3. Correspondence courses on Buddhism

Note that you may need email & regular internet use to get the best out of some courses listed. Courses of this kind vary widely in approach and content, but can be relatively demanding on the grey matter! If you’re unsure whether you can commit due to energy or concentration levels, disability or other factors, its worth discussing this with the organizers, who may offer flexible study module options or send a sample of course content.

The Buddhist Society

An affordable introduction to the fundamentals of the Buddha’s teachings. For £25 (UK), £30 (Europe) you are sent a series booklets in instalments and offered written contact with a volunteer teacher (please note there may be a delay before you are assigned a tutor as there is a waiting list). Alternatively, similar information is available on cassette (4) for £15.60 inc p&p , and CD (4) £20 inc p&p, without a teacher. Contact: The Buddhist Society, 58 Eccleston Square, London, SW1V 1PH, UK. Tel 0207 834 5858.

The Awakened Heart Sangha correspondence course

Up to 2 years during which students have contact and personal guidance from Shenpen Hookham and regular discussions with a senior student. Students work at their own pace, requesting the next book when they need it. ‘Not an academic course’ but ‘comprehensive training in Buddhist study, reflection and meditation - a sound basis for a lifetime of deep spiritual practice... the teachers are Westerners who have studied for many years under distinguished Tibetan teachers in the Kagyu and Nyingma traditions and who have been authorised by them to teach the heart of Buddhism in fresh ways that respond directly to the needs of Western students.’ Costs £295 if paying in lump sum, or £25 per month for a year. Bursaries are also available by applying to the address below and explaining your circumstances. Contact: Awakened Heart Sangha, Bwthun Plas Bry Hir, Lon Ednyfed, Criccieth, Gwynedd, LL 52 OAR, UK. Tel:01766 523 110. Email.

Jamyang The Foundation of Buddhist Thought

A 2 year, 6 module course. Cost covers Course books, daily meditations, readings, homework, electronic info, CDs or MP3s of over 80 hours of teachings on the topics, an interactive tutor group with online tutor. Although the cost is about £420 per year, discounts available to Stillpoint members and Jamyang will attempt to tailor the course to member’s needs. Contact: Gordon McDougall telephone 0207 820 8787, email, or write to Gordon at The Foundation of Buddhist Thought, Jamyang Buddhist Centre, 43, Renfrew Road, London SE11 4NA, UK. See also the  Jamyang Buddhist Centre. 

The Sharpham Trust

Distance learning courses via written material or online download with access to a tutor by phone and/or email plus the opportunity for online discusssions. Courses start April 2005 with a Foundation Course in Theravada and Mahayana Buddhism (one module, 14 weekly units) and 3 courses/modules in October 2005 Introduction to Buddhist Psychology, Tibetan Buddhism and Indian Civilisation. From 2006 the Foundation Course will consist of two modules. Cost per module is £165. Contact Steve Palmer tel: 01803 732 708, email or write to Sharpham Trust, Sharpham House, Ashprington, Totnes, TQ9 7UT, UK.