Undergraduate – GL–SHEDRA II in Environmental Studies

Overview

GL–Shedra II is the intermediate stage of Giao Long Monastery’s academic path, designed for students who have completed the foundational curriculum of Shedra I. This program expands the learner’s capacity to understand classical Buddhist philosophy, engage with primary texts, and develop stable insight through contemplative practice.

Where Shedra I establishes the groundwork, Shedra II opens the gateway to deeper inquiry — introducing students to Indian and Tibetan scholastic systems, core treatises, analytical meditation, and the interpretive methods that define the shedra tradition. Students begin working closely with classical texts while strengthening the philosophical reasoning needed for advanced study.

This program marks the transition from basic familiarity to intellectual rigor, disciplined inquiry, and contemplative integration.

Learning Goals

By completing Shedra II, students will:

• By completing Shedra II, students will:
• Demonstrate an intermediate understanding of key Buddhist philosophical systems: Madhyamaka, Yogacara, and Abhidharma.
• Read and interpret selected passages from classical Tibetan texts with teacher guidance.
• Practice structured analytical meditation based on the great treatises.
• Strengthen debate, reasoning, and critical analysis skills.
• Understand the historical development of Buddhist thought across India and Tibet.
• Prepare for advanced philosophical study in Shedra III.

Program Duration & Study Format

GL–Shedra II is a two-year intermediate program, offered in:

• On-campus full-time immersion

• Low-residency format (online classes + annual retreat)

All teachings, materials, and monastery lodging remain tuition-free, supported by the community offering model of Giao Long.

Assessment & Advancement

To progress to GL–Shedra III, students must:

• Demonstrate intermediate proficiency in Tibetan reading

• Pass written and oral exams in philosophy

• Show stability in analytical meditation

• Participate consistently in debate sessions

• Maintain ethical discipline and community service

Completion of this stage awards the Certificate in Intermediate Buddhist Studies, equivalent to a second-year monastic college level.

Who Should Apply

GL–Shedra II is designed for students who have already built a solid foundation in Buddhist studies and wish to deepen their philosophical understanding and contemplative insight. This program is ideal for:

• Students who have completed GL–Shedra I and are ready for intermediate-level inquiry and textual interpretation.
• Monastic practitioners seeking structured training in philosophy, debate, and classical reasoning.
• Lay students with a strong commitment to disciplined study and contemplative practice.
• International learners who wish to study Tibetan Buddhist philosophy through the Low-Residency format.
• Aspiring scholar-practitioners preparing for advanced study, translation work, or deeper meditative training.
• Applicants should demonstrate sincerity, consistency in practice, and openness to analytical dialogue — qualities essential for progressing toward GL–Shedra III.

Degree Requirements (60 credits)