership and management skills from a spiritual context, being of service and making a unique contribution, or simply experiencing joy and harmony in life, the Continuing Education division offers a range of options:

For the student who is graduating from casual learning to a slightly more serious engagement with a structured course over the course of a full quarter of 11 weeks.
For the student who wishes to make learning a consistent habit in their lives – going from one area to another, but with little intention to obtain a degree
For the student who wishes to develop some level of depth of knowledge in an area of study, and obtain a certificate
For the student who simply wishes to enrich their personal lives, through fruitful engagement with the variety of areas of knowledge and practice within the Hindu world
For the student who is making important transitions in life, and transforming their spiritual, health and lifestyle choices

Will the certificates I earn from HUA, help me in my career?

Will the continuing education hours count towards professional certification?

Can I take one course at a time as a stand-alone course?

Can individual continuing education courses be applied towards a Certificate program?

Can individual continuing education courses be applied towards a Graduate degree?

Yes, in most cases. The exception being that you should have taken your continuing education courses in the graduate division. All courses from the graduate division, can be applied towards a graduate degree at the Master’s or Doctoral level, or a Graduate Diploma or Certificate with the consent of the Academic Committee of the university. In a few exceptional cases, some courses taken at the Continuing Education division of the University may also be applied towards a graduate degree. In all cases, the decision of the Academic Committee shall remain final.

I am not a Hindu by birth or faith – are the programs of HUA relevant for me?

You do not have to be a Hindu by birth to become a student of the Hindu University of America nor do you have to convert into a Hindu to benefit from these offerings. You may be delighted with the quality, depth, and value of the educational offerings at HUA, and may discover that they enrich your life considerably. We encourage you to try out a few courses. Correspond with the instructor. Find out if a certain course of study, certificate or degree applies to you.

I am spiritually inclined, but not religious – Will studying at HUA be valuable?

For spiritually inclined people, not necessarily attracted towards any one religion, the course offerings at the Hindu University of America will be especially valuable in exploring the original ancient sources from which these spiritually based knowledge systems have emerged. Hinduism itself, even though it is understood to be a religion in the popular imagination, is unlike any religion or religious ideology. In fact, what we understand by the word religion is itself modeled after the proto-typical middle eastern model, which became universalized into a category of its own, called religion. Hinduism, on the other hand, is more like an open library of knowledge systems that originate from a special spiritual place and world-view, with a particular understanding of the nature of the relationship between consciousness, matter, and the cosmos, and the unique place we as human beings have within it. These knowledge systems embedded in communities that preserved them gave rise to numerous traditions. Religion is a word too limiting to describe Hinduism, (or Sanatana Dharma) to use a more original Sanskrit name. You may discover that you can participate fruitfully in the areas of study offered by the Hindu University of America without having to become religious in any sense of the word.

Am I expected to convert into Hinduism at Hindu University of America?

Most definitely not. The knowledge systems and mode of study offered by HUA are designed to enhance the quality of your life, and the options and choices before you without having to engage with any form of religious practice or convert. The ideas and concepts presented through these courses at HUA, stand as possibilities for you to consider, to try on to see if they fit for you, and work for you. There is no expectation on the part of the University that you emerge with any new relationship with Hinduism or Hindu ideas and practices.

I have studied Yoga and taught it – Can I get credit for my prior work?

I have an interest in Ayurveda – Can I get a degree from HUA in that field?

Definitely. We anticipate launching Ayurveda courses and programs in three phases. In the first phase, we expect to make available a collection of courses which may be taken a la carte and perhaps earn a certificate. In the second phase, we anticipate launching a graduate level area of study, on which students may concentrate. And in the third phase, we will announce a full degree program in Ayurveda. Stay tuned for more information, on this.

Are there courses at HUA that specifically apply to Non-Hindus?

Are there courses at HUA that don’t apply to Non-Hindus?

Some courses in the continuing education division may be designed around specific Hindu practices such as chanting or may use the Sanskrit language used as a medium of instruction. They are not intended to be applicable only to ethnic or cultural Hindus, but, Non-Hindus should evaluate if they have the prior preparation to take these courses and may consult the instructor to assess their readiness.

Can I enroll in HUA if I reside outside the United States?

Is there a requirement to reside or visit the United States during my Program?

For now, there is no requirement to visit or reside in the US for any length of time during the program of study. The certificate or degree may be earned remotely. However, there are specific certificates that require “contact” hours. These may require face to face sessions, especially in the continuing education division. Watch out for such courses, which may be difficult for international students.

Are there any special admission requirements for international students?

Are international students eligible for financial assistance?

How can I get my international degree and transcripts evaluated?

Can I get credit for prior work done in other international universities?

What graduate programs does HUA offer?

Currently, Hindu University of America offers a Master’s Degree and a Ph.D. Degree in Hindu Studies. This is a single program, which offers two terminal degrees. In addition, HUA also offers two Graduate Diploma Certificates in Sanskrit studies, which may be combined to form the equivalent of a Master’s Degree in Sanskrit.

Can I work part-time on my Master’s or Doctoral Degree?

Yes. Both the Master’s and Ph.D. Degrees in Hindu Studies, as well as the Graduate Diplomas in Sanskrit, are designed keeping part-time students who are professionals in mind. The pacing or the program and course load can also be appropriately structured and customized for each student in unique ways.

Can I transfer credit from other Universities into HUA’s graduate programs?

What are the admission requirements for the Graduate programs?

For admission into the Master’s Program in Hindu Studies, a Bachelor’s degree earned in any discipline is a pre-requisite. For admission into the Doctoral Program in Hindu Studies, there are three distinct entry points. Students who have completed a Master’s Degree in Hindu Studies from HUA, with good standing will be deemed adequately prepared for admission into the Doctoral program. Students who have a Master’s Degree in any other related field in the liberal arts, humanities or social sciences, may be eligible for admission into the Doctoral program, after evaluation of their level of prior preparation. They may be required to take certain courses in areas where they may have a gap in their level of knowledge. Students who have a bachelor’s degree but are interested in obtaining a Ph.D. may be eligible for admission in the accelerated MA/Ph.D. program, which will require them to get an MA Degree along the way.

Is there a thesis only option available for students with advanced standing?

In exceptional cases, a student with extensive knowledge and experience in the general area of Hindu studies, or related fields, may be granted admission into the Doctoral program with a thesis only option. But this is rare. Also, students who already have a Doctoral degree in a different field may also be granted a thesis only option to earn a second Doctoral degree. These decisions are taken by the academic committee on a case by case basis.

Are there options for post-doctoral research work at HUA?

What requirements must I fulfill to obtain my Master’s or Doctoral degree?

Students may consult the pages on the Web Site pertaining to these programs specifically. In general, a Master’s Degree requires the student to complete 60 credit hours of course work, of which 6 credit hours may be earned for a mini-thesis. The Doctoral Degree is awarded after the student completes 60 credit hours of course work, beyond the Master’s Degree and writes a dissertation that passes the standards of evaluation established by the dissertation committee. An accelerated MA/Ph.D. degree can be earned with 90 credit hours of course work and a dissertation.

What career choices will I have after a Degree from HUA?

We anticipate that students who graduate with degrees at the Master’s level or the Doctoral level from Hindu University of America, will be well prepared for careers in teaching, education, research, writing, editing and publishing, journalism, media, leadership, management, administration, non-profit sector, public service, counseling, consulting, mentoring, coaching, advocacy, entrepreneurship, event management, public relations, and other disciplines. Students are advised that there is no well-worn, beaten path to a job for a degree in Hindu studies as is the case with professional degrees such as Engineering, Medicine or Law. At the same time, for the student who is willing to be bold, courageous and innovative, there will be plenty of opportunities.

Can I apply to teach courses at HUA?

What qualifications do I need to have to teach at HUA?

At the graduate division, teachers are required to either have a Ph.D., in the liberal arts, humanities or the social sciences, or they must be ordained in a Hindu spiritual tradition and must have undergone rigorous training and practice under a Guru or Acharya within the tradition. At the continuing education division, such qualifications are not strictly enforced. Anyone with a passion for teaching, who is good at teaching and earns the respect of their students can teach.

I do not have a Ph.D. in Hindu studies or a related field. Can I teach at HUA?

Can I teach in languages other than English at HUA?

Can I teach remotely from where I live?

Yes. The Hindu University of America offers a rich distance learning platform, that can be leveraged by both Faculty and Students from remote areas. All you need is a good and fast internet connection. The remote teaching and learning capabilities enable interested people to come together online and engage with one another without having to travel. And this is a great advance for low-cost education, at a time, when a campus-based college education is becoming increasingly expensive.

Can I teach while also being a student at HUA?

Yes. This is, in fact, one of the great opportunities of HUA. Each student may also offer courses. Each Faculty may also take courses from other Faculty. The Hindu University of America online education platform is envisioned to promote life long learning. Students may become teaching assistants with other senior faculty and gain experience in teaching while also going through their own program of study.

Can I advise Doctoral students at HUA?

Subject to the criteria for advising Doctoral Students at HUA, anyone who qualifies may offer to advise a graduate student. The Hindu University of America welcomes qualified faculty situated in other universities around the world, to become outside advisors to HUA’s students. The decision to accommodate an outside advisor or to invite someone specific to become an outside advisor will be made by the academic committee and is usually based on the degree of fit between the student’s focus area in their doctoral work, and the faculty’s area of interest, in their research work.

How do I apply to teach at HUA?

Explore our Areas of Study

Whether you are culturally Hindu and looking to reconnect deeply with your roots or you are culturally non-Hindu, but interested in engaging deeply with the knowledge systems and traditions of Vedic and Indic origin, the Hindu University of America will have something unique to offer you.

It was indeed a splendid idea several years ago to launch the Hindu University of America. The
the idea is as powerful today as it was then, and perhaps even more so as the current marketplace
of ideas demonstrates a growing desire to learn more about the values enshrined in Hinduism
through its practices, such as meditation, yoga, pranayama, and Ayurveda.

Padma Bhushan Ved Nanda

Chairman Board of Directors HUA

As Hindu University of America’s mission statement reveals, it represents a historic opportunity
to reconsider the role and value of the humanities. I am hopeful that in the years to come the
The Hindu University of America will make a major contribution not only to Hindu studies and
Hinduism but also to American academia itself by living up to the standards of critical inquiry
and open debate.

Dr. Vishwa Adluri

Professor in Philosophy, Hunter College

The Hindu University of America holds enormous promise for the future of humanity by marshaling
Vedic wisdom towards addressing multiple crises confronting the world today. It can emerge as
an intellectual beacon for understanding the problems plaguing our society and exploring
solutions in the light of that ancient Vedic wisdom.

Dr. Debidatta Aurobinda Mahapatra,

Director, Mahatma Gandhi Center, Hindu University of America

Overview

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Discover life by Exploring India

Featured Courses

FAQ

What kind of students’ study at the Hindu University of America?

Is Hindu University of America a religious educational institution?

Do I have to be a Hindu to study at the Hindu University of America?

Does the Hindu University of America have an evangelical purpose?

How is studying at HUA different from going to my local Temple or Guru?

What career pathways exist for students who graduate from HUA?

Do I have to be a resident of the HUA campus during my program of study?

Is Hindu University of America accredited?

Does Hindu University of America provide financial assistance?

What study options do I have for continuing education at HUA?

What value does the continuing education I get from HUA provide me in my life?

Will the certificates I earn from HUA, help me in my career?

Will the continuing education hours count towards professional certification?

Can I take one course at a time as a stand-alone course?

Can individual continuing education courses be applied towards a Certificate program?

Can individual continuing education courses be applied towards a Graduate degree?

I am not a Hindu by birth or faith – are the programs of HUA relevant for me?

I am spiritually inclined, but not religious – Will studying at HUA be valuable?

Am I expected to convert into Hinduism at Hindu University of America?

I have studied Yoga and taught it – Can I get credit for my prior work?

I have an interest in Ayurveda – Can I get a degree from HUA in that field?

Are there courses at HUA that specifically apply to Non-Hindus?

Are there courses at HUA that don’t apply to Non-Hindus?

Can I enroll in HUA if I reside outside the United States?

Is there a requirement to reside or visit the United States during my Program?

Are there any special admission requirements for international students?

Are international students eligible for financial assistance?