Frequently Asked
Questions

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

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).

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

Tuition varies according to the program. Please refer to the specific program page for tuition and fees.

Housing options and associated costs depends on the type of accommodation you choose. Please refer to the specific program page for accommodations and meals fees.

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.

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

It varies based on the program & students’ individual learning styles & needs. Ayurvedic Health Counselor training requires at least 20 hrs p/week to complete homework & asynchronous assignments. Ayurvedic Practitioner & MA-Ayurveda degree students can expect to spend at least 25 hrs. p/week on homework & asynchronous assignments.

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.

Merit based scholarships are offered on a limited basis; inquire with an admissions counselor for more information. In addition, enrolled students may choose between monthly or trimester payment plans, and an Early Bird tuition discount of $400 is awarded to applicants who submit prior to the determined date.

The most affordable meals and lodging rate is available to all MMI students (lowest tiered pricing for overnight stays).

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 – Ayurveda.

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.

We do not provide student visas. All international students must enter the country with a tourist visa. International students are especially invited to participate via distance learning.

Mount Madonna offers a number of online distance learning opportunities, including short mini-courses, weekend workshops, and longer term certificate programs in Yoga and Ayurveda.

Mount Madonna Institute is located on 380 acres of mountain-top redwood forest and grassland overlooking Monterey Bay, between Santa Cruz and Monterey, on California’s Central Coast. About 45 minutes from Santa Cruz, 30 minutes from Watsonville, Morgan Hill or Gilroy, 75 minutes from San Jose and 2 hours from San Francisco and Oakland.

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

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.