Dear Dharma College Community,

It is truly a blessing to bring the dharma into our daily lives. Yet, how can we ensure it becomes an integral part of our modern livelihood? At Dharma College, our aim is for everyone to embrace dharma as a backdrop to their living experience, particularly during times of stress and unease.

Our founder, Venerable Tarthang Tulku, one of the last living Dzogchen masters fully trained in Tibet in this century, dedicated Dharma College with a profound vision. In his opening remarks, he shared his reasons for establishing Dharma College. Since then, we have diligently sought out professors and students who can engage deeply with the dharma, allowing this timeless knowledge to grow and expand like a full lotus. Just have a look at our core faculty here.  We have some exciting news to share of new teachers who will be joining us in 2025. 

As we enter our seventh year under my directorship, I would like to remind you of our mission and vision. I encourage each of you to sign up for a fresh year of new classes, starting Fall 2024. Give yourself the best gift—the gift of dharma. Have a look and sign up today! You may even feel inspired to share this with a loved one.Our student feedback continues to be exceptional, with most classes consistently receiving a 5/5 rating. You can read them below each class.

Vision
Reimagining Wisdom for Modern Times 

Dharma College was founded in response to the yearning in our secular Western society for the transcendent -- for an authentic spiritual path deeply rooted in ancient wisdom -- yet free from the dogma and trappings of religious traditions.

To meet this challenge, Dharma College draws inspiration from an impeccable lineage of teachings from some of the greatest Tibetan Buddhist masters. We are dedicated to reimagining this wisdom, offering these timeless teachings in ways that are accessible and relevant for the modern world.

Mission
Living Well with Wisdom ◆ Thriving in Community 

At Dharma College, we are devoted to the nurturing and caring for the spiritual development of each individual. Our daily classes and workshops, coupled with professional mindful workspaces in a historic Berkeley building, foster a community of like-minded individuals. Our learning environment supports those in pursuit of deeper meaning, personal fulfillment and creativity, and a balanced, harmonious, growth-oriented life.  Our core value is grounded in that discovery of deep wisdom naturally leads to compassion and caring for others, as well as for the environment. 

How It Works 

Self-realization is a unique journey for each person. Dharma College offers a diverse range of classes, workshops, and public talks. Our educational approach emphasizes sustained investigation, coupled with meditative and contemplative practices, as a way of opening up a path of awakening. 

Classes integrate philosophy, psychology, and science-based insights, engaging students' reflective experiences through interactive and discussion-based formats. Dharma College programs are free from proselytizing, beliefs systems and religious dogmas, yet skillful guidance leads students to a profound understanding of nature of mind, rediscovering their own innate wisdom and capacity for great love, natural freedom and liberation from suffering.   

Your Journey at Dharma

We offer five distinct program areas across three levels, forming a cohesive pathway to inner transformation and lifelong spiritual growth. Newcomers to the College are encouraged to start with our six-week level 100 courses, available throughout the year. After completing a level 100 course, students can advance to our year-long level 200 programs. Upon completing one or more level 200 courses, the level 300 programs guide you to integrate the teachings into everyday life.For those interested in business training, our Urban Professional courses provide specialized development opportunities.