Frequently Asked Questions

Why should I choose Naropa University’s low-residency MA in Transpersonal Psychology?

The unique integration of contemplative pedagogy and practices, rigorous academic content and practical application creates a one-of-a-kind educational experience within a rich learning community. The program offers students opportunities for personal transformation and growth that pave the way for professional development and service contributions in the world. The program also cultivates capacities and appreciation for lifelong learning and inner development.

How will I benefit from studying at Naropa?

You will graduate with a mature understanding of transpersonal psychology and its application to a broad range of occupations and life experiences. Moreover, you will gain experience in how to actively engage with the world from a place of inner strength and self-awareness. You are supported by a close learning community of faculty and peers, as you discover your own talents, passions, and creative path.

Does this degree lead to clinical licensure?

While this program encourages direct applications of transpersonal psychology, it is not a counseling training program. Please refer to Naropa’s 3-year residential program in Transpersonal Counseling Psychology if you are seeking to become a licensed counselor.

In what career directions will my MA in Transpersonal Psychology take me?

Career options are diverse. Whether your interest is in the business sector, health care, community development, education, coaching, organizational consulting, social justice, or cultural renewal, this MA will provide you with a broad platform for taking your passion and creativity into work that matters to you and serves the well-being of our society. Some students enter the program with an established career that they want to enhance or expand; others come for more personal growth reasons, and a career path emerges out of their time here.

What kinds of work are alumni doing?

A partial listing of alumni employment includes the following: executive coach, holistic health consultant, college and university instructors, facilitator of transformational seminars, spiritual care coordinator for hospice, business financial consultant, community organizer, entrepreneur in the area of self-help workshops, patient advocate at a state psychiatric center, elementary school teacher, and clinical addictions specialist.

How does Naropa approach online education?

We start our program with a face-to-face Intensive in the summer in order to get to know each other and to develop a sense of community. This intimacy carries over into the online environment in the fall and spring. The Intensive also allows students to learn and engage various transpersonal practices, such as sitting meditation and nature-based contemplation.

Our online courses encourage self-reflection, personal inquiry, deep listening to others, and the values of community. The interactive nature of the online environment supports student engagement within each class, and it accommodates a variety of learning styles. Contemplative pedagogy promotes reflective, heart-centered awareness and presence, which contribute to meaningful learning and exchange, even via the internet. While it may seem counter-intuitive to think of contemplative and whole-person-centered education online, we have been pleased with our success in this area.

Do I need a psychology background?

Although a basic foundation in psychology is helpful, there are no prerequisites for applying to the program. We do encourage you to explore the field of transpersonal psychology to understand how it both draws on and differs from conventional psychology.

Do I need a background in meditation?

Although helpful, meditation experience is not necessary. However, an openness to learning meditation and engaging with awareness practices is important for the clear thinking, nonjudgmental attitude and emotional flexibility that underscore grounded, creative work in the world. We consider meditation and other mindfulness and contemplative practices as foundations for the MA program.

What are you looking for in your applicants?

We’re looking for highly motivated individuals who are called to the field of transpersonal psychology, who are willing to undertake the deep inner work that this degree offers, and who seek to be of service in the world.

What are the backgrounds and occupations of the students?

Student profiles are quite varied, with the age range from mid-twenties to elderhood. Students come from professions in health, education, business, community development, social work, the arts, and various spiritual traditions. All share a commitment to exploring the transpersonal dimensions of themselves, the human psyche, and the world around us. 

What is your approach to diversity and multicultural issues? 

At Naropa we respect and welcome diversity and incorporate that perspective into our curriculum. Environmental and social justice, appreciation for differences such as gender, age, religion, ethnicity, and race, and the capacity to work across cultural, national and political boundaries are key components of our approach.

What is your view on service?

This degree places a strong emphasis on applying principles and practices of transpersonal psychology in a socially engaged capacity. We see service as a dynamic interplay of inner development and outer expression. The second year involves 120 hours of transpersonal service learning with an agency of your choice, supported by online readings, discussions, and in-depth exploration of the meaning of true service.

What are some examples of transpersonal service learning placements?

• Training and supervising mentors for Master Gardeners program in Oregon
• Facilitating stress management groups for hospice staff and administrators
• Doing marketing and research for a grass roots sustainability organization
• Leading groups on Non-Violent Communication and offering dialogue groups for the public on issues related to peace
• Facilitating groups and supporting children and adults who have experienced the death of a parent or loved one
• Developing and offering wilderness quests for people looking to reconnect with self, community and the land
• Helping the elderly with daily living tasks and life planning in a Swedish community
• Hotline counselor with a domestic violence center
• Assisting staff in outreach programs, marketing strategies and the development of spiritual retreat weekends for an alcohol recovery center
• Assisting refugee families from around the world with social integration into the larger community through English lessons, acculturation, and job-seeking skills

Is there a graduate paper required to complete the MA?

Yes. During the second year students choose a topic related to transpersonal psychology and complete a 40-page Masters paper. The paper demonstrates an understanding of transpersonal psychology and its application and furthers the integration of personal experience and conceptual understanding.

Are there any electives in the program?

There are 9 credit hours of electives (3 courses), typically taken during the second year. In addition to elective courses, students may pursue their own interests through carefully designed and supervised independent study.

Is the GRE required?

No, it is not. We rely on the application, letters of recommendation, statement of interest, and personal interview to make our decision. This holistic review of a file enables us to see all sides of a candidate.  Our admissions process mirrors the holistic approach in our teaching and our recognition of the many dimensions of each human being.