Naropa University crest

Naropa University

Boulder, United States Founded 1974

Updated Jun 2026

Overview

Acronyms: NU
Founded: 1974
Institution Type: University
Control Type: Private
Entity Type: Non-profit
Religious Affiliation: Buddhism
The Naropa University campus grounds
1 / 3

Established in 1974, the Naropa University is a non-profit private higher education institution located in the urban setting of the small city of Boulder (population range of 50,000-249,999 inhabitants), Colorado.

Officially accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, Naropa University (NU) is a very small-sized coeducational US higher education institution formally affiliated with the Buddhist religion. Naropa University (NU) offers courses and programs leading to officially recognized higher education degrees such as pre-bachelor's degrees (i.e. certificates, diplomas, associate or foundation), bachelor's degrees and master's degrees in several areas of study.

This 50-year-old US higher-education institution has a selective admission policy based on entrance examinations and students' past academic records and grades. The acceptance rate range is 100% making this US higher education organization a non-selective institution.

International applicants are eligible to apply for enrollment.

NU also provides several academic and non-academic facilities and services to students including a library, housing, financial aids and/or scholarships, study abroad and exchange programs, online courses and distance learning opportunities, as well as administrative services.

Location & Contact

Naropa University's physical location and the contact details prospective students typically need before applying or visiting. Channels listed below come from the institution's published profile.

Address: 2130 Arapahoe Avenue
Postal Code: 80302-6697
Phone: +1 (303) 444 0202
Fax: +1 (303) 546 3583
Social Media:

Academic Details

Naropa University's institutional metrics — useful for sizing it against other shortlisted universities. The proportion of academic staff with doctorates correlates with research output and graduate-school admissions.

Recognition: Higher Learning Commission
Total Students: 339
Student Enrollment: 500
Academic Staff Range: 200-299
Campus Setting: Urban
Memberships & Networks
Council of Independent Colleges (CIC)

Programs Offered

Naropa University's programmes, with filter and level-based grouping. The combination of search and tier view makes shortlisting faster across large catalogues.

22 programmes on record. Each level below shows a sample. Compare these on the programs page All programs in United States

Bachelor's Degree 12 programmes

Bachelor's Degree in English Language and Literature, General
English Language Studies
Bachelor's Degree in Fine and Studio Arts
Visual Arts
Bachelor's Degree in Movement and Mind-Body Therapies and Education
Health Sciences
Bachelor's Degree in Multi/Interdisciplinary Studies, Other
Liberal Arts
Bachelor's Degree in Music
Music
Bachelor's Degree in Natural Resources Conservation and Research
Forestry & Natural Resources
Bachelor's Degree in Peace Studies and Conflict Resolution
Liberal Arts
Bachelor's Degree in Psychology, General
Psychology
Bachelor's Degree in Rehabilitation and Therapeutic Professions
Rehabilitation Sciences
Bachelor's Degree in Religion/Religious Studies
Philosophy & Ethics

Showing 10 of 12.

Master's Degree 9 programmes

Master's Degree in Clinical, Counseling and Applied Psychology
Clinical Psychology
Master's Degree in Drama/Theatre Arts and Stagecraft
Performing Arts
Master's Degree in Education, Other
Education & Teaching
Master's Degree in Environmental/Natural Resources Management and Policy
Forestry & Natural Resources
Master's Degree in Pastoral Counseling and Specialized Ministries
Religious Studies
Master's Degree in Psychology, Other
Psychology
Master's Degree in Religion/Religious Studies
Philosophy & Ethics
Master's Degree in Rhetoric and Composition/Writing Studies
English Language Studies
Master's Degree in Systems Science and Theory
Liberal Arts

Certificate 1 programme

Certificate in Sports, Kinesiology, and Physical Education/Fitness
Sport and Exercise Science

How to apply to Naropa University

Step-by-step guidance for applying to Naropa University, covering the typical sequence from programme selection to admissions follow-up.

  1. 1
    Find a programme that fits your goals

    Start by exploring the programmes section on this page. Naropa University runs 22 active programmes across multiple degree levels. Narrow by qualification tier and read each programme description before shortlisting.

  2. 2
    Confirm you meet the requirements

    Before applying to Naropa University, confirm you meet the academic, language, and document requirements for your chosen programme. International applicants should also check visa eligibility for United States.

  3. 3
    Assemble your application package

    Standard documents: official transcripts, identity proof, language test results, personal statement, and references. Confirm exact requirements with Naropa University's admissions office before assembling, as expectations vary by programme.

  4. 4
    Submit your application

    Lodge your application through the official website (www.naropa.edu). Online forms are the standard route. Save your draft frequently and submit before the programme deadline.

  5. 5
    Contact admissions and follow up

    Verify your application has been received by the admissions team. You can reach the institution by email at [email protected] or by phone at +1 (303) 444 0202. Monitor the portal for status updates, interview invitations, or document requests, and respond within the stated deadlines.

Frequently Asked Questions about Naropa University

Common questions about Naropa University answered concisely, with each answer grounded in the institution's published data.

How old is Naropa University?

The institution opened in 1974 (approximately 52 years ago).

Where can I find Naropa University?

The institution is located in Boulder, United States.

Is Naropa University public or private?

It is a private higher-education institution.

How many students does Naropa University have?

The institution has a student body of 500-999.

Does Naropa University have a religious affiliation?

Naropa University is associated with Buddhism.

Is Naropa University accredited?

Yes, Naropa University is recognised by Higher Learning Commission.

How do I find Naropa University online?

The institution's website is www.naropa.edu.

Top-Ranked Universities in the United States

These are the most highly ranked universities in the United States. Putting Naropa University alongside them gives a clearer picture of where it sits in the national academic landscape, especially when reputation matters for credential portability.

Members of Council of Independent Colleges (CIC)

Joint research grants among Council of Independent Colleges (CIC) members create funded collaborations that often extend to graduate-student opportunities. The network listed below collaborates regularly with Naropa University.

Other American Universities Affiliated with Buddhism

Universities affiliated with Buddhism often align on chaplaincy provision, campus culture, and community values. These peers of Naropa University carry the same tradition, useful for students prioritising spiritual continuity alongside academic fit.

Faculties at nearby universities

Within easy reach of Naropa University, these institutions host comparable faculties and admissions structures — useful for regional shortlisting. Regional universities often coordinate on credit transfer and joint programme delivery.

Where Else to Study Liberal Arts

For students considering Liberal Arts, these the United States institutions deliver the discipline alongside Naropa University. Look beyond programme names to compare module content, assessment methods, and stated graduate outcomes.

Universities Compared with Naropa University

Joint research consortia among universities at Naropa University's level — shared grants, co-supervision arrangements — make peer institutions natural collaborators rather than just competitors.

Browse all articles →

Spotted something outdated or missing?

Help us keep this page accurate — it takes about 30 seconds.

Explore More Universities in United States

Free calculators and converters to plan your study-abroad journey.

Latest Articles

Fresh guides and advice for studying abroad.

View all →

Compare Compare