Click on the common questions below to view their answers.
How do I apply for the next training?
You can access the application forms on our web site.
When is the application deadline?
Applications will be reviewed as they are sent in and are accepted year-round. Admissions deadline for the 2012-2013 educational year is May 5, 2012.
How do I enroll in the training?
First, The Center screens all applicants. After returning a completed application and reference form, you will be notified by Center staff and told whether or not you will be scheduled for an in-person interview. Acceptance into the program is based on your application and interview. In-person interviews are scheduled as applications are reviewed.
What if I am not a Buddhist?
In addition to practitioners from all streams of Buddhism, the Center considers applications from individuals of various faiths who have a meditation practice/prayer practice and who share our commitment of bringing together contemplative practices, caregiving and social action.
2011/12 Scheduled Dates
Trainings are held primarily on Saturdays, and occasionally on both Friday and Saturdays, generally from 9:30 a.m. to 5:15 p.m, September 2011 through June 2012.
2011/12 Training Dates:
2010: September 9 + 10, September 29-October 2 Contemplative Care Retreat, November 12, December 2 + 3.
2012: January 7, February 4, March 2 + 3, April 14, May 5, June 1 + 2.
2012: January 7, February 4, March 2 + 3, April 14, May 5, June 1 + 2.
Where does the training take place?
At Village Zendo, 588 Broadway, Suite 1108, NYC, NY 10012.
How much does the training cost?
There is a tuition fee of $3,400 (+ $100 processing fee if paying by credit card) to defray costs of this training. A limited number of partial work exchange scholarships may be available. You may also want to explore the option of having either an organization or friends and family sponsor you.
What is the participant commitment?
Participants commit to attending 10 Training weekends, completing 100 hours of volunteer chaplaincy, attending the 4-day Contemplative Care Retreat, September 29-October 2, 2011, at Garrison Institute, attending monthly support groups, visiting various religious centers, completing reading reports & written reflection essays, and consulting with a supervisor for 8 months out of the training.
Where do I do my volunteer caregiving?
Participants may serve as a volunteer caregiver at hospitals, hospices, and other health centers. Those in the New York City metro area are placed either at Visiting Nurse Service Hospice or Beth Israel Medial Center. Those at a distance (from other states to international students) are responsible for obtaining a position as such.
Do I need to have caregiving experience?
No. This is an introductory training program. Each of us has the capacity to embrace the suffering of another person and the ability to provide compassionate care to another.
What if I live on the West Coast? Are there other Trainings available?
Yes. The Sati Center for Buddhist Studies, in Redwood City, CA, has a wonderful Introductory Buddhist Chaplaincy Training Program. Please inquire at www.sati.org.
Will this training qualify me for a full-time job as a chaplain?
This is a graduate level training that includes several self-directed learning components. It does not certify you to become a chaplain. However, successful completion of the Foundations Program does make you eligible to apply for our Clinical Pastoral Education (C.P.E) training program. Also, once you are accepted to the Foundations Program, you have the option to register through our partner institution, Institute of Buddhist Studies, to receive 6 Graduate Seminary Credits for this program. There is an additional charge, paid to IBS for these credits. To learn more about IBS, please go here.
