Compassion Cultivation Training is an 8-week training course developed at Stanford University Center for Compassion and Altruism Research and Education (CCARE) by principal author and Compassion Institute Co-Founder Thupten Jinpa Ph.D with contributions from CI’s Founding Faculty.

The evidence is compelling. While compassion is an inherent quality we all possess as human beings, research from neuroscience, contemplative science, and psychology show that it is an orientation and skill that can be cultivated and strengthened to increase the well-being of individuals, communities and society. 

What does Compassion Cultivation Training (CCT) look like?

CCT is an 8-week course, including:

• Weekly 2-hour class, with lectures, discussions, and interactive exercises
• Meditation practices that progress from week to week
• Real-world assignments for practicing compassionate thoughts and actions

What effects can I expect?

While everyone will have their own unique experience, research has shown CCT can lead to:

• Support for your health, happiness, and well-­­being
• Reduction of stress, depression, and anxiety
• Improvements in relating to others and the world

The 8-week CCT journey 

Week 1 Settling and focusing the mind

Week 2 Loving-kindness & compassion for a loved one

Week 3 Compassion for oneself

Week 4 Loving-kindness for oneself

Week 5 Embracing shared common humanity and developing appreciation for others

Week 6 Cultivating compassion for others

Week 7 Active compassion practice

Week 8 Integrated daily compassion cultivation practice

Absence, Refund, and Payment Plan Policy

We understand that life happens and we want to work with you to make sure you’re able to get the most out of your class. Before registering, please consider the following:

• Absences: For 8 week CCT, we recommend you attend at least 7 of the 8 sessions. If you need to miss more than 2 sessions during the 8 weeks we recommend that you wait to take it at a time when you can attend at least 6 sessions. This will allow you to obtain as much information as possible and get the most out of the course. 
• Refunds: Unfortunately, we are unable to issue refunds or transfers for CCT classes.
• Payment Plans: Compassion Institute is happy to offer a Payment Plan option, to assist with the cost of CCT. By using the Payment Plan to register, you are agreeing to pay the full amount of $390 USD in two equal payments. CCT Payment Plans will work as follows:
  • Check the “Payment Plan” box on this page
  • You will be prompted to pay for the first half (195 USD) upon registration
  • You will receive an invoice for the second half (195 USD) on Tuesday, February 27th
  • Second payment must be submitted to Compassion Institute by Tuesday, March 5th
  • Failure to pay your second payment will result in your removal from the class and you will not receive a certificate of completion.

Please be sure to take note of the time & date listed above, all times are listed in UTC offset.