Vedic History
Vedic Sociology
Vedic Science
Sanskrit
Vedic Psychology
Vedic Morality
Vedic Art
Dialectic Spiritualism
World Religion
Transcendental Management
Yukta Computers
Vaisnava Arcana (Deity Worship)

Vedic History

VH201 Mahabharata (Adi-parva), 3 credits - A study of the world's longest epic poem, seven times the length of the Illiad and Oddysey combined, also known as the "Fifth Veda" composed by Veda Vyasadeva and scribed by Ganesa. This introductory chapter describes the valor of kings, an historical background to the dynasty into which the Pandavas were born, and many activities of the Pandavas such as the fire at the house of lac, killing Hidimba, acquiring Draupadi, acquiring a kingdom, etc.

VH202 Mahäbhärata (Sabha-parva), 3 credits - A study of the Pandavas acquiring the assembly house built by the architect Maya, performing the Rajasuya Sacrifice, the killing of Sisupala, the gambling match, exile to the forest.

VH203 Mahäbhärata(Vana-parva), 3 credits - A study of the Pandavas living in the forest after having lost their kingdom, the celestial travels of Arjuna to acquire weapons, Arjuna's fights with foes, the rescue of Duryodhana by Arjuna, etc.

VH204 Mahäbhärata (Viräöa-parva), 3 credits - A study of the Pandavas' last year in exile while incognito within the kingdom of Virata; Bhima's killing Kicaka, Arjuna defeats the Kaurava thieves, Uttara bequeathed to Arjuna's son Abhimanyu, Pandavas' real identity revealed, Virata pledges support for the Pandavas in the upcoming battle, etc.

VH205 Mahäbhärata (Udyoga-parva), 3 credits - A study of the events after the Pandavas' exile, Krsna personally attempts to arrange a peaceful settlement between the Kurus and the Pandavas, Duryodhana refuses to part with even five villages for the Pandavas to rule; Bhisma, Drona and others side with Duryodhana, war is declared and preparations for the battle are undertaken.

VH206 Mahäbhärata (Bhisma Parva), 3 credits - A study of the first days of fighting at the Battle of Kuruksetra, includes Bhagavad-gita, the Song of God, sung by Lord Krsna the chariot-driver to Arjuna before the battle begins, the defeat of Bhisma by Arjuna and Sikandi, Bhisma lying on the bed of arrows, etc.

VH207 Mahäbhärata (Drona-parva), 3 credits - A study of the battle with Drona as commander of the Kaurava army, Abhimanyu killed unfairly, Jayadratha slain, Drona's death at the hands of Drstadyumna, Asvatthama's discharging the brahmastra weapon, etc.

VH208 Mahäbhärata (Karna-parva), 3 credits - A study of the battle with Karna as commander of the Kaurava army, Salya agrees to become the chariot driver for Karna, Karna defeats each of the Pandavas but spares them, Bhima fulfills his vow and drinks Dussasana's heart-blood, Karna defeated by Arjuna, etc

VH209 Mahäbhärata (Çalya -parva), 3 credits - A study of the battle with Salya as commander of the Kaurava army, Salya slain by Yudhisthira, Sakuni slain by Sahadeva, the club duel between Duryodhana and Bhima wherein Duryodhana's unprotected thighs are attacked, etc.

VH210 Mahäbhärata (Sauptika-parva), 3 credits - A study of the insidious activities of Kritavarma, Kripa and Asvatthama killing the sons of the Pandavas in their sleep, Arjuna's neutralization of Asvatthama's nuclear brahmastra weapon, the apprehension of Asvatthama and his punishment in the presence of Draupadi and Krsna.

VH211 Mahäbhärata (Stri-parva), 3 credits - A study of Dhrtarastra's destroying the statue of Bhima substituted by Krsna, Vidura's instructions to Dhrtarastra, the lamentation of the ksatriya ladies seeing their loved-ones slain at the battlefield, Krsna pacifying Gandhari, the cremation with religious rites by King Yudhisthira.

VH212 Mahäbhärata (Santi-parva), 3 credits - A study of Yudhisthira's despondency following the destruction of so many persons in the battle of Kuruksetra, Grandfather Bhisma's instructions to Yudhisthira from the bed of arrows regarding various systems of duties, including duties in emergency and finally Bhisma's explanation of the ultimate perfection in life.

VH213 Mahäbhärata (Anuñäsana-parva), 3 credits - A study of Bhisma's further instructions to Yudhisthira regarding the duties of men through dharma, artha, charity, truth, respecting the virtues of brahmanas and cows, and Bhisma's glorious departure by his own will.

VH214 Mahäbhärata (Asvamedhika-parva), 3 credits - A study of the birth of Pariksit despite being attacked by Asvatthama's weapon, the challenge horse sent by Yudhisthira and the battles of Arjuna with princes who seized the horse, including his own son Vabhruvahana in Manipura, and acquisition of gold and the performance of the horse sacrifice.

VH215 Mahäbhärata (Asramavasika-parva), 3 credits - A study of Dhrtarastra's abdicating the kingdom, going to the forest followed by his wife Gandhari and both entering the fire, Narada's meeting with Yudhisthira explaining the withdrawal of the Yadu dynasty by the will of Krsna.

VH216 Mahäbhärata (Mausala-parva), 3 credits - A study of the annihilation of the Yadu dynasty at Prabhasa caused by the curse of the brahmanas, the ksatriyas drinking rice wine, the harsh words between themselves, the fighting with iron kusa stalks, the departure of Lord Krsna, Arjuna's defeat while protecting the queens of Dvaraka.

VH217 Mahäbhärata (Mahaprasthanika-parva), 3 credits - A study of the final renunciation of the Pandavas and their wife Draupadi, how Yudhisthira fixed his mind on the supreme and did not look back upon his brothers and wife as they dropped off along the journey.

VH218 Mahäbhärata (Svarga-parva), 3 credits - A study of Yudhisthira's seeing hell and his subsequent attainment to the heavenly abode.

VH219 Ramayana, 3 credits - A study of Valmiki Muni's epic: the rule of Maharaja Dasaratha, his three wives, his four sons, the marriage of Rama to Sita after breaking Lord Siva's bow, the coronation of the king's eldest son Ramacandra stopped by Queen Kaikeyi and Lord Rama's banishment to the forest for fourteen years.

VH220 Ramayana, 3 credits - A study of Lord Ramacandra, Laksman and Sita in the forest during the time of exile. The killing of demons; abduction of Sita by Ravana; Rama's alliance with Hanuman and Sugriva; war with Ravana and rescue of Sita.

VH221 Rämäyaëa, 3 credits - A study of Lord Rama and Sita's return to Ayodhya; Rama's rule; the exiling Sita for the forest; Sita's stay at Valmiki's asrama; the birth of Lord Rama and Sita's sons Lava and Kusa; the meeting between Rama and His sons; the departure of Sita.

VH222 Puranic Literature, 3 credits - This course provides an overview of the Vedic historical scriptures known as the Puranas. It also focuses on the most important subjects contained in each.

VH223 Vaisnava Sampradayas, 3 credits - A study of the Brahma, Rudra, Sri and Kumara lines of disciplic succession and their modern counterparts, Madhvacarya, Visnuswami, Ramanujacarya and Nimbarka through comparison of philosophy.

VH224 Gaudiya Acaryas, 3 credits - A well-rounded study of the lives of many Vaisnava saints such as Narottama dasa Thakura, Madhvacarya, Ramanujacarya, etc.

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Vedic Sociology (Varnasrama)

VS201 Four Types of Varnasrama, 3 credits - A study of asuric, ordinary, daivi and emergency varnasrama systems. Explanation of proper and improper understandings of each.

VS202 Study of the Brahmana Varna, 3 credits - A study of the occupations, qualities and duties of those who wish to be saintly teachers.

VS203 Study of the Ksatriya Varna, 3 credits - A study of the occupations, qualities and duties of those who wish to be administrators, rulers or warriors.

VS204 Study of the Vaisya Varna, 3 credits - A study of the occupations, qualities and duties of those who wish to be agriculturalists or mercantilers.

VS205 Study of the Sudra Varna, 3 credits - A study of the occupations, qualities and duties of those who wish to be artisans and laborers.

VS206 Study of the Brahmacari Asrama, 3 credits - A study of the requirements, qualities and duties of those who wish to be celibate students.

VS207 Study of the Grhastha Asrama, 3 credits - A study of the requirements, qualities and duties of those who wish to be householders and family persons.

VS208 Study of the Vanaprastha Asrama, 3 credits - A study of the occupations, qualities and duties of those who wish to be retired householders.

VS209 Study of the Sannyasa Asrama, 3 credits - A study of the occupations, qualities and duties of those who wish to be in the renounced order of life.

VS210 Implementing Varnasrama in Modern Times, 3 credits - A think-tank seminar based on Vedic principles. As brahmanas formerly gave guidance to society, this course will draw up suggestions to be submitted to social leaders.

VS211 Overcoming Objections to Varnasrama, 3 credits - The vitiated caste system is today's burnt remnant of the original God-created varnasrama system. This course traces the degradation and counteracts fallacies.

VS212 Corruption of Varnasrama, 3 credits - A look at present corruption which pervades the vitiated caste system. Based on birthrights and envy, this unfair practice restricts progress.

VS213 Varnasrama in ISKCON, 3 credits - This course examines how Srila Prabhupada introduced aspects of varnasrama into ISKCON and considers what role he expected ISKCON to play in bringing about wide varnasrama principles into the greater social structure.

VS214 The Role of Women in Vedic Culture, 3 credits - A close look at the traditional role women have played in Vedic culture, the role women have played in ISKCON and the trends for the future roles.

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Vedic Science

VC201 Forbidden Archeology, 3 credits - Using the Hidden History of the Human Race as a textbook, this course uncovers the knowledge filter which has supported Darwin's Theory of Evolution.

VC202 Darwin's Theory, 3 credits - Critiquing Darwin's Theory with the Vedic knowledge emphasizing the lack of knowledge of the soul, the difficulties of atheism, the fallacies of speculation and borrowed partial Vedic concepts.

VC203 Vedic Cosmology, 3 credits - The fifth canto of the Srimad Bhagavatam provides a detailed view of the universe we live in. Its dimensions, inhabitation, etc.

VC204 Big Bang Theory, 3 credits - The modern "Big Bang Theory" is critically examined in Vedic light. Mahatattva may be accepted as the initial mass but where did it come from?

VC205 Galaxies Theory, 3 credits - Examination of the defects of Hubble telescope and its observers. How data is inaccurately acquired, analyzed, presented, and extrapolated upon.

VC206 Moon Trip Theory, 3 credits - An evaluation of the American "moon walk" from the Vedic perspective questioning whether such excursions are possible for earthlings. Also recent moon visit hoax exposes considered.

VC207 Conception and Birth, 3 credits - A stimulating study tracing the soul's journey through conception into a chapter of life beginning from garbhadana samskara to the seed to the formation of the body with gender.

VC208 Consciousness, 3 credits - An examination of the unique, yet scientifically allusive substance called consciousness. Shows how consciousness is verifiable yet not understood materially.

VC209 Universal Origins, 3 credits - A Vedic explanation of the creation of the universe. The course covers gross universal origins as well as elemental, sensual and subtle evolution.

VC210 Time From the Atom, 3 credits - This course examines the Bhagavata Purana's exposition that time is calculated by the passing of the sun across atoms. A remarkable explanation that sheds light on universal relativity.

VC211 Metaphysics, 3 credits - Defining questions that are unanswerable to scientific observation, analysis, or experiment and then solving them through Vedic knowledge.

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Sanskrit

SA201 Sanskrit Grammar, 3 credits

SA202 Sanskrit Grammar I (Intermediate), 3 credits

SA203 Sanskrit Grammar II (Intermediate), 3 credits

SA204 Sanskrit Grammar III (Intermediate), 3 credits

SA205 Sanskrit Grammar I (Advanced), 3 credits

SA206 Sanskrit Grammar II (Advanced), 3 credits

SA207 Sanskrit Grammar III (Advanced), 3 credits

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Vedic Psychology

PS201 Bhagavad-gita Dialogue, 3 credits - This course considers how Lord Krsna as the chariot driver at Kuruksetra took the role of psychoanalyst and examines his patient Arjuna.

PS202 Jada Bharata and King Rahugana Dialogue, 3 credits - This course provides an in-depth analysis of how the sage Jada Bharata thousands of years ago logically explained the science of self-realization to the proud king Rahugana.

PS203 The Subtle Body; Mind, Intelligence and False Ego, 3 credits - This course defines the three subtle aspects and identifies the functions of each as a component of a living being's consciousness. Finally the subtle body is contrasted with the individual spirit soul as only Vedic literature is equipped to do.

PS204 The Mind-Body Problem, 3 credits - This course examines the modern scientific dilemma of mind and body in Vedic diagnostic terms. Furthermore students will participate in drawing up a paper explaining the problem and its solutions which is be sent to scientists.

PS205 Psychology of a Woman, 3 credits - This course considers the unique phenomenon of woman from the Vedic viewpoint with regard to general qualities and compares this view with the modern woman's liberational concepts.

PS206 Psychology of Lower Species, 3 credits - This course delves into understanding whether or not lower species such as animals, insects and plants have consciousness, minds and souls. This examination is done in partnership with the exposition of the three modes of material nature given in the Bhagavad-gita. Among others, the psychology of taming of a lion and a dog's loyalty will be explored.

PS207 Psychoanalysis and the Soul: Freud, Jung and Sartre, 3 credits - This course studies the comments by Srila A.C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada, representing the Vedic viewpoint, in discussions of three famous propounders of the modern psychoanalysis methodology.

PS208 Three Modes of Material Nature Analysis, 3 credits - This course is based on the work done by Dhira Govinda dasa (David Wolf PhD.) in analyzing a human being's mental characteristics in terms of the three modes of material nature as described in the Bhagavad-gita and other Vedic writings.

PS209 Three Modes of Material Nature Analysis II, 3 credits - This course is based on the work done by Dhira Govinda dasa (David Wolf PhD.) in analyzing a human being's mental characteristics in terms of the three modes of material nature as described in the Bhagavad-gita and other Vedic writings.

PS210 Brahminical Counseling I, 3 credits - This course examines the role of the brahmana in a Vedic society especially in his capacity as a counselor for government leaders, householders, and students.

PS211 Brahminical Counseling II, 3 credits - This course considers what changes modern brahmana counselors would need to make in their services if as to replace or improve the work done by present-day psychologists, psychiatrists, and counselors.

PS212 Training New Devotees, 3 credits - This course focuses on the psychological methodology utilized in training neophytes in the science of bhakti-yoga. The textbook is Fortunate Souls by Danavir Goswami (Dr. Dane Holtzman).

PS213 Effects of the Hare Krsna Mantra on Stress, Depression and the three Gunas, 3 credits - This course designed by David Wolf Ph.D. analyzes data according to prevailing professional psychological methods.

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Vedic Morality

VM201 Canakya Sloki I, 3 credits—This course studies the writings of one of the world's most famous exponents of Vedic morality (Niti-sastra), Canakya Pandita. Canakya Pandita, the royal minister for King Candragupta, guided the king to amazing success by using Vedic knowledge, logic and practical application.

VM202 Canakya Sloki II, 3 credits—This course studies the writings of one of the world's most famous exponents of Vedic morality (Niti-sastra), Canakya Pandita. Canakya Pandita, the royal minister for King Candragupta, guided the king to amazing success by using Vedic knowledge, logic and practical application.

VM203 Canakya Sloki III, 3 credits—This course studies the writings of one of the world's most famous exponents of Vedic morality (Niti-sastra), Canakya Pandita. Canakya Pandita, the royal minister for King Candragupta, guided the king to amazing success by using Vedic knowledge, logic and practical application.

VM204 Manu Samhita (highlights) I, 3 credits—This course studies Vaivasvata Manu's "Law Book for Mankind". Complete laws for all sections of society are given as well as the rules for punishment of wrongdoers.

VM205 Manu Samhita (highlights) II, 3 credits—This course further analyzes Manu's work in terms of its effect on modern law and punishment. How today's systems of law and justice are viewed in light of Manu's instructions. The class will make a statement about whether implementing Manu Samhita principles would improve society.

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Vedic Art

VA201 Vedic Art Appreciation, 3 credits—This course provides a panorama of ISKCON art beginning from the first Back To Godhead magazine. Srila A.C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada's guiding instructions to artists is highlighted. Also the class will consider how much the Supreme Artist, Sri Krsna, plays a part in guiding the hand of artist.

VA202 Introduction to Vedic Art, 3 credits—A beginning course for artists wishing to use or discover their talent in devotional drawing and painting. Involves practical art projects as well. Instruction from ISKCON's greatest artists is used.

VA203 Intermediate Vedic Art, 3 credits—For Intro Vedic Art (VA202) students who showed promise. Further development of techniques and more practical projects at teacher's discretion.

VA204 Introductory Diorama Sculpture, 3 credits—This course reviews the traditional system of dioramas used in Vedic culture. It also considers the background to use of dioramas and stress by Srila Bhaktisiddhanta Sarasvati Thakura. Finally it looks at ISKCON diorama projects to date. Techniques are discussed and a beginning project is undertaken.

VA205 Intermediate Diorama Sculpture, 3 credits—Development of techniques and further practical projects under the close supervision of the teacher and advanced students.

VA206 Advanced Diorama Sculpture, 3 credits—Students are put in charge of a major diorama project which is to be displayed at the college and other cultural forums.

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Dialectic Spiritualism

DS201 Dialectic with Greek Philosophers, 3 credits—This course examines the comments of Srila A.C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada, representing the Vedic literature, on the works of Plato, Aristotle, and other Greek philosophers.

DS202 Dialectic with Existentialists, 3 credits—This course examines the comments of Srila A.C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada, representing the Vedic literature, on the works of existentialists such as Sartre.

DS203 Dialectic with Pragmatists, 3 credits—This course examines the comments of Srila A.C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada, representing the Vedic literature, on the works of modern pragmatists.

DS204 Dialectic with Mayavadis, 3 credits—This course examines the writings of Madhavacarya, Ramanujacarya and Sri Caitanya Mahaprabhu, representing the Vedic literature, opposing the works of Sankaracarya, the foremost of recent Mayavada philosophers.

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World Religions

WR201 Comparing World Religions, 3 credits—This course examines present-day religious systems and identifies common principles with the Vedic. Concepts of soul, characteristics of God, the behavior of a devotee of God and means to attain love of God in each tradition will be considered.

WR202 Countering Religious Arguments, 3 credits—This course studies the types of apparently-religious opposition followers of Vedic teachings face. Questions relating to: idol worship, celibacy, reincarnation, a personal God, vegetarianism and grace are considered.

WR203 Correcting World Religions, 3 credits—The class analyzes the major defects in today's application of religious systems in light of Vedic wisdom and then formulates a proposal for rectification.

WR204 Uniting World Religion, 3 credits—The class formulates a broad program for world unification of religious systems based on the Vedic system. Special consideration will be given to the sankirtana movement inaugurated by Sri Caitanya Mahaprabhu as the yuga avatara.

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Transcendental Management

MN201 ISKCON Management System, 3 credits—This course examines the extraordinary success which Srila A.C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada had in setting up a world movement. Emphasis given to GBC, individuals' roles in the society, financial viability, stress on devotional practices, etc.

MN202 Srila Prabhupada's Principles, 3 credits—This course examines a modern writer's (the author of "Make a Sound Like a Cheese") appreciation of Srila A.C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada's extraordinary management skills. Further background from Vedic sources furnished.

MN203 Modern Ksatriyas, 3 credits—This course examines the classical Vedic qualifications for administrative leaders and takes help from Srila Prabhupada in painting an interesting portrait; namely: "What would a ksatriya look like in 2000 A.D."?

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Yukta Computers

YC201 Intro to Yukta Computers, 3 credits—An introduction to the philosophy of how to use computers in bhakti-yoga and how to avoid material entanglement while using computers. Also practical introductory training in variegated computer skills such as word processing, e-mail, internet, layout, data storage, etc.

YC202 Yukta Computer Graphics, 3 credits—Includes training in color and grayscale layout and design work for printing and websites. Using PageMaker, Corel draw, Photoshop, etc.

YC203 Yukta Computer Digital Audio Processing, 3 credits—Students are taught the value of and participate in the making of Krsna conscious cd's and other audio formats.

YC204 Yukta Computer Digital Video Processing, 3 credits—Students are taught the value of and participate in the making of Krsna conscious video graphic productions.

YC205 Yukta Computer Accounting, 3 credits—Students are taught the value of and participate in the coordination of Krsna conscious accounts using "Quickbooks" "Peachtree" and similar programs.

YC206 Yukta Computer Communication, 3 credits—Students are taught the value of and participate in the use of internet, e-mail, websites, and other methods of communication.

YC207 Yukta Computer Desktop Publishing, 3 credits—Students are taught the value of and participate in the production of Krsna conscious literary publications. Includes all aspects of publishing literature such as writing, editing, prepress, printing and distribution.

YC208 Yukta Computer Infobase, 3 credits—Students are taught the value of and participate in the use of Krsna conscious InfoBase programs such as Bhaktivedanta Folio produced by BBT Archives.

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Vaisnava Arcana
(Deity Worship)

VW201 Philosophy of Arcana, 3 credits—A thorough examination of the concept of Deity worship techniques as provided in Bhakti Rasamrita Sindhu and Srimad Bhagavatam, twelfth canto, etc. and the qualifications for worshipping.

VW202 Practical Arcana, 3 credits—(prerequisite VA201 and students must be initiated brahmanas) Students are engaged in actual worship activities such as arati, bathing of Deities, performance of fire yajna, marriage ceremonies, samskaras, etc. under the direction of the instructor.

VW203 Practical Arcana II, 3 credits—(prerequisite VA201 and students must be initiated brahmanas) Students are asked to organize actual worship activities such as arati, bathing of Deities, performance of fire yajna, marriage ceremonies, samskaras, etc. under the direction of the instructor.

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