The Master of Arts in Hindu Studies program unfolds Hinduism across three main dimensions: the lived, cultural traditions; primary textual sources; and varied spiritual practices. When a student recognizes and appreciates the congruity and coherence of these three dimensions, across its varied and diverse expressions, this constitutes a sound foundational understanding of Hinduism. The program will develop the contrast between the Western paradigm of understanding of Hinduism which exhibits a propensity to describe Hinduism as inherently incoherent and contradictory, or hierarchical and oppressive, with the self-understanding of the Hindu civilization, based on its own texts, traditions, cultural expressions and spiritual practices.
Students must take 4 courses from the Hindu Studies Foundations program. The remaining 8 courses are spread across several distribution areas for a total of 12 courses, or 36 semester credit hours.
