Maitripa Institute
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Maitripa Institute (founded 2005) is an as-yet unaccredited Tibetan Buddhist theological seminary located in Portland, Oregon. It is an affiliated member of the Foundation for the Preservation of the Mahayana Tradition (FPMT), an international network of Gelugpa dharma centers.
The institute's name was chosen by the FPMT spiritual director, Lama Thubten Zopa Rinpoche. It honors the 11th century yogin Maitripa--the guru of Marpa and disciple of Naropa, who studied at the great monastic universities of Nalanda and Vikramashila. The allusion also indicates the school's aspiration to establish itself as an institution of Buddhist scholarship.
Maitripa's founding president is Geshe Yangsi Rinpoche, a tulku and recent graduate of Sera Je (Se Rva Byas) and Gyume Tantric College. He is also one of the two main teachers, along with James Blumenthal.
All activities (with the possible exception of tantric practice) are open to participants regardless of religion.
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[edit] Certificate Program
Beginning 2006, Maitripa Institute began offering courses toward a certificate in Advanced Buddhist Studies. The three-year curriculum emphasizes Tibetan language, Buddhist philosophy, meditation, and community service. An optional fourth, "specialization" year focuses on tantra.
Classes meet primarily on evenings and weekends, for a total of 48 semester hours (or 60 with tantric specialization). As of 2008, the cost is USD 291 per semester hour.
Although at present the institute offers only a certificate, the school is preparing to apply for regional accreditation. It is also considering offering a program in psychology. According to its "Mission and Vision" statement, the program aims to train students in Buddhist thought and practice "as a basis for active engagement and benefit in society." In that spirit, Maitripa Institute's program requires students to supplement their academic study with social service and meditative practice.
[edit] Other
In addition to its formal academic program, Maitripa also offers a "Jokhang" program of pujas and traditional Buddhist talks, similar to other dharma centers. Some of the public programs are "piggybacked" with formal courses, and students may easily move from one category of participation to another.
