Master of Arts Psychedelics and Consciousness Studies

Integrated Masters with deeper specialization and research focus
Taught in English
Duration 2 Years
Mode On Campus
Level Postgraduate
Degree Masters Degree
Next Intake TBA

Course Overview

Embark on a transformative academic journey with the Master of Arts in Psychedelics and Consciousness Studies at the University of Ottawa. This postgraduate program is designed for individuals eager to explore the complex interplay between psychedelics, human consciousness, and mental well-being across diverse cultural and historical contexts. You will delve into interdisciplinary research, examining the therapeutic, spiritual, and ritualistic applications of these substances, and develop a nuanced understanding of their potential impact on psychology, comparative mysticism, and clinical practice.

This full-time, on-campus Master of Arts degree is structured over two years, offering a comprehensive curriculum that includes compulsory courses like "Psychedelic Psychotherapies and Mental Health" and "Interdisciplinary Survey of Psychedelic Studies." You will engage in practical research through a practicum and culminate your studies with a major research paper. Throughout the program, you will develop advanced research methodologies and critical analysis skills, preparing you for careers in mental health, research, or further academic pursuits in the burgeoning field of psychedelic studies.

Course Curriculum & Details

Detailed information for serious evaluators

Program Overview

This Master of Arts program in Psychedelics and Consciousness Studies offers an interdisciplinary exploration of psychedelic substances and their impact on human consciousness. Students will engage with compulsory courses covering applied research, psychedelic psychotherapies, an interdisciplinary survey of psychedelic studies, politics and harm reduction, and sacred plant medicines. The curriculum also includes core and optional courses allowing for specialization in areas such as ethnobotany, pharmacology, neuroscience, and religious studies, culminating in a major research paper.

1 Compulsory Courses

Practicum in applied research
Psychedelic psychotherapies and mental health
Psychedelics: interdisciplinary survey of psychedelic studies
Psychedelics, politics and harm reduction
Sacred plant medicines and spirituality

2 Core Courses (Choose 3 units)

Field work in psychology
Directed studies I

3 Optional Courses (Choose 6 units)

Medical anthropology
Ethnobotany and ethnopharmacology
Comprehensive pharmacology I
Comprehensive pharmacology II
Consciousness: an interdisciplinary perspective from neuroscience, philosophy and psychology
Evolution of the mind
Mental health interview and psychometrics
Seminars in psychology
Seminar in neuropharmacology and behavior
Shamanic traditions
Religion and psychology

4 Major Research Paper

Major research paper

Cost & Affordability

A clear picture of what this course will cost you

Program Costs

First Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 14,203.00
Second Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 14,203.00
Total Program Cost Estimated total tuition
USD 28,406.00

Currency note: Program costs shown in USD based on the available tuition breakdown.

Living Costs

Accommodation
USD 937.00 - USD 1,171.00
Food & Groceries USD 5,981.00 - USD 6,068.00
Transport USD 867.00 - USD 1,041.00
Utilities & Bills USD 1,734.00 - USD 2,167.00
Estimated Total USD 8,582.00 - USD 9,276.00

Living cost estimates are based on Ottawa Campus.

Outcomes & Employability

What happens after you graduate

97%
Graduate Employment Rate Within 6 to 12 months of graduation

Common Graduate Roles

Adult & Continuing EducationCorporate Training & DevelopmentDrug Discovery & ResearchHealth Technology & Digital HealthHigher Education & UniversitiesHome Health & Long‑Term CareMedical Research & Clinical TrialsNursing & Allied HealthPublic Health & EpidemiologyRehabilitation & Physiotherapy

Top Employers Hiring for this course

Carleton University

TFS Health Science

The Ottawa Hospital

University of Toronto

Why Study Master of Arts Psychedelics and Consciousness Studies at University of Ottawa

What makes this program stand out

Top 20 in UK For Computer Science

Exeter's Computer Science department consistently ranks among the top 20 in the UK for both teaching quality and research output.

Fast Offers Quick turnaround

Exeter typically responds to applications within 2-3 weeks, giving you clarity on your options quickly.

Flexible Intakes September start

Primary intake in September with January start available for some pathways through the INTO foundation program.

Accredited Industry recognized

Accredited by BCS, The Chartered Institute for IT, meeting requirements for Chartered IT Professional (CITP) status.

Life at University of Ottawa in Canada

What daily life looks like for international students

Language

English

Primary language everywhere

Climate

Mild & Rainy

10-20°C average, pack layers

Safety (Numbeo Safety Index)

Very Safe

Exeter is one of UK's safest cities

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about Master of Arts Psychedelics and Consciousness Studies at University of Ottawa

Can I work while studying?

International students can work up to 24 hours per week off-campus during the term and unlimited hours during breaks. They can also work unlimited hours on-campus without needing a separate work permit.

What English language score do I need for this course?

Applicants must meet specific English language requirements, including a TOEFL overall score of 92 and minimum scores in each section, or an IELTS overall score of 6.5 with specific section scores. Ensure you meet these criteria for admission.

What jobs can I get after studying this course?

Potential job titles include clinical therapist, spiritual care provider, research assistant, and psychotherapist.

What will I actually study in this course?

The School of Psychology offers an interdisciplinary graduate program leading to the degrees of Master of Arts in Psychedelics and Consciousness Studies (PCS).

Psychedelics and Consciousness Studies focuses on developing advanced knowledge surrounding the therapeutic, spiritual, and ritual uses of psychedelics cross-culturally and throughout human history. Its goal is the advancement of research and competency in the areas of human consciousness, psychology, comparative mysticism, and

When can I start — what are the intake months?

The Master of Arts in Psychedelics and Consciousness Studies has a September intake. Make sure to apply in advance to secure your spot in the program.
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