Contemplative Studies: Program Overview, Universities, Careers & Salaries
Program Overview
Contemplative Studies explores the foundations of inner awareness and reflective experience through interdisciplinary inquiry. This program investigates how mindfulness, meditation, and introspective practices shape human cognition, emotional well-being, and consciousness, drawing from both ancient traditions and modern scientific research.
- Cognitive Science: Examines how mental processes such as attention, memory, and perception are influenced by contemplative practices, integrating insights from psychology, linguistics, and artificial intelligence.
- Meditation: Studies various formal and informal meditation techniques, including focused attention, open monitoring, and loving-kindness practices, with an emphasis on their practical and theoretical dimensions.
- Mindfulness: Explores the cultivation of present-moment awareness, non-judgmental observation, and intentional living, with applications in mental health, education, and daily life.
- Neuroscience: Investigates the biological and neurological correlates of contemplative states, including brain activity patterns, neuroplasticity, and the physiological effects of sustained practice.
- Philosophy: Engages with ethical, epistemological, and metaphysical questions surrounding consciousness, selfhood, and the nature of reality as explored in contemplative traditions.
- Psychology: Analyzes the psychological impacts of contemplative practices on stress reduction, emotional regulation, and overall mental resilience, grounded in empirical research.
- Religion: Reviews the historical and doctrinal contexts of contemplative traditions across major world religions, including Buddhism, Christianity, Islam, and Hinduism, highlighting shared and distinct approaches.
Contemplative Studies Graduate Trends (2010-2024)
Contemplative Studies Career Pathways & Salary Outlook
The following table presents salary data for occupations typically aligned with Contemplative Studies degrees, including Postsecondary Teachers, All Other, Community and Social Service Specialists, All Other and Directors, Religious Activities and Education. These career paths represent common employment outcomes but are not guaranteed for all graduates. Salary ranges vary by location, employer, experience level, and specific role requirements. Nationally, these occupations employ approximately 604,070 professionals.
National Average Salaries
| Occupation | Median Salary | Salary Range | Total Employment | Hourly Rate |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Postsecondary Teachers, All Other 25-1199 | $78,490 | $39,720 - $172,850 | 151,530 | N/A |
| Community and Social Service Specialists, All Other 21-1099 | $54,940 | $36,470 - $83,210 | 110,390 | $26.41 |
| Directors, Religious Activities and Education 21-2021 | $54,840 | $33,990 - $106,530 | 21,460 | $26.37 |
| Self-Enrichment Teachers 25-3021 | $45,590 | $28,980 - $90,780 | 308,520 | $21.92 |
| Religious Workers, All Other 21-2099 | $45,120 | $29,120 - $75,920 | 12,170 | $21.69 |
Contemplative Studies Salary Map by State
Geographic location significantly impacts earning potential for these careers. Average salaries range from $40,338 in Arkansas to $74,277 in Nebraska—a 84% difference. The highest-paying states include Nebraska, Hawaii, and Massachusetts. Nationwide, these occupations employ over 604,070 professionals across all states. Explore the interactive map below to compare regional compensation and identify optimal markets for your career goals.
Average Salary Range:
Top Universities for Contemplative Studies by Graduate Enrollment
Below are the top 1 institutions offering Contemplative Studies programs for the 2023-2024 academic year (the most recent data reported as of 2025), ranked by the number of graduates. The highest graduate enrollment in Contemplative Studies is found at Brown University (10 graduates). Combined, these colleges produced 10 graduates across all degree levels. Program availability varies by award level, including Associate, Bachelor's, Master's, and Doctoral degrees at participating universities and schools.
| College Name | Award Levels | Graduates | Location | Control | Website |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Brown University |
Bachelor's
|
10 | Providence, Rhode Island | Private | brown.edu |
Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers to the most common questions about Contemplative Studies programs
How much can I earn with a Contemplative Studies degree?
Salaries for Contemplative Studies graduates vary by role and location. Postsecondary Teachers, All Other earn a median of $78,490 annually, while Community and Social Service Specialists, All Other earn around $54,940. Geographic location significantly impacts earnings—professionals in Nebraska average $74,277 compared to $40,338 in Arkansas. Approximately 604,070 professionals work in related occupations nationwide.
Salary data from U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics OEWS program, May 2024. Earnings vary by experience, employer, and market conditions.
Which universities have the largest Contemplative Studies programs?
Currently 1 accredited institutions offer Contemplative Studies degrees across the U.S. Programs with the highest enrollment include Brown University (10 graduates).
Program size doesn't necessarily indicate quality—consider factors like faculty expertise, production opportunities, location, and available degree levels when choosing a school.
Data based on IPEDS program completions for 2023-2024 academic year. Numbers reflect programs where students graduated.
What career paths are available with a Contemplative Studies degree?
This degree prepares you for roles such as Postsecondary Teachers, All Other, Community and Social Service Specialists, All Other, and Directors, Religious Activities and Education. Related occupations employ approximately 604,070 professionals nationwide.
Skills in project management, creative leadership, and collaboration also transfer to event planning, arts administration, marketing, and corporate training roles. Many professionals work freelance or on a project basis across theatre, film, and live events.
Career pathways mapped using CIP-SOC crosswalk from the National Center for Education Statistics. Employment data from BLS OEWS May 2024.
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