This program is available at the following locations:

• Corvallis
• Ecampus

This minor combines courses from several areas to foster a scholarly understanding of contemplative practices and philosophies by studying them in the context of psychology, religion, history, health, and other academic areas. Often, courses feature first-person experience practicing contemplative techniques, adding a transformative complement to theory-based learning. A large research literature points to contemplative practice as having a variety of beneficial effects such as enhanced attentional ability, increased compassion, better physical and mental health, and access to personal insight. Other benefits include stress reduction, resiliency in the face of challenges, and improvements in relationships.

This program of study supports rigorous intellectual formation as well as consideration and development of the whole person: mind, body, heart, and world. Subtler aspects of human experience, such as non-dual, non-conceptual, direct, experiential wisdom, are explored. The minor invites students to inquire into some of life's most profound mysteries and questions: "What is the nature of consciousness? What happens after death? What supports well-being and a happy, meaningful life? What is the relationship between ethics and wisdom? How can contemplative insights be applied to our most pressing social and environmental problems?" 

Upon completion of a Minor in Contemplative Studies, you will be able to:

1. Effectively practice several contemplative techniques
2. Summarize the research-based benefits of contemplative practice
3. Contextualize contemporary practices in their historical contexts
4. Reflect on personal and professional applications of contemplative philosophies 

Minor Code: 802

A minor in Contemplative Studies can be earned by satisfactorily completing 27 credits from the following list of courses, which must include 12 upper-division credits (300 and 400 level courses).

Check with your own college's policies to see if the same course can count to meet different degree requirements. Up to twelve credits can be double-counted between the Contemplative Studies minor and the Philosophy, Religion and Psychology majors.

*

Baccalaureate Core Course (BCC)

¹

PHL 430/REL 430 may count as an Elective if PHL 208/REL 208 is selected in the Required Core

²

PSY 486 cannot count toward the Psychology major

Minor Code: 802