Course Title: Diploma in Hindu Studies (Scientific Hinduism)

Course Code: DHS-103

Duration: 1 Year (2 Semesters)

Eligibility: Open to all with interest in Hindu thought (High School minimum preferred)

Credits: 24 Total (12 per semester)

Mode: Online (Self-paced + Live sessions) and Optional In-Person Learning

Language of Instruction: English (with Sanskrit/Devanagari references)

Course Objectives

• Provide a foundational and broad understanding of Hinduism as a living, evolving tradition.
• Explore classical texts (Vedas, Upanishads, Bhagavad Gita, Ramayana, etc.) in translation.
• Develop awareness of Hindu philosophy, spiritual disciplines, social ethics, and festivals.
• Promote intercultural understanding, interfaith dialogue, and moral leadership.

Course Overview:

This diploma program provides an in-depth understanding of Hinduism as a philosophical, spiritual, and cultural tradition. It covers classical scriptures, ethical teachings, rituals, and contemporary relevance. Designed for spiritual seekers, educators, chaplains, interfaith leaders, and scholars.

Semester I Modules:

1. Introduction to Hinduism (3 credits)

• Origins and evolution
• Basic beliefs and concepts
• Devatas and practices
• Diversity within Hindu traditions

2. Vedas and Upanishads: Core Teachings (3 credits)

• Structure of Vedas
• Selected hymns
• Isha, Kena, Mandukya Upanishads
• Themes: Atman, Brahman, Moksha

3. Hindu Philosophy I (3 credits)

• Nyaya, Vaisheshika
• Samkhya and Yoga
• Mimamsa, Vedanta (Advaita, Dvaita, Vishishtadvaita and Traita)

4. Hindu Rituals and Festivals (3 credits)

• 4 Aśramas
• 16 Samskaras
• Daily and seasonal Yajnas
• Festival calendar
• Symbolism and Allegories

Semester II Modules:

5. Bhagavad Gita: Ethics and Action (3 credits)

• Historical context
• Karma Yoga, Bhakti Yoga, Jnana Yoga
• Dharma and moral dilemmas
• Ramayana and Mahabharata (3 credits)
• Characters, values, and narrative arcs
• Influence on art and culture

7. Hindu Dharmasastras: Manusmriti (3 credits)
8. Hinduism and Contemporary Society (3 credits)

• Gender, caste, ecology, pluralism
• Symbols and Allegries in Hinduism
• Diaspora and globalization

Assessment:

• Module quizzes and reflections
• Two mid-term essays
• Final term paper or presentation
• Participation in discussions and live sessions
• Optional Components:
• Sanskrit pronunciation labs
• Weekly guided meditation or mantra sessions

Field assignment with a local Hindu temple or community

Course Fees: 

 Course Registration Fee  is  USD 299. 

At VSVV, we support excellence by providing merit-based scholarships and fee waivers to deserving students.

VIP Variant four  individual Zoom sessions of 45 minutes to 1 hour each

Course Fee : USD 1277

We have limited seats for the VIP Variant.  To apply for VIP variant, submit your consent here with explanation as to why you consider yourself qualified for the VIP variant of the program. Selected applicants will be invited for personal   Zoom session, after which final admission decisions will be taken and and the selected applicants will be informed. 

Course Start Dates:

All digital correspondence and video courses will be offered four times a year, scheduled in alignment with the Vedic Calendar.

1. Uttarāyaṇa Period (Winter Solstice):  Dec. 21 to  20 March

2. Devayāna Period (Vernal Equinox): 21 March to 20 June

3. Dakṣiṇāyana Period (Summer Solstice): 21 June to 22 Sept.

4. Pitṛyāna period (Autumn Equinox): 23 Sept. to 20 Dec.

Note: Course access will remain open only for the specified duration. Participants are advised to complete and access all course materials within this period, as access will not be available once the course window closes.

Registration will  open soon

•  Those who want to participate in the course can register hereunder: