Bhaktivedanta College is situated in the undulating Ardennes region of Belgium, an hour’s drive south-east of the national capital. Brussels itself is a major transport hub, no more than two hours from Paris, London, Frankfurt and Amsterdam. The College is one hour from the medieval city of Leuven (Louvain), home to the world’s oldest Catholic university, and two hours from Bruges, world famous for its perfectly preserved medieval architecture. The closest town is historic Durbuy, locally described as ‘the smallest city in the world’. The College campus lies adjacent to the picturesque Chateau de Petite Somme.

With its scenic, secluded environment, the campus is ideal for study, research and reflection. Students may take advantage of the College’s recently refurbished residential facilities. Dominating the landscape is the impressive Chateau. It houses a gorgeous Radha-Krishna shrine, renowned for its high standards of puja (worship) and kirtan (musical meditation). Up-to-date facilities now include: Student lounge; pure vegetarian restaurant; gym, sauna and laundry room; library specialising in Hindu Studies; wireless Internet connection; shop and bakery; interactive classrooms.

College life is a defining stage in personal growth: a time to discover and express one’s self, meet new friends and explore novel ideas, opinions and opportunities. The College provides ample space to develop discernment and a sense of individual purpose. Academic courses challenge students to develop self-assurance, character and independent thought. Graduates are encouraged to write a personal mission statement and to make a social contribution. Theologically, the College aims to foster an appreciation of the spiritual equality of all peoples and a corresponding respect for Earth’s natural resources and the sanctity of all life.

Students attend Bhaktivedanta College from throughout the world. Despite a rich ethnic and cultural diversity, they share a sense of belonging that extends well beyond the lecture theatre and into the local and extended communities. Social life is very different here. Students are renowned for their expertise in the performing arts, such as drama, kirtan and classical Indian music. Most popular are the festive days, spiritual retreats and sumptuous vegetarian feasts. Popular recreational activities include walking, swimming, canoeing, cycling and cultural visits. Our students also share a keen interest in current social trends and in philosophical debate.

Bhaktivedanta College welcomes students who are inquisitive, motivated and responsible. It offers a wide range of ethical, exhilarating routes to personal and professional success. Specialised courses integrate academic excellence with spiritual vision, and lofty ideals with real-world relevance. They enable graduates to walk away with both enriching experience and a practical, prestigious award. Students are offered full support through personalised mentoring and career guidance. The College maintains strong links with its international partners, and many students undertake a work and research based placement, relevant to both their worldly and spiritual aspirations.

The BA (Hons) in Education Studies, Theology and Religion has two distinct features. First, it equips students with direct experience of learning and teaching. Second, it examines the spirit-ual domains of education, integrating contemporary theory and practice with Vaishnava-Hindu insight. It explores the diverse contexts in which education meets ethics, religion and spirituality meets ethics, religion and spirituality. Many graduates enter the teaching sector. Others become trainers, school leaders and education officers within charity and business sectors, often through collaboration with employer organisations. The award also opens doors to post-graduate programmes, such as a Post Graduate Certificate in Education.

The Theology & Religious Studies Faculty lies at the heart of the College. Students focus on Vaishnavism, especially as represented through the teachings of A.C. Bhaktivedanta Swami. The College attracts leading scholars, especially from the Oxford Centre for Hindu Studies. The Bachelor of Arts degree, accredited by Chester University, provides students with a profound understanding of Vaishnava culture, heritage and theology, from both traditional and academic perspectives. Graduates enter professions linked to ISKCON, academia and a range of ethical, multicultural and people-centred initiatives. The Theology Faculty also offers a range of enrichment courses, with online options.

Bhaktivedanta College offers a dynamic, convenient way to learn. Under the motto "swift access to lifetime success", the Online Faculty provides innovative, easy-to-access programmes focussing on the relevance of ethics and spirituality to post-modern lifestyles. The vibrant online community boasts over 750 registered users from 64 countries.

In addition to its degree programmes, the College offers a wide range of short and casual courses. Most are open to residential students and a wide spectrum of visitors. Some welcome online participation (see previous page). In co-operation with the local Radha-desh community, the College stages a range of social and cultural events. Courses include: Residential Business Conferences; VTE Teacher Training Courses; Annual Education Conference; Yoga and Meditation Retreats; Summer Youth Events; Radhadesh Community Events; Personal music tuition; Residential Courses for Teachers.

Apply now for the following courses: BA (Hons) in Education Studies, Theology & Religion; BA (Hons) in Theology & Religious Studies; many other causal, online and enrichment courses. To submit an application, make further inquiries or to download an e-prospectus, please go to: www.bhaktivedantacollege.com or email us at college@pamho.net Bhaktivedanta College, Petite Somme 10, Durbuy 6940, Belgium You may also contact us by phone on 0032 (0)86 323277 (Monday to Friday, 10.00 to 12.00 hours).