Soka University Of America

A private school in the beautiful small city of Aliso Viejo, California, Soka University offers a scenic setting and a unique approach to education. Right up the street from the stunning Southern California coastline near Laguna Beach, Soka University’s location is one of its most outstanding features. Undergraduate academics consist of such majors as Environmental Studies, Humanities, International Studies and Social and Behavioral Sciences. One of Soka’s differentiating features is that it also requires all students to take broad-based interdisciplinary courses in such fields as Creative Arts and Language and Culture. Soka’s education is also unique in that it is grounded in Buddhist beliefs and principles. However, you don’t need to be a Buddhist to attend. All you need is an interest in examining the world from the Buddhist ideals of compassion and respect for all living things. In order to better nurture this humanitarian perspective on a global scale, Soka requires all students to study or do internships abroad for a semester. While on campus, Soka students participate in a host of activities, including community service projects, environmental and political activities and arts and cultural clubs. Soka awards merit-based scholarships as well as need-based financial aid to students who meet eligibility requirements. Those seeking admission to Soka may fill out an application online.

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