British university offers degree in magic and the occult

Guess what? If you like magical things like crystals and dream of using magic to manifest things, you can now learn all about it and actually get a master’s degree in it.

The University of Exeter is offering a master’s degree in the subject that will explore the history and impact of magic and witchcraft in society and also explore this phenomenon scientifically.

The degree will be launched in September 2024 and will tie subjects like history, literature, philosophy, archaeology, sociology, psychology, drama and religion to magic and magical phenomena in the East and the West.

The magic wand to degree

The course is led by Prof Emily Selove. “A recent surge in interest in magic and the occult inside and outside academia lies at the heart of the most urgent questions of our society. Decolonization, the exploration of alternative epistemologies, feminism, and anti-racism are at the core of this programme.”

Selove also said that this had reversed a tendency in recent decades to dismiss the study of magic and occult with the idea that it is no longer of importance to modern people.

She also remarked on common day superstitions such as talismans and good luck charms such as a lucky tee shirt or bracelet or wearing jewellery that helped with aura or energies for example. She said it offered a superficial glance at our own beliefs and the beliefs of the people around us [that] magic is a part of our everyday life. “Responsible scholars would do well to take this seriously,” she said.

This is probably also why folklore like witchcraft, tarot card reading and crystals have grown in popularity with shamanism also increasing in popularity.

The masters degree in magic and occult would re-examine the common perception that the west is all about rationalism and science while the rest of the world thrives on magic and superstition and how it underpins western culture.

To date the course had received more than 100 inquiries. It will also help students acquire skills in creative thinking, analytical ability, curiosity and lifelong learning.