Naropa University, located in Boulder, Colorado, blends eastern and western traditions of education in attempt to offer a more comprehensive and enlightening atmosphere of study. The school was founded by Chögyam Trungpa Rinpoche, a Tibetan refugee due to the Chinese invasion. Educated at Oxford and familiarized with eastern and western methods of teaching, Mr. Rinpoche became renowned as a teacher of meditation.
He then began opening meditation centers throughout the United States based on his reputation and knowledge. In 1974 he founded the Naropa Institute, which over time has evolved, offering a variety of undergraduate and graduate degrees, eventually becoming what is today known as Naropa University.
Academics
Naropa University stresses what is called a contemplative education, an education that focuses on the obtaining of knowledge as well as considering one's place in the world. Students at the school will reflect upon their studies and themselves, earning either a bachelor's or master's degree upon completion of the program. The school also offers certificate, study abroad and summer writing programs.
Programs offered include:
Admissions and Financial Aid
Students interested in enrollment at Naropa University must submit an application which will be reviewed and an answer given as soon as possible. Requirements for new students differ from those transferring to the university, as do the requirements for undergraduate and graduate programs. Students in need of assistance may engage in an online chat through the schools website to assist in the process. Students in need of financial may qualify for loans or grants. TO determine eligibility and awards students should complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).
Admission Requirements & Details
The admission details below may give an overview of the candidates Naropa University accepts. The details may include application requirements and recommendations, as well as any AP college credits that may be transferred.
College Credits Accepted
- AP Course Credits
Student Enrollment
Naropa University has a total student population of about 940. The student body is made up of 42% undergraduate students and 5% graduate students.
Estimated Costs & Financial Aid
The items listed below are for informational purposes only and may not represent current tuition, fees, and expenses.
Tuition & Fees Information
- The estimated tuition range is around $30,000-$36,000 per year
- Per unit charges are around $1,100 for part time students
Financial Aid Details
The table listed below helps break down the types of financial aid students receive and the percent receiving aid, as well as the average amount of aid per student per year.
| Percent of Students | Average Amount | |
|---|---|---|
| Any Financial Aid | 75% | - |
| Receiving Grants & Scholarships | 57% | $14,349 |
| Receiving Student Loans | 70% | $7,244 |
Academics & Student Services
Student Services
To help students and recent graduates, Naropa University may provide services like those listed below:- Career path counseling
- Work study style employment
- Employment search assistance
Graduation Rates
The overall graduation rate of Naropa University is approximately 41%.
| Number of Year to Graduate | Percent of Entering Class |
|---|---|
| Students Graduating in 4 Years | 20% |
| Graduating in 5 Years | 20% |
| Graduating in 6 Years | 2% |
Programs Offered
The program list below is organized by areas of study. The programs that have a link will direct you to the program's profile page where you can learn more about education requirements and career pathways.
Get more information about the programs offered by Naropa University by clicking the request information to the right.
(C) Certificate or Award | (A) Associate's | (B) Bachelor's | (M) Master's Degree | (D) Doctorate (PhD,...)
Education
English Language and Literature
- Creative Writing (M)
- English (B)
Interdisciplinary Studies
- Peace Studies and Conflict Resolution (B)
Natural Resources and Conservation
- Natural Resources Management and Policy (M)
- Environmental Studies (B)
Philosophy and Religious Studies
- Religious Studies (B, M)
Psychology
- Counseling Psychology (M)
- Psychology (B, M)
Recreation and Fitness Studies
- Health and Physical Education, Fitness (B)
Theology and Religious Vocations
- Ministry (M)
Visual and Performing Arts
- Theatre Arts and Stagecraft (M)
- Fine Arts and Studio Arts (B)
- Music (B)
- Visual and Performing Arts (B)
Data Disclaimer
Information displayed on this page has been obtained from Institution, State, and Federal data sources, including the US Dept. of Education's Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS) Survey 2010-2016. Information should be solely used for informational purposes only and may not be accurate for the current year. Contact Naropa University for official up-to-date information.