The Master of Arts in Mindfulness Studies and Graduate Certificate programs at Atlantic University blend ancient mindfulness practices with modern neuroscience and human behavior research. These programs aim to cultivate self-awareness, ethical leadership, and compassionate action in diverse professional and personal settings.
Mindfulness Studies Overview
Mindfulness originates from ancient Eastern philosophies and has significantly influenced the West over the last 50 years. It has become integral in sectors such as psychotherapy, leadership, education, business, healthcare, and well-being. Mindfulness is a disciplined practice centered on heightened awareness of self and others in the present moment. Practitioners operate with intention, non-judgment, and increased awareness, enriching their spiritual development and positively transforming their surroundings.
Program Objectives
- Examine the foundations of mindfulness theory through wisdom and faith traditions, and science.
- Create and implement a personal mindfulness practice applicable to multiple dimensions of one’s life.
- Evaluate the application of ethical principles to individual and collective challenges related to justice, diversity, equity, and inclusion in leadership and compassionate action.
- Analyze and differentiate theories and models within the field of leadership in relation to human development and the dynamics of life.
- Apply critical and creative thinking to relevant issues and research within the evolving fi eld of mindfulness studies.
- Analyze and appraise factors involved in change, conflict, and compassion, as they relate to individual and collective
experiences. - Develop and embody mindfulness practices related to change, confl ict, and compassion, in an effort to facilitate the organic connection between self and others.
- Produce an original work that demonstrates their ability to integrate theory, practice, reflection and application.
Key Features
- M.A. Credit Hours: 39 credit hours
- Graduate Certificate Credit Hours: 15 credit hours
- Course Delivery: Online, with four 12-week semesters per year
- Capstone Project: Required for M.A. completion
Key Content
The Mindfulness Studies curriculum at Atlantic University allows graduate students and working professionals to develop their scholarship and practical skills to meet the challenges of our ever-changing world. The sequence of required and elective courses allows for rich and deep self-reflection and present-moment awareness, as an evolving part of each student’s worldview and personal transformation.
- Foundations of Mindfulness Studies
- Foundations of Mindful Leadership
- Research Methods
- Spirituality & Ethics
- Mindful Communication
- Decolonizing the Mind
- Peacebuilding
- Earth Stewardship
- Contemplative Neuroscience
- Mindfulness Retreat
- Leading from the Inside Out
- Change, Conflict & Leadership
- Coaching & Development
- Becoming a teacher of meditation and the inner life
- Directed Study
- Capstone Project
Application Requirements
Applicants must have a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution with a GPA of 3.0 or higher. For applicants who have a lower GPA, supplemental materials such as additional recommendations or a higher score on the GRE may be requested. In addition to the academic requirements, we look for candidates who demonstrate a commitment to personal growth and a deep interest in their chosen area of study.
- Completed application
- Identification
- Transcripts
- Admissions essay
- Resume or CV for Mindfulness Studies degree and Mindful Leadership Graduate Certificate applicants
- Interview
- Full details are listed in the catalog.
Tuition
- Tuition per credit hour: $427
- Tuition per 3-credit course: $1,281
- Total Tuition, 39 Credit Hours: $16,653
(does not include textbooks or any additional costs, supplies, and fees)
Fees
- Application: $50
- Graduation Fee: $100
- Extension: $50
- Transcript: $10 each
- Returned Check: $35
- Withdrawal: $50
- Resource fee: $75 per semester
For more information on tuition policies, refunds, and other options, download the full catalog.
Become part of Atlantic University
online courses | compassionate mindful community
Request more information to further your career and personal growth:
