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M.A. in Engaged Humanities Catalog (PDF)

 
Pacifica Graduate Institute's degree program in Engaged Humanities with an emphasis in Depth Psychology prepares students to manifest their vision of a better world through acquisition of critical thinking, analytical writing, and enhanced communication skills. Students connect with the world's great stories through the perspectives of depth psychology and humanities to serve personal and professional goals. The approach is broad, interdisciplinary, and satisfying for those who seek intellectual curiosity and creativity. In addition, the hybrid/online format, brings the best of Pacifica to learners around the globe. Areas of study include:

Humanities

Coursework in mythology and culture includes topics such as Symbolism & the Visual Arts, and Joseph Campbell, Myth & Archetype.

Depth Psychology

Aspects of the Humanities curriculum focus on courses such as Dreamwork and Initiation, Ritual, & Ceremony.

Engaged Humanities

Engaged Humanities is characterized by interactive coursework such as Leadership Skills for Social Justice and Spiritual Practices & Healing Arts.

Descriptions of the 3 Areas of Study are listed below:


Humanities coursework in mythology and culture includes topics such as Symbolism & the Visual Arts, and Joseph Campbell, Myth & Archetype. The study of mythology awakens our deepest values, discloses the fundamental interconnectedness of all life, and reveals inequities in those relationships. By drawing upon the legacy of sacred texts, classic literature, and epic poetry, students move toward authentic empathy, meaningful dialog, reconciliation, and tolerance.  They learn to think mythically, imaginally, and psychologically. Intimate relationships with sacred texts form a model from which other positive attachment relationships can arise. Contemporary culture asks us to reflect upon complex experiences by following each mythic thread to our origins.

Depth psychology aspects of the Humanities curriculum focus on courses such as Dreamwork and Initiation, Ritual, & Ceremony. The psyches of individuals, community, and nature all arise together as expressions of the World Psyche. Deep archetypal patterns reveal patterns that resonate among all living things. A depth psychology perspective informs the study of Humanities, and fosters insightful perspectives on contemporary plights.  It provides a deeply educated ground from which to understand and respond to life’s circumstances.

Engaged Humanities is characterized by interactive coursework such as Leadership Skills for Social Justice and Spiritual Practices & Healing Arts. Engagement with the Humanities kindles endless passion for the world around us. By channeling the energy of wisdom traditions into an array of creative and practical skills, students learn to embody leadership in service of environmental stewardship, sustainability, biodiversity, and philanthropy. Decision-making and conflict resolution approaches serve personal, professional, community, and global concerns

Students in the Program will:

• Acquire a deepened understanding of the human condition through the study of the world’s great stories.

• Learn the art of critical thinking.

• Develop skill sets focused on cooperation, compassion, and sustainability.

• Receive a classical education in the humanities.

• Learn to consider complex issues from multiple perspectives.

• Create a portfolio to chronicle and showcase personal and professional development as a result of the coursework.

• Generate change in themselves, their communities, and the global society.

• Become interdisciplinary thinkers, writers, and speakers.

• Learn to embody leadership in service of environmental stewardship, sustainability, biodiversity, and philanthropy.

 

 

 

 

 

 


“The Program has opened so many doors and I am eager to walk through them once the program is completed. I am ready to take the next step.”

—Chrysm Watsom

 

 

 

 


“Working the Joseph Campbell material is fascinating, stirring imagination, and stretching one’s understanding of images.”
—Graduate Student
 
 

 

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