Online Class: Buddhism 101

This course examines the known historical facts of the Buddha's life. His teachings are introduced, including the Four Noble Truths, the Eightfold Path to Enlightenment, and the Five Noble Precepts. Participants will learn the nature of Karma, and the distinction between Rebirth in Buddhist philosophy and reincarnation as it is envisioned in Hinduism and other religions.
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  • 11
    Lessons
  • 17
    Exams &
    Assignments
  • 2,799
    Students
    have taken this course
  • 8
    Hours
    average time
  • 0.8
    CEUs
 
 

Course Description

Dive deep into the profound and ever-relevant teachings of Buddhism with our comprehensive course. As the world evolves and undergoes rapid changes, the time-honored principles of Buddhist philosophy have found renewed significance. Witnessing a global resurgence, Buddhism's tenets of logic, individualism, tolerance, and freedom resonate deeply in the contemporary era.

Buddhism stands out among the world's major religions—such as Christianity, Hinduism, and Islam—for its distinctive approach. It advocates for peaceful coexistence, making no attempts to proselytize or persecute based on differing beliefs. In a time when messages of non-violence and personal responsibility are critically pertinent, Buddhism offers insights and guidance for a harmonious way of life.

This course offers an immersive exploration into the core facets of Buddhism:

  1. Historical Overview: Delve into the factual history of Buddha's life, understanding his journey and the context in which his teachings emerged.
  2. Fundamental Teachings: Familiarize yourself with the cornerstone concepts of Buddhism, including the Four Noble Truths, the Eightfold Path to Enlightenment, and the Five Noble Precepts.
  3. Karma and Rebirth: Grasp the intricate nature of Karma and demystify the Buddhist concept of Rebirth, distinguishing it from the reincarnation beliefs found in Hinduism and other traditions.
  4. Evolution of Buddhist Philosophy: Trace the 2500-year journey of Buddhism, analyzing its evolution and branching into three main sects, each offering unique perspectives and practices.
  5. Nirvana and Enlightenment: Dive into introspective sessions, understanding the nuanced distinction between Nirvana and Enlightenment, two pivotal goals in Buddhist practice.
  6. Buddhism's Contemporary Influence: As Buddhism's reach extends globally, see its imprint on modern realms, from art and architecture to science, politics, and culture.

Join us on this enlightening journey, not just as an academic pursuit but as a transformative experience. Equip yourself with a deeper understanding of a philosophy that has, for millennia, provided direction, solace, and answers to humanity's most profound questions.

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Course Motivation


  • Completely Online
  • Self-Paced
  • Printable Lessons
  • Full HD Video  
  • 6 Months to Complete
  • 24/7 Availability
  • Start Anytime
  • PC & Mac Compatible
  • Android & iOS Friendly
  • Accredited CEUs
Universal Class is an IACET Accredited Provider
 

Course Lessons

Average Lesson Rating:
4.5 / 5 Stars (Average Rating)
"Extraordinarily Helpful"
(984 votes)

Lesson 1: Who Was the Buddha?

This lesson will examine some of the facts and legends about the life of the Buddha. Additional lesson topics: Buddha; The Buddha 40 Total Points
  • Lesson 1 Video A
  • Lesson 1 Video B : Class Discussion
  • Lesson discussions: Buddhism Course; Reasons for Taking this Course
  • Complete Assignment: An Introduction
  • Complete: Lesson 1 Assignment
  • Assessment: Lesson 1: Who Was the Buddha?

Lesson 2: The Four Noble Truths of Buddhism

This lesson will examine the basis of Buddha's teaching of the Four Noble Truths, the core philosophy and practice of Buddhism. Additional lesson topics: Essentials of Buddhism 39 Total Points
  • Lesson 2 Video A
  • Lesson 2 Video B : Class Discussion
  • Complete: Lesson 2 Assignment
  • Assessment: Lesson 2: The Four Noble Truths of Buddhism

Lesson 3: The Eightfold Path

This lesson will present the structure and sequence of the Eightfold Path to Enlightenment. Additional lesson topics: The Eightfold Path 10 Total Points
  • Lesson 3 Video A
  • Lesson 3 Video B : Class Discussion
  • Assessment: Lesson 3: The Eightfold Path

Lesson 4: The Five Precepts

This lesson will teach the five moral precepts of Buddhist practice. Additional lesson topics: Questions and Answers; The Five Precepts 15 Total Points
  • Lesson 4 Video A
  • Lesson 4 Video B : Class Discussion
  • Lesson discussions: Five Precepts
  • Assessment: Lesson 4: The Five Precepts

Lesson 5: Karma

This lesson will explore the topic of Karma. Additional lesson topics: Karma; The Theory of Karma 35 Total Points
  • Lesson 5 Video A
  • Lesson 5 Video B : Class Discussion
  • Lesson discussions: Karma
  • Complete: Lesson 5 Assignment
  • Assessment: Lesson 5: Karma

Lesson 6: The Cycle of Birth

This lesson will explore the Buddhist view of the cycle of rebirth. Additional lesson topics: Rebirth 15 Total Points
  • Lesson 6 Video A
  • Lesson 6 Video B : Class Discussion
  • Assessment: Lesson 6: The Cycle of Birth

Lesson 7: The History of Buddhism

This lesson offers an overview of the history of Buddhism around the world. Additional lesson topics: Buddhism History; The History of Buddhism 13 Total Points
  • Lesson 7 Video A
  • Lesson 7 Video B : Class Discussion
  • Assessment: Lesson 7: The History of Buddhism

Lesson 8: Buddhist Art and Architecture

This lesson will provide an overview of Buddhist art and architecture. Additional lesson topics: Buddhist Art and Architecture; Tibetan Buddhist Art 12 Total Points
  • Lesson 8 Video A
  • Lesson 8 Video B : Class Discussion
  • Assessment: Lesson 8: Buddhist Art and Architecture

Lesson 9: Roots and Branches

This lesson discusses the philosophical differences between some of the branches of Buddhism Additional lesson topics: Organization of Buddhism; Three Branches of Buddhism 14 Total Points
  • Lesson 9 Video A
  • Lesson 9 Video B : Class Discussion
  • Assessment: Lesson 9: Roots and Branches

Lesson 10: Nirvana

This lesson will analyze the concept of Nirvana. Additional lesson topics: Nirvana; What is Nirvana? 11 Total Points
  • Lesson 10 Video A
  • Lesson 10 Video B : Class Discussion
  • Assessment: Lesson 10: Nirvana

Lesson 11: Modern Buddhism

This lesson will examine the impact of Buddhism on modern life. Additional lesson topics: Buddhism Culture; The Dalai Lama 80 Total Points
  • Lesson 11 Video A
  • Lesson 11 Video B : Class Discussion
  • Lesson discussions: What do you think about this course?; Program Evaluation Follow-up Survey (End of Course); Course Comments
  • Complete: Lesson 11 Assignment
  • Assessment: Lesson 11: Modern Buddhism
  • Assessment: The Final Exam
284
Total Course Points
 

Learning Outcomes

By successfully completing this course, students will be able to:
  • Summarize who Buddha is.
  • Describe The Four Noble Truths of Buddhism, the Eightfold Path, and the Five Precepts.
  • Define and recognize karma.
  • Describe the cycle of birth.
  • Summarize the history of Buddhism.
  • Describe Buddhist art and architecture.
  • Describe roots and branches of Buddhism.
  • Define nirvana.
  • Demonstrate mastery of lesson content at levels of 70% or higher.
 

Additional Course Information

Online CEU Certificate
  • Document Your Lifelong Learning Achievements
  • Earn an Official Certificate Documenting Course Hours and CEUs
  • Verify Your Certificate with a Unique Serial Number Online
  • View and Share Your Certificate Online or Download/Print as PDF
  • Display Your Certificate on Your Resume and Promote Your Achievements Using Social Media
Document Your CEUs on Your Resume
 
Course Title: Buddhism 101
Course Number: 8900294
Lessons Rating: 4.5 / 5 Stars (984 votes)
Languages: English - United States, Canada and other English speaking countries
Availability: This course is online and available in all 50 states including: California, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, New York, Pennsylvania, Ohio, Texas, and Washington.
Last Updated: September 2023
Course Type: Self-Paced, Online Class
CEU Value: 0.8 IACET CEUs (Continuing Education Units)
CE Accreditation: Universal Class, Inc. has been accredited as an Authorized Provider by the International Association for Continuing Education and Training (IACET).
Grading Policy: Earn a final grade of 70% or higher to receive an online/downloadable CEU Certification documenting CEUs earned.
Assessment Method: Lesson assignments and review exams
Syllabus: View Syllabus
Course Fee: $120.00 U.S. dollars

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Student Testimonials

  • "Thank you for a great course on Buddhism. It met my requirements as I sought to learn something of this religion in order to evaluate if I wished to pursue it further. I found the lessons easy to follow and the additional resources very helpful. I do not think there is a need for anything additional aspects of the subject that need inclusion as Buddhism is such a large subject. I believe the current course structure serves as an awesome introduction to the subject. I enjoyed the course and am now beginning to pursue other avenues of engagement with Buddhism." -- Lynnette M.
  • "The instructor was very knowledgeable, positive, and prompt in response to my submissions. Thank you for giving me an opportunity to develop an understanding of Buddhism." -- Shawna B.
  • "I think it was helpful that the instructor was available to answer my questions on a timely basis and was was open to me to share my ideas of Buddhism with him even though those ideas wasn't part of the written course. Also, I thought it was great that the instructor did videos on his own to explain the course material and 'bring it all home' which was helpful to really comprehend the material on a deeper level. He also seemed passionate about Buddhism in his videos which made the videos more interesting." -- Cindy C.
  • "The instructor is very friendly and kind and he replies almost immediately." -- Jaquie B.
  • "The instructor answered quickly and detailed." -- Karin V.
  • "All the readings were appropriate as were the assignments. Thanks so much for the timeliness of your feedback." -- Kathleen S.
  • "Very nicely done. Much of the information I read came together more clearly for me through the required essays. Thank you! I was looking for an overall understanding of Buddhism. This class did provide that, and more. The most helpful areas were the actual teachings of the Buddha." -- BARBARA P.
  • "The instructor was very in-depth when grading assignments. She added the information that would have made my assignment more well rounded and it taught me to read and review before completing. Thank you." -- Pam N.

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