Mindfulness and Contemplative Studies

Advanced Certificate

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CULTIVATE AWARENESS. TRANSFORM YOUR PRACTICE.

Explore mindfulness and contemplative studies through an interdisciplinary graduate program that brings together scholarship, personal practice, and professional application.

Rooted in philosophical, historical, and scientific inquiry, the program invites students to explore diverse contemplative traditions and practices as pathways to greater awareness, self-understanding, and more intentional ways of engaging with the world. Through experiential learning, critical reflection, and personal inquiry, students deepen their understanding while cultivating their own contemplative practice.

Designed for educators, healthcare professionals, counselors, social workers, leaders, and lifelong learners, the program offers opportunities to integrate contemplative perspectives and practices into personal and professional life.

View program requirements.

A Different Kind of Graduate Program

100% Online Classes

Study mindfulness and contemplative practices through a flexible online program designed for working professionals.

Complete in Just One Year

This program can be completed in two semesters of study, offering a streamlined path to gaining your certificate. 

Expand Your Professional Impact

Bring greater awareness, presence, and intentionality into your professional work and the communities you serve.

Mindfulness

EXPLORE THE PROGRAM

12 Credits | 4 Courses | 2 Semesters

Complete four required graduate courses across two semesters to earn the Advanced Certificate in Mindfulness and Contemplative Studies. All classes are online.

COURSES

The Mindfulness and Contemplative Studies Advanced Certificate is designed for individuals who have earned an undergraduate or graduate degree or for those who are enrolled currently in a graduate degree program. In the advanced certificate program, students will acquire a strong foundation in the theory, origins, and practice of contemplative studies and mindfulness while also acquiring the necessary skills to consider and apply theory to their professional work and/or personal lives. Graduates will have a thorough understanding of the application of contemplative techniques and mindfulness across fields and will have the technical skills and knowledge that are necessary to practice and teach mindfulness in varied settings. The Advanced Certificate Program is suitable for those working in the fields of education, medicine, social work, counseling, leadership, or health and wellness or for individuals who are seeking personal growth.

1. To build a strong foundation in theory, origins, and practice of contemplative studies and mindfulness: The program aims to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the history, philosophy, and practices of mindfulness studies. Students will explore the theoretical underpinnings of mindfulness and acquire skills for self-reflection and transformation.


2. To apply contemplative techniques and mindfulness across fields: The program will equip students with the skills and knowledge to apply mindfulness practices in diverse settings. Graduates will be able to integrate mindfulness practices into their personal lives and professional work, including fields such as education, medicine, social work, counseling, leadership, and health and wellness.


3. To acquire technical skills and knowledge to practice and teach mindfulness: The program will provide students with the necessary technical skills and knowledge to practice mindfulness and teach others. Graduates will have a deep understanding of the methods and approaches for teaching mindfulness and will be able to design and implement mindfulness programs in various settings.


4. To seek personal and professional growth: The program is suitable for individuals who are seeking personal and professional growth. Students will develop skills for self-awareness, self-care, and cultivating resilience, which are essential for personal and professional growth.

Overall, the Advanced Certificate Program in Mindfulness and Contemplative Studies aims to provide students with a transformative educational experience that integrates theory, practice, and the application of mindfulness. Graduates will be well-equipped to make a positive impact in their personal and professional lives and contribute to the wider community.

MORE THAN A CERTIFICATE: A TRANSFORMATIVE LEARNING EXPERIENCE

 

Cultivate Your Own Practice

Explore contemplative practices through direct experience, reflection, and mindful inquiry. Deepen your awareness and discover new ways of relating to yourself and others.

Bring Contemplative Practice Into Your Work

Discover how contemplative approaches can inform your professional practice, strengthen intentional engagement, and enrich the communities you serve.

 

WHY CHOOSE LEHMAN COLLEGE?

Get to Know the Community Behind Your Online Experience

Choosing an online graduate program means choosing more than a course of study—it means becoming part of an academic community. At Lehman College, part of The City University of New York (CUNY), students pursue their goals through education, inquiry, and meaningful connections.

Discover Lehman through the experiences and achievements of our students and alumni, and get a glimpse of the people and community behind the College.

Explore Lehman Stories →

READY TO BEGIN?

Take the next step toward bringing mindfulness and contemplative practice more deeply into your life and work.

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1. An undergraduate bachelor’s degree or graduate master’s degree from an accredited institution.

2. Official undergraduate or graduate transcript showing a minimum 3.0 GPA.

3. One letter of recommendation from an employer, faculty or community leader to serve as academic and/or character reference.

4. An essay that explains the interest in pursuing this area of study and future career plans.

For Fall Admission:

Priority Decision Deadline (first look): April 15 

Regular Decision Deadline: May 15 

Final Deadline: June 15

 

For Spring Admission:

Priority Decision Deadline (first look): October 15 

Regular Decision Deadline: November 15 

Final Deadline: December 15

CUNY offers highly competitive tuition rates here. 

STAY CONNECTED

Join Our Contemplative Studies Community

Explore ideas, discover upcoming events, and stay connected to opportunities for contemplative learning and practice.

Join Our Community

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A Message from the Program Director

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“Contemplative study invites us to slow down, deepen our awareness, and reconsider how we engage with ourselves, others, and the world. Through scholarship, reflection, and lived experience, this program creates opportunities for personal growth and meaningful transformation in the communities we serve.”

Sunyata Smith, Ph.D.
Program Director, Mindfulness and Contemplative Studies

Have Questions? Let's Connect.
sunyata.smith@lehman.cuny.edu