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

  • Develop a personal mindfulness practice.
  • Apply mindfulness to leadership and ethical challenges.
  • Analyze theories and models in mindfulness and leadership.
  • Produce original work integrating mindfulness theory and practice.

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

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.

2024 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 and options, download the full catalog.

Important
Dates

Winter Semester:
December 12, 2024

Spring Semester:
March 13, 2025

Summer Semester:
June 12, 2025

Fall Semester
September 11, 2025

Winter Semester:
December 19, 2024

Spring Semester:
March 20, 2025

Summer Semester:
June 19, 2025

Fall Semester:
September 18, 2025

Winter Semester:
Nov. 4, 2024–Jan. 2, 2025

Spring Semester:
Feb. 3 – Mar. 31, 2025

Summer Semester:
May 5–Jun. 30, 2025

Fall Semester:
Aug. 4–Sept. 29, 2025

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