California Institute for Human Science

    • PSYCHOLOGY

      PhD in Psychology Concentrations

      Master of Arts in Psychology Concentrations

MASTER OF ARTS IN INTEGRAL NOETIC SCIENCES

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An Integral Approach to Consciousness & Reality

We find ourselves in a multidimensional multiverse that is full of mystery and wonder. Come be part of the next generation of scholar-practitioners, thought-leaders, researchers, entrepreneurs, and educators exploring the frothy edges of this Wild Kosmos and help us discover some of its pearls of wisdom. There has never been a greater sense of urgency on this planet than right now for a bigger more complete vision of Reality and its relationship to consciousness – in its human and more-than-human expressions.

The Integral Noetic Sciences (INS) graduate program is truly a one-of-a-kind program. You are not going to find another program that uses an integral approach to include so many seemingly divergent schools of thought and approaches in order to explore the big questions around Reality—Consciousness, such as “What happens after we die?”, “Are we alone in the universe?”, “Do bees really have culture?”, “Is there a God – or Goddess, or Supreme Ground of Being?”, “Is magic real?”, “If a tree falls in the forest and no one is there to see it does it make a sound?”, “Do some animal species have an awareness of death?”, and “Is matter derivative of consciousness?”. So, as you can see, we take on the big questions in INS!

In short, the Integral Noetic Sciences program is dedicated to the scientific study of the relationship between consciousness and reality through the use of integral mixed methods with a focus on anomalous and noetic experiences. As our name applies there are three major areas of focus in this program:

  • Integral perspectives: This includes integrative metatheories such as Ken Wilber’s integral theory, Roy Bhaskar’s critical realism, and Edgar Morin’s complex thought as well as integral visions such as Karan Barad’s posthumanist cosmology, Sri Aurobindo’s integral yoga, Hiroshi Motoyama’s synthetic “East-West” subtle energy science, and the various schools of metamodernism that have emerged in the last decade. A variety of transdisciplinary methods and models are used alongside integrative maps and frameworks. 
  • Noetic perspectives: This includes philosophy of mind, consciousness studies, plant & animal consciousness, ecosomatics & ecopsychology, parapsychology, transpersonal psychology, anomalous experiences, phenomenology, contemplative science, esoteric practices, the magickal traditions, psychedelics, neurophenomenology, paranormal studies, cognitive science, shamanic traditions, and the study of post-autonomous ego development. Students and faculty are engaged in their own practices (somatic, esoteric, contemplative) of self-transformation and classes regularly include experiential exercises and meditations. Also, students and faculty often share their own anomalous and noetic experiences with each other to foster a grounded space of first-person inquiry making links between topics studied and our own direct experiences. 
  • Science perspectives: This includes the use of integral mixed methods that combine first-person, second-person, and third-person data collection approaches. There is an emphasis on pioneering new methodologies informed by emerging feminist, indigenous, post-materialist, ecological, posthumanist, transpersonal, anomalous, esoteric and subtle energy approaches. There is also an emphasis on philosophy of science and the ontological turns that are occurring in philosophy, anthropology, and science and technology studies. Quantum models of reality and consciousness are also a focus along with feminist and post-colonial critiques of science. 

This integral trifecta of transdisciplinary big picture perspectives create a potent educational space that is extremely unique and will transform you at a deep level so that you can help transform the world!

There are a number of research centers* at CIHS associated with the Integral Noetic Sciences (INS) graduate including:

  • Center for Anomalous and Noetic Studies (CANS)
  • Center for Applied Integrative Metatheories (CAIM)
  • Laboratory for Consciousness Science
  • Subtle Energy Research Laboratory

*See the Research Centers page for additional details

These research centers provide platforms, equipment, and resources for INS students to showcase their own projects and research or participate in already existing initiatives such as the Worldwide Initiative for Super Experiencer Research (WISER).

CIHS’s MA in Integral Noetic Sciences is a research-based program committed to exploring the noetic sciences through the historical study of consciousness, philosophy of mind, contemplative and esoteric traditions, anomalous realities, wisdom design, and our subtle energy anatomy. Study includes an in-depth examination of our current historical moment and how noetic science can contribute to a better world. The program provides expert guidance and instruction in contemplative practices and philosophical inquiry. While the MA program is designed as a stand-alone degree, it also provides invaluable preparation for CIHS’s PhD in Integral Noetic Sciences.

Degree Requirements

Master of Arts in Integral Noetic Sciences

  • Core: 32 units
  • Electives: 20 units
  • Thesis: 4 units
  • Total: 56 units

 

The MA in Integral Noetic Sciences is a fifty-six (56) quarter unit program. The curriculum consists of nine (8) required core courses and a thesis, with the remaining courses being electives that you select. Students can opt to complete a concentration as part of their electives (see below).

 

MA to PhD Pathway in Psychology
This degree satisfies the prerequisites for matriculation into CIHS’ PhD in Integral Noetic Sciences. Core course units completed at the Master’s level do not have to be repeated and may be applied toward doctoral course requirements up to a maximum of 16 quarter units except for the Spiritual Education requirement which must be fulfilled at both the master’s and doctoral levels.

Concentrations (optional)

Students can choose, but are not required, to declare a concentration to complete an MA in Integral Noetic Sciences. Currently four different concentrations are offered: an Individually Designed Concentration (IDC) and three Program Designed Concentrations (PDCs). 

The IDC option is flexibly designed between the student and the program director or other faculty that the program director assigns.

PDC’s reflect specific domains of expertise that the program offers students.  Requirements for a PDC include using 16 units of elective courses to take 4 approved courses associated with that PDC. Students pursuing a PDC should schedule a meeting with the program director for instructions regarding admittance requirements and administrative details.  PDCs are subject to change. 

 

Anomalous Studies Concentration

The Anomalous Studies concentration prepares students to research the transformative potential of people’s extraordinary anomalous experiences (e.g., paranormal, psi, multidimensional, galactic, esoteric, cryptozoological, transpersonal, UFO/ET encounters, and psychedelic); scientifically investigate, through mixed methods research, anomalous realities and their relationship to consciousness and subtle energies; and explore the resulting philosophical and ontological implications of anomalous phenomena on the nature of reality. 

 

Psychedelics, Consciousness, & Transformation Concentration (PDC)

This concentration offers an immersive journey into the realms of consciousness, transformation, and healing through the study of psychedelics and self-transcendence. Blending experiential learning with cutting-edge research, students will explore non-ordinary states of consciousness, the neuroscience of self-transcendence, and the therapeutic potential of psychedelics. With courses covering foundational practices, phenomenology, cultural history, and research methodologies, this concentration prepares students to navigate and integrate transformative experiences mindfully and ethically. Whether seeking personal growth, academic insight, or professional expertise, this concentration provides a rich, multidisciplinary foundation for understanding and utilizing the profound potential of psychedelics in healing and self-awareness. Click here to learn more.

 

UAP and Consciousness Studies Concentration

The UAP and Consciousness Studies concentration prepares graduate students to be thought leaders and researchers in understanding the importance of consciousness for understanding Unidentified Anomalous Phenomena (UAPs) AKA popularly as UFOs. An equal emphasis is placed on first-person psychological, anomalous, and noetic experiences of UAPs, second-person cultural, social, and philosophical aspects, and third-person scientific, economic, and political dimensions.

 

Wisdom Design Concentration

The Wisdom Design concentration prepares students to design “wisdom systems” that serve the whole person within complex systems by applying principles of wellbeing economics, multicapital social impact, and wellness design to businesses and organizations as well as to social innovation and large-scale design projects.

 

Individually Designed Concentration

The Individually Designed Concentration (IDC) option was created to meet the needs of students who wish to design a unique course of study within the MA in Integral Noetic Sciences degree program. Students with IDC concentrations complete the same core courses and units for the degree program and design the IDC within their elective course units. Students who want to pursue an IDC should schedule a meeting with the program director to review administrative details.

To start an IDC, the student identifies and secures a faculty advisor whose area(s) of expertise align with the student’s proposed area of study who agrees to oversee the IDC. The faculty advisor (which is often the program director) reviews and approves IDC coursework (including electives and, if necessary, independent studies) and eventually completes the student’s pre-graduation audit to confirm all IDC requirements have been met.  Typically, the IDC faculty advisor will also serve as the the student’s thesis advisor.

Examples of IDCs that students could create include:

  • Applied Integrative Metatheories
  • Contemplative Science
  • Esoteric Science
  • Subtle Energy Studies
  • Integral Ecology
  • Psychedelic Studies
  • Energy Healing
  • Parapsychology Studies
  • Transpersonal and Noetic Experiences

Coursework

CORE CURRICULUM (32 units)

  • Scholarly Writing for the Human Sciences I (4 units)
  • Foundations in Integral Studies (4 units)
  • Consciousness Studies (4 units)
  • Counseling & Communication Skills (4 units)
  • Spiritual Education (several options available) (4 units)
  • Introduction to Quantitative and Qualitative Research Methods (4 units)
  • Global Religions: Contemplative Traditions (4 units)
  • Global Religions: Esoteric Traditions (4 units)

 

ELECTIVES (chose 20 units)

  • Shamanism and Indigenous Religions (4 units)
  • Buddhism (4 units)
  • Christian Mysticism (4 units)
  • Islam (4 units)
  • Judaism (4 units)
  • Hinduism (4 units)
  • Taoism (4 units)
  • Integrative Metatheory: Wilber, Morin, Bhaskar (4 units)
  • Subtle Energy Systems 1: Bodies & Chakras (4 units)
  • Subtle Energy Systems 2: Beings & Worlds (4 units)
  • Anomalous Research Practicum (2 units)
  • Innovative Research Methods (4 units)
  • Feminist Cosmologies (4 units)
  • Siddhis & Superpowers (4 units)
  • Contemplative Science (4 units)
  • What is Real? Scientific, Philosophical, & Occult Perspectives (4 units)
  • Varieties of Nonduality (4 units)
  • Varieties of Anomalous Experience (4 units)
  • Wisdom Design (4 units)
  • Animal Consciousness (4 units)
  • Adult Development and Integral Leadership (4 units)
  • The Phenomenology of UAP (4 units)
  • Independent Study (4 units)
 

THESIS (4 units)

  • Thesis (4 units)

Program Learning Outcomes

PLO 1: Education: Distinguish the strengths and limits of multiple contemplative and esoteric spiritual traditions in their various socio-political and historical contexts. 

PLO 2Self-awareness: Display self-awareness of personal development and positionality and critical self-reflection about one’s own worldview, personality, and biography. 

PLO 3: Research: Examine new views and integrative models of reality through the application of innovative first-, second-, and third-person methods.

PLO 4: Models of Reality: Map the transdisciplinary and scientific links between consciousness, subtle energy, and matter.

PLO 5: Leadership: Compare the leadership opportunities of various INS topics within ethical, global, and cosmological contexts.

Possible Career Tracks

Most INS students pursue a professional path in one of these three areas:

  • Academia and lifelong learning: Education; teaching; and writing.
  • Business: Organizational design and leadership.
  • Research: Researching consciousness, noetic experience, and anomalous phenomena.

Admissions

When you reach out for more information or to apply, you’ll immediately be connecting with one of the leaders in your field of study. Although today these individuals are distinguished professors, once upon a time they were in your shoes and they haven’t forgotten what it is like and what you need.

They are passionate about their area of study, and want to do everything they can to mentor the next generation of experts and leaders to rise up, and exceed what even they have accomplished. As true leaders they know that is the best way of ensuring that their their area of study continues to significantly advance. They want you to succeed, massively, and do everything they can to ensure that – right from the start.

During the application process these leaders will work hard to understand where you’re at and give you their best advice, even if that means not joining their program. All of our faculty and staff are devoted to what is best for you, and the profession they serve.

CIHS is a relatively small family of people who are having an outsized impact on the world. We involve everyone who could possibly be needed to ensure that it’s as easy as possible to join us, and that you thrive with us right from the start.  

The admissions team is always ready and overjoyed to help you. The core team consists of the senior Professor for the program that we’ve just mentioned, also known as the Program Director, and the Dean of Admissions. The extended team includes the Provost (the most senior academic leader at the university) and key administrative members of her team such as the Registrar, the Dean of Student Assessments and Outcomes, and the Dean of Student Success. 

The program may be completed in person or 100% at a distance. 

International students from all countries are welcome in person or online.

In person classes are held at our campus in beautiful Encinitas California.

U.S. Based distance students must reside in one of the following states: AZ, CA, CO, DE, FL, HI, ID, IL, IN, KY, ME, MI, MS, MO, NE, NH, NJ, NY, NC, NV, OH, OK, PA, SC, SD, TN, TX, UT, WA. 

You can apply and be admitted to the program 4 times a year, at the start of each quarter.

We recommend beginning your application as soon as possible if you want to join the next start date.

Just click one the button below for more information, or to begin the process…

Why CIHS?

  1. Fully accredited by WSCUC & non-profit serving students since 1992
  2. Unique, highly customizable degree programs
  3. Well known, proven leaders in the fields we specialize in
  4. World-class faculty and research programs
  5. Year round enrollment with frequent and convenient start dates
  6. Ability to complete your program in person, 100% online, or a hybrid between the two
  7. 10 week classes so you can start and finish faster
  8. Flexible class hours for working professionals
  9. Holistic & integral approaches
  10. Welcoming and inclusive environment
  11. Small class size with personalized attention
  12. Exceptional student support services
  13. Access to CIHS’s labs and research centers, including our Laboratory for Consciousness Science and Subtle Energy Research Laboratories, as well as one of the largest Faraday cages in the region.
  14. Extensive networking and career preparation opportunities
  15. Diverse faculty and industry professionals from a variety of fields
  16. Located in the beautiful beach city of Encinitas in northern San Diego, 95 miles south of Los Angeles
 

The most important benefit of attending CIHS comes down to our focus on what we do. 

We are the only fully accredited consciousness-based university in the U.S. 

It’s what we’ve been exclusively focused on since our founding in 1992.

Since the beginning we’ve been a magnet for the top faculty, researchers, and students in the space.

If you want to advance the future of media technology, and have an outsized impact on the world with it, you go to the MIT Media Lab.

If you want to advance the understanding and applications of consciousness, and have an outsized impact on the world with it, you come to CIHS.

There truly is no other fully accredited institution dedicated to it like we are.

Faculty

Sean Esbjörn-Hargens, Ph.D

Dean of Integral Education
Integral Noetic Sciences Program Director
Lead Faculty

Sanjay Manchanda, PhD

Director of Psychedelic Studies
Adjunct Faculty

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