Does January feel like a trial month to you?
As February unfolds, you might find yourself pondering how best to invest the rest of your year meaningfully. If you thrive on structure and routine to maintain discipline, why not consider enrolling in a course to deepen your understanding and practice of Buddhism?
With options available across Singapore and online, there’s a course to fit your schedule and preferences. It’s never too late to invest in personal development!
Here are 6 comprehensive Buddhist courses in Singapore currently open for registration:
Note: The following is not ranked in any particular order.
1. Introduction to Buddhism Course by Buddhist and Pali College of Singapore (BPC)
Are you familiar with the core teachings of Buddhism? If not, this course might be perfect for you! Tailored for beginners with minimal or no prior knowledge, it serves as an excellent introduction to Buddhism
Affiliated with the Buddhist and Pali University of Sri Lanka, BPC has a track record of nurturing Buddhist scholars and is now in its 26th year of offering this program. Graduates have the option to further their studies in Buddhism by enrolling in the Diploma in Buddhism course.
By the course’s conclusion, you’ll confidently articulate core teachings, such as The 3 Characteristics of Existence, The 4 Noble Truths, and the Noble 8 Fold Path, while gaining insights into Rebirth, Karma, and the significance of Buddhist rituals and meditation practices. Next time your friend asks about Buddhism, you’ll be ready to provide accurate insights.
🗓️ When: 28 Feb to 15 May (Every Wednesday, 7.30pm – 9.30pm)
🎓Great for: Beginners seeking fundamental knowledge about Buddhism
💲Price: By donation
📍Location: Mangala Vihara Buddhist Temple (near Eunos MRT)
📞Contact: Sis Lynn @ 8288 9888
✉️ Register via: [email protected]
Find out more about the course here
2. Meditation and Dhamma Class at Buddhist Library (Singapore)
Looking for a blend of meditation practice and learning new knowledge? The Buddhist Library‘s popular program might be just what you need. Led by seasoned mentors, Sis Foo Siew Fong, Sis Foo Siew Ee, Sis Tan Sock Hoon and Bro Tan Chau Yee, this intake focuses on deepening your understanding of the topic “Kamma.”
Each session offers a holistic experience, including homage to the Triple Gems, guided meditation, insightful Dhamma bites, engaging Q&A, and a second guided meditation session.
This course is designed for individuals with prior meditation experience and a basic understanding of Buddhism. Don’t worry if you lack these prerequisites; mentors will offer personalised guidance during the initial 2-3 sessions in a separate classroom.
Compared to others on this list, this course has a relatively shorter duration. If you’re seeking a balanced blend of practical application and theoretical understanding, this program is an excellent choice!
🗓️ When: 24 Feb – 4 May (Every Sat, 2.30-4.30PM)
🎓 Great for: Beginners and seasoned practitioners
💲Price: Free
📍Location: The Buddhist Library, No.2, Geylang Lorong 24A Singapore 398526
👉Register: here
Find out more about the course here
3. Dhamma Foundation Course 1: The Fulfilling Lay Life at Buddhist Fellowship Singapore
Tired of uninspiring lectures?
Dhamma Foundation Course 1 (DFC1) offers a refreshing alternative. Guided by esteemed Buddhist teachers, Sister Sylvia Bay and Brother Chye Chye, this program transcends traditional teaching methods. Participants gain practical insights to integrate Buddhist teachings into their daily lives, fostering joy and fulfillment.
The course’s standout feature is its interactive and practical approach. Engage in lively discussions, explore diverse viewpoints, and reassess your life’s direction. Grounded in the Buddhist Pali Canon, you’ll delve into timeless wisdom.
After completing the course, there’s also the option to delve deeper with Dhamma Foundation Course 2, starting after Vesak 2024. Psss…Seats usually fill up fast for this. Grab them before they’re gone.
🗓️ When: Every Sat, 2 Mar to 11 May, 2pm – 5pm
🎓Great for: Those seeking to apply Buddhist teachings to their daily lives while deepening sutta knowledge.
💲Price: Free (Suggested administration fee of $30)
📍Location: BF West, Dhamma Hall
👉Register here
Find out more about the course here
4. A 3 Year Buddhism Course (In English) at KMSPKS Monastery
Looking to commit to learning throughout the year? Look no further.
With three terms, each comprising nine lessons, this course stands as the most comprehensive Buddhist program on our list. Set within the serene surroundings of Bishan, you’ll have the opportunity to study in one of Singapore’s largest Buddhist monasteries.
Throughout the course, you’ll delve into a wide array of topics, including the life of the Buddha, Buddhist observances, the Three Refuges, the Five Precepts, the Eight Precepts, the Ten Wholesome Actions, the Four Noble Truths, the Eightfold Path, and the Sigalovada Sutta.
🗓️ When: 28 Feb to 6 Nov 2024 (Wed, 7.30pm to 9pm)
🎓 Great for: Deepening understanding of Buddhism
💲Price: $110 per course year
📍Location: Venerable Hong Choon Memorial Hall, Level 1 @
Kong Meng San Phor Kark See Monastery, 88 Bright Hill Road, Singapore 574117
✉️ Email: [email protected]
📞Contact: 6849 5345
👉Register Online: Click here to register for the first year.
Find out more about the course here
5. Introduction to Buddhist Fundamentals by Dot Connections
This is the only option on the list that is held online! So if you’re a busy bee but would still like to dedicate yourself to learning the basics of Buddhism, this is for you.
The comprehensive course with 12 lessons is designed for beginners to explore the life of the Buddha, delve into the core teachings, and different Buddhist traditions and ponder the relevance of Buddhism today. By the end, you’ll be equipped with the basic Buddhist knowledge required to pursue a Diploma in Buddhist Psychotherapy and Counselling course.
🗓️ When: May 3 to Jul 19
- Online Orientation on Sat April 27 (2 to 4 pm)
- course closure on Jul 27 (2 to 4 pm)
🎓 Great for: Participants with limited prior knowledge of Buddhism
💲Price: Usual fees: $120 | Early Bird: $100 | Student: $80
📍Location: Online via Zoom
📞 Contact: +65 85014365
👉 Register by Apr 21 2024: Click here
Find out more about the course here
6. Discovering Buddhism at Amitabha Buddhist Centre (ABC)
Seeking a modular learning experience?
This 14-module course offers a profound exploration of Tibetan Mahayana Buddhism’s teachings, and is anchored in the profound Stages of the Path (Lamrim) teachings.
Preceded by two successful editions of Introduction to Discovering Buddhism at ABC in 2022 and 2023, each module delves deep into key themes like Mind and Its Potential, The Spiritual Teacher, Karma, and more. With each module spanning 4 to 6 sessions, participants gain a solid understanding. The program adopts a flexible, modular format, allowing individuals to enroll in specific modules without prerequisites
Modules 4 and 5—‘The Spiritual Teacher’ and ‘Kamma and Rebirth’—are currently available for registration. Led by FPMT-Registered Teachers, Bro Benny Law and Sis Koh Guat Cheng, you’ll delve into the pivotal role of the spiritual teacher and the dynamics of the teacher-student relationship. Additionally, you’ll explore the profound concepts of death and rebirth, learning how these impact our existence and guide us in fulfilling our life’s purpose.
🗓️ When:
- Module 4-5: 2 Mar – 27 Apr 2024
- Thursdays: 7.30pm – 9.30pm,
- Saturdays: 10am to 12pm
🎓 Great for: Deepening understanding of Tibetan Mahayana Buddhism
💲Price: N/A
📍Location: Amitabha Buddhist Centre
44 Lorong 25A Geylang
Singapore 388244
✉️ Contact: [email protected]
👉 Registration: click here (Not required for classes, but necessary for course materials)
Find out more about the course here
Closing remarks
Understanding the teachings of Buddhism transcends intellectual curiosity; it serves as a profound pathway towards personal transformation and the attainment of inner peace. May you find the mental strength and energy to not only absorb these teachings but also to actively integrate them into your daily lives. Through mindful application and sincere practice, may the wisdom gleaned from Buddhism illuminate your path, guiding you towards greater clarity, compassion, and fulfilment in every day of your life.