High School
Aspiring purohits who plan to work in a temple in the United States must be proficient in English, Sanskrit (the primary sacred language of Hinduism), Hindi, and Telegu. They may also need to be proficient, or at least have working knowledge, of regional Indian languages such as Bengali, Tamil, Malayalam, and Kannada, or the languages spoken in the countries where they work. Few, if any, American high schools teach Indian languages, but Indian community centers and local colleges offer language classes. Additionally, if you live in New Jersey, Connecticut, and Maryland, you can take Hindi classes offered by the nonprofit organization HindiUSA (https://www.hindiusa.org).
In addition to religion and philosophy courses, other useful classes include business, accounting, music, science, mathematics, speech, and computer science.
Postsecondary Education
Purohit training programs in India typically last anywhere from six months to a year, although some purohits train with a guru (expert teacher) for longer periods. In addition to traditional religious schools, some charitable organizations also train aspirants to become priests.
Many U.S.-based Hindu temples require job applicants to have an undergraduate degree. Some purohits have degrees in Hindu studies, Southeast Asian Studies, or an applicable foreign language such as Sanskrit, Hindi, or Bengali.
Some purohits also have secular careers (e.g., social workers, teachers, doctors, engineers, lawyers, etc.). In these instances, they would earn degrees in their respective fields. For example, a social worker would have a degree in social work and a teacher would have a degree in education.
Other Education or Training
Throughout their lives, purohits must continue to develop spiritually and expand their language proficiency, knowledge of business practices, and ability to use computer software for temple business. To do so, they attend spiritual retreats, work with a master teacher, and take courses offered by colleges, universities, and business and technology associations.
Certification
The Graduate Theological Union, through its Mira and Ajay Shingal Center for Dharma Studies, offers a six-course certificate program that culminates in the awarding of a certificate in Hindu studies. Earning this certificate doesn’t make you a purohit, but it will provide you with a deeper understanding of Hinduism. Visit https://www.gtu.edu/academics/areas/hindu-studies for more information. Some purohits improve their language skills by earning undergraduate and graduate certificates in an Indian language or English. Contact schools in your area to learn about available programs.