Yoga has been integral to Indian culture for centuries, and its benefits have been widely recognised worldwide. The B.A. in yoga is a popular undergraduate program that provides a comprehensive understanding of the science of yoga and its practical applications. 

This program is highly sought after in the arts and humanities stream and typically lasts for three years. Students enrolling in this program are exposed to various subjects such as meditation, asanas, pranayama, chanting, and scriptures. These teachings are considered an alternative therapy to help individuals control and even cure various physical and mental illnesses.

Yoga is a holistic practice that originated in ancient India and has been widely recognised as an excellent way to promote physical, mental, and emotional well-being. With increasing stress levels and health issues globally, the demand for yoga has grown significantly in recent years. Due to its growing popularity, many universities and institutions have started offering degree programs in Yoga. 

Pursuing a Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Yoga can provide individuals with a thorough understanding of ancient practice and prepare them for a career in the wellness industry.

This article will explore the scope of a BA in Yoga, eligibility criteria, course curriculum, and career prospects.

Scope of BA in Yoga

A BA in Yoga is a comprehensive degree program focusing on yoga's theoretical and practical aspects. It aims to give students a deep understanding of yoga's history, philosophy, and practical applications. The curriculum covers yogic philosophy, anatomy and physiology, asanas (yoga poses), meditation, pranayama (breathing techniques), and teaching methodologies.

The course also includes various forms of yoga, such as Hatha, Ashtanga, Iyengar, and Kundalini. Students learn about the benefits of each form and how they can be used to improve physical health and mental well-being.

Apart from theoretical knowledge, students also get to practice yoga regularly. The practical sessions help students master various asanas and breathing techniques and understand their effects on the body and mind. The program also focuses on developing teaching skills to help students become competent yoga instructors.

Yoga has gained popularity as a form of exercise and a means of reducing stress, anxiety, and depression. It has become a popular complementary medicine widely used in various healthcare settings. As a result, there is a growing demand for qualified yoga teachers, therapists, and consultants who can guide individuals towards optimal health and well-being.

Upon completing the program, graduates can choose from various career options, such as yoga instructor, wellness consultant, yoga therapist, or entrepreneur in the wellness industry. They can also pursue higher education in yoga, such as a Master's or PhD.

Eligibility Criteria

The eligibility criteria for a BA in Yoga may vary depending on the institution. However, some standard requirements include the following:

• Educational Qualifications: Students must have completed their 10+2 education from a recognised board.
• Minimum Marks: The minimum aggregate marks required for admission may vary from institution to institution. Generally, a minimum of 50% marks is required.
• Entrance Examination: Some institutions may conduct an entrance examination to select candidates for the program. The exam may test the candidate's knowledge of yoga, general aptitude, and language skills.
• Physical Fitness: As yoga involves physical activities, candidates must be physically fit to participate in the program. Some institutions may conduct a fitness test before admission.
• Age Limit: The age limit for admission may vary from institution to institution. Generally, candidates should be between 18 to 25 years old.

Course Curriculum

The curriculum for a BA in Yoga is designed to provide students with a thorough understanding of yoga's theoretical and practical aspects. Some core subjects included in the program are:

• Yogic Philosophy: This subject covers yoga's history, philosophy, and evolution. It includes the study of ancient texts such as the Yoga Sutras of Patanjali, Bhagavad Gita, and Upanishads.
• Anatomy and Physiology: This subject focuses on the human body and its functions. It includes studying various systems, such as the musculoskeletal, respiratory, and nervous systems.
• Asanas: This subject covers the practice of various yoga poses or asanas. Students learn about the benefits of each asana and the correct way to perform them.
• Meditation: This subject covers the various forms of meditation, their benefits, and how to practice them.
• Pranayama: This subject covers the study of breathing techniques in yoga. Students learn about different pranayama techniques, their benefits, and how to practice them correctly.
• Teaching Methodologies: This subject focuses on developing teaching skills, including class planning, sequencing, and adjustments.

Apart from these core subjects, students may also be required to take courses in related areas such as Ayurveda, Naturopathy, or Yoga Therapy. The program may also include practical sessions that allow students to apply their knowledge and develop their teaching skills.

Tuition Fee for BA Yoga Course

Career Prospects

The demand for yoga instructors and wellness professionals has increased significantly in recent years due to growing awareness of the benefits of yoga for physical, mental, and emotional well-being. A BA in Yoga can prepare graduates for various career options in the wellness industry.

Yoga Instructor 

As yoga instructors, graduates can teach yoga classes in studios, gyms, corporate settings, or private sessions. They can specialise in different forms of yoga, such as Hatha, Ashtanga, or Kundalini, and work with clients of different age groups and fitness levels.

Wellness Consultant 

Graduates can work as wellness consultants, helping individuals or organisations develop and implement wellness programs that include yoga, meditation, and other practices.

Yoga Therapist 

As yoga therapists, graduates can work with individuals or groups to develop customised yoga programs to address specific health issues such as back pain, anxiety, or depression.

Entrepreneur in the Wellness Industry 

Graduates can start their businesses in the wellness industry, offering yoga classes, retreats, or wellness products.

Higher Education 

Graduates can pursue higher education in yoga, such as a Master's or PhD. This can lead to careers in research or academia.

Top Yoga Colleges in India

• Patanjali Yogpeeth, Haridwar
• Noble Institute of professional studies and NIPS, New Delhi
• Gordhandas seksaria college of yoga and cultural synthesis, Pune
• Kavikulguru Kalidas Sanskrit University, Nagpur.
• Prajapita Brahma Kumaris Ishwariya Vishwa Vidyalaya, Rajasthan
• Shyam University Dhausa
• DAV Training College, Kanpur
• Shri M. D Shah Mahila College, Mumbai
• Rawatpura Sarkar University, Raipur
• Apex University, Jaipur