Shojin Culinary Arts Certificate Program
The Way of Shojin: Conscious Culinary Arts
The Shojin Culinary Arts Certificate Program is a one-year comprehensive, immersive training in plant-based cuisine rooted in the time-honored philosophy of Shojin Ryori—Japanese temple cooking. Blending culinary discipline with spiritual mindfulness, this program invites students into a transformative journey through seasonal, sustainable, and ethical food practices.
Program Length
Two semesters (1 year)
Format
In-Person, Full Time
This is a non-credit certificate designed for personal and professional development
Program Summary
Beginning with kitchen fundamentals, safety, and classical techniques, students gradually build a foundation in plant-forward cooking, culinary math, and holistic nutrition. Courses such as Shojin Techniques I–III, The Global Marketplace, and Nutrition: East Meets West emphasize both cultural authenticity and global adaptability, while introducing the philosophical depth and meditative preparation that define Shojin cooking.
Throughout the program, students engage in hands-on laboratories, practical assessments, and creative culinary exploration. From vegan baking and desserts to fermentation, plating, and flavor layering, each course integrates traditional aesthetics with modern culinary science and sensory awareness. Whether preparing a simple broth or a ceremonial meal, students are taught to approach food not only as nourishment but as a sacred act of balance and compassion.
Graduates of the program emerge with a refined skill set, a deep understanding of mindful cooking, and the ability to contribute meaningfully to both contemporary plant-based cuisine and spiritually grounded culinary spaces.
Culinary Arts classes have been so enjoyable and fun! I’ve learned how to cook vegetarian food of different traditions from an incredibly experienced and humble chef. The preparations were so fun.
Thanh Chu ’27
What is Shojin Cooking (精進素食)?
Shojin cuisine celebrates plant-based cooking without pungent plants, focusing on seasonal, local, and fresh ingredients while emphasizing minimal waste—elevating cooking and eating into a mindful spiritual practice.
Living in Community
Immerse yourself in a supportive community of deep thinkers at our Sudhana Center in Ukiah. Experience college dormitory living with mentorship from experienced RAs while developing lifelong friendships. Daily service periods foster compassion and social responsibility as you contribute to sustaining our vibrant learning community.
Completion of the DRBU Shojin Culinary Arts Certificate Program does not lead to an academic degree or transferable academic credit. Individual courses in the program do not carry transferable units. Students who complete the program will receive a Certificate of Completion.