Unlock the Mysteries of the Universe: UK's First Degree in Magic and the Occult

In a groundbreaking move, the University of Exeter is set to introduce the United Kingdom's first-ever postgraduate degree program in magic and the occult. Slated to commence in September 2024, the course aims to explore the historical and societal impacts of witchcraft and magic on a global scale.

The Relevance of Magic in Modern Society

Professor Emily Selove, who leads the course, emphasized that the surge in interest in magic and the occult is deeply connected to pressing societal issues such as decolonization, alternative epistemologies, feminism, and anti-racism. She argues that even everyday practices like wearing lucky jewelry or avoiding certain superstitions reveal the pervasive influence of magic in our lives.

Challenging Western Stereotypes

The course aims to dismantle the stereotype that the West is solely rooted in rationalism and science, while the rest of the world is steeped in magic and superstition. It seeks to show how magic is an integral part of Western culture and how reevaluating its relationship with the natural world could offer fresh perspectives on challenges like climate change.

A Neglected Field of Study

Professor Selove notes that academic texts related to magic and the occult have been systematically overlooked in various disciplines, including history, literature, religion, and even the history of science and philosophy. The course has already generated significant interest, with over 100 inquiries received by the university.

A Unique Curriculum

The program offers a blend of traditional academic methodologies and alternative approaches. Students have the option to complete their dissertation through performance work. The curriculum includes modules on topics like dragons in Western literature, the legend of King Arthur, Islamic thought, and the philosophy of psychedelics, among others.