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The Program > Accreditation

Seminary Accreditation/Transfer of Credits

Five Mountain Buddhist Seminary is a religious degree granting institution. Currently, Five Mountain Buddhist Seminary does not hold accreditation from any US Department of Education approved regional or national accrediting organization.

In the United States, accreditation of universities and seminaries is a voluntary process with accreditation granted by private, non-governmental agencies. As a religious degree granting institution, we are not required by the U.S. Dept. of Education to have regional accreditation.

Decisions concerning the acceptance of Five Mountain's credits by any institution are made at the sole discretion of the receiving institution. Five Mountain Buddhist Seminary makes no representation whatsoever concerning the transferability of any credits to any institution.

It should be noted that degrees, in name only, that do not involve serious study and adequate training may not provide credibility for serving a sangha. Conversely, a degree from an unaccredited institution that is devoid of substantive training, or a degree from a fraudulent school selling diplomas in lieu of real education can adversely affect a sangha member's credibility.

Five Mountain Buddhist Seminary strives to maintain the highest educational standards, incorporating the latest methods of instructional technology, and regular required residencies (retreats).

Pursuing Accreditation

Pursuing membership with an accrediting agency is a process of many years, costing many thousands of dollars. Five Mountain Buddhist Seminary intends to seek accreditation at its earliest opportunity, and is in the process of raising the finances needed to engage and complete this process.

Five Mountain Buddhist Seminary is evaluating accreditation and affiliation possibilities and processes with the World Buddhist University, the Distance Education and Training Council (US Dept. of Education and Council for Higher Education Accreditation approved), and regional accreditation with the north Central Association of Colleges and Schools.

We are also evaluating possible partnerships with other established, accredited Universities.