FAQs - College of Ayurveda

What are the different levels?

We have three levels of training including, Diploma – Ayurvedic Health Counselor, Certificate – Ayurvedic Practitioner, and Master of Arts – Ayurveda.

Are you approved by the state?

All of our programs and the MA degree are approved by the State of California Bureau for Private Postsecondary Education. We are also accredited by WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC).

Are you approved by a professional organization?

Our programs are recognized by the National Ayurvedic Medical Association (NAMA) and the California Association of Ayurvedic Medicine (CAAM).

How much is the tuition?

We have different tuition options depending if you pay in full or decide to make payments. > Tuition & Fees

How much is housing?

We have different housing options and price depends on which type of accommodation you choose. > Meals & Lodging

Do the courses run sequentially?

Our academic program begins every year in January starting with our Ayurvedic Health Counselor Program. The Certified Ayurvedic Practitioner and Master of Arts Programs follow sequentially.

Can I commute?

Yes, commuters pay a daily fee for facilities use and meals.

How much homework is there?

The homework varies based on the program and students' individual learning styles and needs.

Ayurvedic Health Counselor training requires at least 20 hours per week to complete homework and asynchronous assignments.

Ayurvedic Practitioner and MA-Ayurveda degree students can expect to spend at least 25 hrs. per week on homework and asynchronous assignments.

Can I still work and complete the program?

Our classes are scheduled on extended intensive weekends that start Thursday evening and all day Friday, Saturday, and Sunday once a month to accommodate students' work commitments. Many students maintain work and complete the program successfully.

Do you have financial aid or scholarships?

Scholarships available on a limited basis; inquire with an admissions counselor for more information.

An Early Bird tuition discounts available as well as monthly payment plans. The most affordable meals and lodging rate is available to all MMI students (lowest tiered pricing for overnight stays).

Do I need an undergraduate degree to start/complete the program?

You do not need a bachelors degree to enroll in the AHC or C-AP programs, but a BA or BS is required to enroll in the Master of Arts – Āyurveda.

Who are the teachers?

We draw the most highly qualified faculty to teach the Institute’s courses. Visit our Faculty page to learn more about our teachers. Many faculty hold a B.A.M.S. (Bachelor of Ayurvedic Medicine and Surgery) degree, the degree held by professors of Ayurveda in India and others hold an MA or terminal degree in their field.

I am an international student. Do you provide student visas? Are there online distance learning opportunities?

We do not provide student visas. All international students must enter the country with a tourist visa. There are no distance-learning classes at this time.

Where are you located?

Mount Madonna Institute is located on 355 acres of mountain-top redwood forest and grassland overlooking Monterey Bay, between Santa Cruz and Monterey, in Northern California. About 45 minutes from Santa Cruz, 30 minutes from Watsonville or Gilroy, 75 minutes from San Jose and 2 hours from San Francisco and Oakland.

How long does it take to get there from the airport?

From San Jose Airport - about 1 hour and 15 minutes; From San Francisco Airport - about 2 hours.

Do you have classes throughout the year?

We start our academic year every January. Mount Madonna Institute programs follow a trimester calendar with each trimester running 15 weeks followed by a 10-day break in between.

Weekend workshops are periodically offered to the public throughout the year. Please check our College of Ayurveda Calendar for offerings.