Foundation

Introduction

The Foundation introduces Tarpa's secular approach to studying Buddhist traditions as part of the broader study of human knowledge. This level helps students understand what Buddhism is, where it came from, and how we can study it today in ways that are open to everyone—regardless of background or belief.

Note: This course is actively being developed and will launch in November 2025. Students may currently access this material through individualized study plans with instructors. Scroll down to watch a sample lecture by Dr. Greg Seton from his Dartmouth College Course on Tibetan Buddhism !

What You'll Learn

Historical Context: Understanding how Buddhism emerged in ancient India, evolved across Asia, and arrived in contemporary Western contexts. Students explore the diversity of Buddhist traditions and how they adapted to different cultures over 2,500 years.

The Central Question: What Is Buddhism? Rather than accepting simple definitions, students investigate multiple perspectives on this question: Is it philosophy? Psychology? Religion? Spiritual practice? Ethical system? Students learn to think critically about categories and recognize Buddhism's multifaceted nature.

Secular Educational Approach: Understanding how Tarpa teaches about Buddhist traditions without promoting religious belief. Students learn the distinction between studying religious phenomena academically and participating in religious practice—similar to how universities teach about Christianity or Islam without requiring faith commitments.

Contemporary Relevance: Exploring how Buddhist ideas relate to modern psychology, neuroscience, philosophy, and ethics. Students discover connections between ancient contemplative insights and contemporary scientific findings about consciousness, wellbeing, and human flourishing.

Educational Outcomes

Students completing the Foundation will demonstrate:

  • Historical literacy: Understanding of Buddhism's origins, major traditions, and historical development

  • Critical thinking: Ability to question assumptions about what Buddhism is and evaluate different interpretations

  • Cultural awareness: Recognition of how Buddhist traditions adapted across different societies

  • Secular framework: Clear understanding of how to study Buddhist traditions academically without religious commitment

  • Contemporary connections: Ability to relate traditional concepts to modern psychology, neuroscience, and philosophy

  • Prepared for further study: Readiness to engage the First Floor curriculum with appropriate context and grounding

How Learning Works

The Foundation includes:

  • Video lectures providing historical and conceptual overview

  • Reading materials from established Buddhist studies scholars

  • Reflective exercises encouraging critical engagement with ideas

  • Discussion opportunities for exploring questions with other students

  • Optional retreat integration for students wanting experiential dimension

Students work at their own pace, though we recommend completing the Foundation before advancing to the First Floor. Assessment occurs through self-reflection and discussion with instructors rather than formal testing.

Getting Started

The Foundation welcomes complete beginners as well as those with prior exposure to Buddhism who want more systematic understanding. No prerequisites or prior knowledge required.

This course will be accessible in November 2025. Sign up for updates to be notified when it launches.