Bio

UAC Courses: Religions of Asia; Science Technology & Human Rights; Seven Cities: Human Rights & Civil Society in Korea; Myths, Religions, and Spirituality in Modern Japan; Yoga: Union & Separation; International Development of Mongolia
Email: hugh.schuckman@utah.edu
Office Location: 728

I grew up near Akron, Ohio, and have since lived, studied, and worked across North America, Asia, and the Middle East. I earned an MA in Buddhist Studies from Columbia University and a Master of Theological Studies from Harvard University. After teaching in Japan, South Korea, and Mongolia, I pursued my doctoral studies at UCLA’s Graduate School of Education and Information Studies, where I completed a Ph.D. in International and Comparative Education.

Before joining the faculty at the University of Utah Asia Campus (UAC) and the Honors College, I taught at Prince Sultan University in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, and at the Korea Development Institute of Public Policy and Management in Seoul.

At the UAC, I teach courses in Religious Studies, Human Rights, and Global Studies, and I coordinate the Honors College program. My recent book, Principles of Zen Training for Educational Settings: Pedagogical Insights, the Kwan Um School of Zen, and Transnational Korean Buddhism (Routledge, 2024), explores how Zen principles can inform educational practice, particularly in global and comparative contexts.

One of the great joys of my work here is taking students to Japan and Mongolia as part of class trips. Outside the classroom, I enjoy traveling with my wife and two daughters and have a deep passion for yoga. I completed a 500 hour yoga teacher training certification in Rishikesh, India, and currently teach yoga classes in Songdo.

I’m always happy to meet with students, whether you have questions about the Honors College, want to talk about religion, spirituality, or yoga, or just need a break. Please drop by my office for a Choco pie and a chat!