Naropa University’s BA Psychedelic Studies Minor equips students with the knowledge and skills necessary to navigate the emerging field of psychedelic studies, while fostering critical thinking and ethical awareness.
At the heart of our curriculum is a humanities-focused approach, offering a comprehensive introduction to psychedelic practices. We delve into the rich tapestry of history, examining the development and cultural appropriation of psychedelic traditions. Through rigorous coursework, students develop the analytical tools needed to tackle the complex challenges inherent in this evolving industry.
While our program does not aim to train students to conduct psychedelic-assisted therapy, it serves as a springboard for thoughtful exploration of key issues in the field. Similar to pre-law or pre-med concentrations, our minor provides a solid foundation for engaging in meaningful dialogues surrounding the therapeutic, spiritual, and communal dimensions of psychedelics.
Psychedelic Studies Minor Requirements
Required Course
INTD 220/220e Introduction to Psychedelic Studies (3)
Choose 9 Credits from the Following Courses:
- PSYB 354/354e Transpersonal Psychology (3)
- PSYB 415/415e Maitri: Working With Emotions (3)
- PSYB 471/471e Theories of Psychedelic Assisted Therapies
- PSYB 495e Special Topics Advanced Research: Decolonial Psychology (3)
- PSYB 209 Herbal Medicine (3)
- WRI 490 Special Topics: White Rabbit: The Poetry of Psychedelics
Planned Courses
- Ecopsychedelics (3)
- Exploring Psychedelic Science (3)
- Religion and Psychedelics (3)
- Skillful Methods in Psychedelic Care (3)
Total Credits 12
- Academic Calendar
- Course Catalog
- Undergraduate Academics
- Core Curriculum
- Online Bachelor’s Degrees
- BA Art Therapy
- BA Art Therapy Online
- BA Creative Writing & Literature
- Elementary Education
- BA Environmental Studies
- Environmental Studies Online
- BA Interdisciplinary Studies
- Interdisciplinary Studies Online
- BA Psychology
- BA Psychology Online
- BA Religious Studies
- BA Visual Arts
- BA Yoga Studies
- BA Capstone Projects
- Graduate Academics
- Clinical Mental Health Counseling
- Buddhism-Informed Contemplative Counseling
- Mindfulness-Based Transpersonal Counseling
- Transpersonal Creative Art–Based Counseling
- Nature-Based Transpersonal Counseling
- Somatic Counseling
- Somatic Counseling: Dance/Movement Theories & Practice
- MFA Creative Writing and Poetics
- MFA Creative Writing (Low-Residency)
- Master of Divinity
- MA in Ecopsychology
- MA in Yoga Studies
- Academic Support
- Extended Campus
- Schools & Centers
- Courses Open to the Public
- Summer Writing Program
- Library
- Academic Affairs
What You'll Learn
Psychology & Neuroscience
Applying knowledge from peer-reviewed research to understand the psychological and neurological aspects of psychedelics.
History & Healing
Articulating an understanding of the historical and therapeutic uses of psychedelic medicines.
Contemplative Inquiry
Exploring the impact of psychedelics on individual and collective consciousness.
Literature & Art
Evaluating the interplay between psychedelics, creativity, and artistic expression.