Serkong Institute 4-Year Program
Vision
This program is tailored for individuals seeking a comprehensive grasp of Buddhist scriptures. In today’s fast-paced world, where time is limited for completing traditional Buddhist study programs, this program aims to encompass all essential subjects taught in classical Buddhist studies in a condensed format.
Subjects
The subjects have been carefully selected from the traditional curriculum to enable participants to thoroughly grasp (1) the essence of the Buddhist path, (2) its various aspects, and (3) the correct sequence of progression along the path. Without such comprehension, individulas aspiring to practice the Buddha-dharma may (1) mistakenly prioritize practices that do not lead to liberation, (2) correctly identify the path but, lacking a holistic understanding, focus solely on certain aspects, or (3) possess a comprehensive understanding but, without knowing the proper sequence, emphasize practices that are intended for later stages.
Didactic Method
The didactic method will follow the traditional approach of debate. Students will initially acquire the essential debating skills and subsequently apply them as they advance. This method cultivates a critical and unbiased mindset toward the teachings, empowering students to cultivate conviction and autonomy in their learning.
Duration
The program spans four years, with each module lasting two and a half months. Modules occur during the months of October, November, and December, beginning in 2024.
Given the sequential structure of the program, where earlier subjects prepare participants for later ones, it is ideal for students to attend all four years. However, we will strive to accommodate individual circumstances.
Program Details
Curriculum
1st year: Oct 3 - Dec 15, 2024
Learning debate
Collected Topics (Dudra)Signs and reasoning (Tarig)Pramāṇavārttika - selected sections from the 1st chapter2nd year - Oct 1 - Dec 13, 2025
Basic Buddhist Concepts
Buddhist Psychology (Lorig)Pramāṇavārttika – 2nd chapter3rd year: Fall 2026
The Buddhist View
Tenets (Drubtha)Madhyamaka – Candrakīrti’s Madhyamakāvatāra4th year: Fall 2027
Stages of the Buddhist PathSchedule
Daily Schedule:
7:00 Breakfast10:00 - 11:30 Teaching (with Atisha)11:30 Lunch3:30 - 5:00 Discussion (with Serkong Rinpoche & Atisha)5:00 Dinner6:30 - 8:30 DebateWeekly Schedule:
M-F: Full Daily ScheduleSat AM: Session on using the studies for one's practice (with Serkong Rinpoche)Sat PM: Free TimeSun: Rest DayYearly Schedule:
The program spans four years, with each module lasting two and a half months. Modules occur during the months of October, November, and December, beginning in 2024Teachers
Embark on this learning journey with our esteemed teachers: H.E. Serkong Tsenshap Rinpoche, Gen Tenzin Gurmyi, and Atisha Mathur will be guiding participants through the program with expertise and compassion.
During this initial preparatory year, Serkong Rinpoche and Atisha will serve as the teachers. Gen Tenzin Gurmyi will take on the role of primary teacher starting from the second year onward.
Accommodation
This year's module will be at hosted at Thosamling Nunnery in Dharamsala, India
Thosamling is located in a rural area near Norbulingka, surrounded by fields and offering breathtaking views of the magnificent Dhauladhar mountain range.
Accommodations at Thosamling consist of simple, spacious, and comfortable single rooms. They have a wonderful kitchen staff that provide delicious meals three times a day.