Buddhism is not only a form of religion but is also a form of spirituality. The beliefs of Buddhism revolve around beliefs and practices which are aimed at bringing you closer to the highest level in spiritual awareness and closer to Buddahood. With most of the followers coming from Asia, others coming from other regions of the world, the way Buddhism is practiced has been split into several different areas. Many of these beliefs are still similar with Buddha remaining as the sole teacher and truths still remaining as the 4 noble truths and the path of the Eightfold with the teachings. The belief that Buddahood is the highest level of spirituality still remains the same.
There are three main types of Buddhism or better known as the Northern Buddhism, Eastern Buddhism and Western Buddhism. Known as Theraveda Buddhism, the goal is to reach Nirvana and the only school still surviving from the early years of Buddhism. Mainly this form of the religion is found practiced in Sri Lanka and Laos as well as Cambodia.
The next type of Buddhism is known as Mahayana Buddhism and teaches that not only the Pali Canon form of Buddhism but also will add beliefs that make it possible to reach Nirvana. In order to practice this form of Buddhism, you must be willing to show complete compassion.
The third type of Buddhism is the Tibetan Buddhism. This uses both of the previous practices but also uses a number of tantras which is aimed at reaching buddahood in just one lifetime rather than a number of reincarnations. The same goal and belief comes from all the types of Buddhism but is obtained differently. You must know which one is which prior to the practice of Buddhism.