The Core Foundation Studies include the major topics presented in the Four Tantras (Gyud Zhi), which form the theoretical basis for the practice of Tibetan Medicine. Each semester, several of these topics will be introduced. Students gradually build their knowledge base through the systematic examination and integration of the material as it has been taught for centuries.

Tibetan Medicine Root Tantra

For centuries the Root Tantra has been the essential foundation for all Tibetan Medicine studies. This text clearly introduces all the major topics of the traditional Tibetan Science of Healing. By learning the essential topics covered in the Root Tantra, students are able to fully prepare to integrate the knowledge of each area in greater depth as these topics are presented in a systematic order throughout their course of study.

Tibetan Anatomy & Physiology

The study of Tibetan Anatomy and Physiology covers the formation of the body from conception to death. Students will be introduced systematically to this entire sequence from the initial stages of conception, how the body exists during one’s life, to how it is harmed and perishes in the end. The principles of human conception, stages of development, the shape and interconnection of normal components of the body, how it functions, and how the body dissolves at death the secondary causes, the principles of the appearance of longevity, are among the aspects covered in this course.

Etiology of Illness and Causes of Diseases

This topic of study will show the complete stages of the development of illness in general, i.e. the characteristics of the cause and condition of the producing illness in the constitution of a human being; the way illnesses begin, the nature of becoming an illness, the indications of a manifesting illness, and the categorization of types of disease.

Preventative Medicine

“Living for a long while without illness” is the knowledge of how to protect wellbeing and benefit a person’s life by preventing the occurrence and development of illness in a person’s constitution. Preventative medicine includes the first two of the four principle treatments in Tibetan Medicine, diet and behavior, the last two being medicine and external therapies. These are key factors in the promotion of health. Restoring the essence or “bcud len” will also be introduced during this topic which is part of the topic of Fertility Treatment as well as Geriatrics.

Tibetan Pharmacology

Pharmacology is the training and introduction of administering medicinal compounds for the human body, the third of the four principle treatments of Tibetan Medicine.  Covering the basic principles of preparing medicinal substances according to a typology of taste and nature. The Tibetan Pharmcopeia is covered in this extensive section, including identification, taste, nature and benefit of hundreds of medicinal substances.

External Therapies

The external therapies are among the fourth of the four principle treatments in Tibetan Medicine (diet, behavior, herbs, and external therapies). External therapies include both strong and gentle applications of a variety of techniques that include moxibustion, compresses, medicinal bath, medicinal poultices, and Massage Therapy.

Diagnostics

Students will be introduced to the practical theory of investigating and examining the basis of an illness through the three primary components of diagnosis in the Tibetan tradition: observation through touch including pulse analysis; observation through sight including urinalysis; and observation through listening including diagnostic interview.

Methods of Treatment

This topic covers treatment protocols, therapeutic principles and  treatment methods for different classes and stages of illness.

Tibetan Language
Although the program is presented entirely in English, students need to acquire basic reading, writing, and listening skills in the Tibetan language in order to refer to the huge body of literature on Tibetan medicine, as yet untranslated, as well as the primary texts used in the program. The Tibetan language is unrivaled for its sophisticated and subtle contexts in relating nuances of physical and mental harmony or disharmony.

Knowledge of the original language of Tibetan medicine will enable students in the program to better grasp the complex terminology and contextual meanings. Beginning with the basics of the Tibetan alphabet and grammar, by the end of semester three you will be able to understand basic sentence structure and be able to sound out loud Tibetan words and sentences.

Tibetan History and Cultural Studies
In order to fully grasp the magnitude of Tibetan medicine, students need to understand the historical and cultural traditions from which Tibetan medicine arises. Over the course of their studies at the Shang Shung Institute, students will be introduced to the rich oral and historical commentaries associated with the Tibetan Medicine tradition in the form of stories, mythologies, and allegories that have evolved for centuries. This is traditionally considered part of every practitioner of Tibetan Medicine’s training.

Practicum Clinical Trainings
The core foundation studies are complemented by practicums on various topics including experimentation with taste; simple food and kitchen medicine preparation; self-massage; basic introduction to observation for diagnosis; in-depth work on creating a treatment plan for clients; observation of clinical diet and lifestyle consultation; and application between classmates of diet and lifestyle treatment plan.

Applications are considered on a rolling basis, however, in order to ensure a place, you are advised to submit your application materials and fee ($50) two months prior to the semester since enrollment is limited. The next cohort of the Tibetan Medicine Diet & Lifestyle Counselor Program will start in the beginning of January, 2025. To ask any questions regarding application and/or to apply go to the Inquire Here Page.

Enrollment Deposit
25% of tuition is due upon enrollment into the program and will be applied toward the first semester tuition bill.

Enrollment Fee
$50.00 per semester

Tuition 

Tibetan Medicine Diet & Lifestyle Program
Semesters 1 – 3: $2,135 each
Total Tuition: $6,405*

*2025 rates, subject to change.

School Payment Plan
Candidates may opt into a payment plan of four (4) monthly payments over a semester period.

Example Payment Plan Option for Semesters
Payment 1: 25% + $50 Admin fee. Due upon enrollment.
Payment 2: 25% one month after enrollment
Payment 3: 25% two months after enrollment
Payment 4: 25% three months after enrollment

Incidental expenses, like travel, food or lodging, are not included in tuition.