At IHU, you will receive the specific education and training required to practice your calling in the west where there is a shortage of qualified yoga teachers to meet the traditional needs of the Sanatana Dharma based communities. This course includes and also goes beyond the basic physical health elements associated with asana performance and immerses the student in the philosophy and traditional culture of Yoga Shastra as expounded by Maharishi Patanjali.
This is a Special Program in collaboration with Yoga Institutes providing Level 1 (RYT 200) and level 2 (RYT 300) certifications according to Yoga Alliance Standards. This program is academically comparable to Hindu University Master’s degree/Advanced Diploma in Yoga Education. Participants who have already met the prerequisite of a Bachelor’s degree receive a Master’s degree from IHU. Those who do not have a Bachelor’s degree receive an Advanced Diploma.
Requirements for Master Degree (Advanced Diploma) in Yoga Education:
Core Courses :-
YOG 5001, YOG 5002, YOG 5003 – Techniques, Training and Practice (9 credits):
Topics in this category could include, but would not be limited to: asanas, pranayamas, kriyas, chanting, mantra, meditation, and other traditional yoga techniques. These hours must be a mix between: 1) analytical training in how to teach and practice the techniques, and 2) guided practice of the techniques themselves. Both areas must receive substantial emphasis.
YOG 5004 – Teaching Methodology (3 credits):
Topics in this category could include, but may not be limited to: Communication skills such as group dynamics, time management, and the establishment of priorities and boundaries. How to address the specific needs of individuals and special populations, to the degree possible in a group setting. Principles of demonstration, observation, assisting and correcting. Teaching styles: qualities of a teacher, the student learning process, and business aspects of teaching yoga (including marketing and legal). The Teaching Methodology category covers a broad overview and analysis of teaching methods, rather than how to practice or teach specific techniques.
YOG 5005 – Anatomy and Physiology (3 credits):
Topics in this category could include, but would not be limited to: human physical anatomy and physiology (bodily systems, organs, etc.) and may also include energy anatomy and physiology (chakras, nadis, etc.). Includes both the study of anatomy and physiology along with its application to yoga practice (benefits, contraindications, healthy movement patterns, etc.).
YOG 5006 – Yoga Philosophy, Lifestyle and Ethics for Yoga Teachers (3 credits): Topics in this category could include, but would not be limited to: The study of yoga philosophies and traditional texts (such as the Yoga Sutras, Hatha Yoga Pradipika, or Bhagavad Gita), yoga lifestyle, such as the precept of non-violence (ahimsa) and the concepts of dharma and karma; ethics for yoga teachers, such as those involving teacher – student relationships and community; and understanding the value of teaching yoga as a service and being of service to others through yoga (seva).
YOG 5007 – Practicum (3 credits): Topics in this category include: practice teaching as the lead instructor (does not include assisting, observing or giving feedback), receiving and giving feedback, observing others teaching, assisting students while someone else is teaching.
