The philosophy of Yoga, as explained by Maharishi in the Bhagavad Gita and by Patanjali in the Yoga Sutras, and how Yoga practice enhances your life
How to accelerate personal growth through the Transcendental Meditation® technique, yoga asanas, retreats, and other practical approaches
The latest scientific research on brain functioning and how meditation leads to clearer thinking
Strategies for social transformation leading to a more peaceful world
Modern perspectives on consciousness in the light of Maharishi Vedic Science
Get started by contacting Jess
Jess Nohle is this program’s admissions counselor for US students. Jess will provide you with all the details of becoming a student, including connecting you with program faculty when you have questions. International students may connect with their admissions counselor through our contact form.
32 additional credits of Consciousness & Human Potential courses
Courses for this specialization include:
MVS 241 Models of Development: Frontiers of Human Potential
This course will explore models of human development across the lifespan. You will examine Piaget’s model of cognitive development; Loevinger and Cook-Greuter’s models of ego or self-development; Kohlberg’s model of moral development; and the Science and Technology of Consciousness of Maharishi Mahesh Yogi.
RLW 200 Change Begins Within
If one wants to change the world, what better way than to start with oneself? This is the simple premise of the course. It is part study and part personal challenge. We will learn about the science of well-being, health, and wholeness from modern science and Vedic Science, and about the dynamics of behavioral change. We will then apply what we learn to our own lives. For the challenge part of the course, students will select two or more behaviors they wish to change. With the support of a small team, you will try to make these changes, applying the lessons of the course.
MVS 210 Veda: Fabric of Consciousness
Is human knowledge inevitably partial or can we fathom complete knowledge? How are insights of ancient seers into the nature of reality relevant to our contemporary lives? This course examines questions such as these in light of Maharishi Vedic Science (“Vedic” is from “Veda,” meaning knowledge). You will learn about Vedic literature — including Yoga, Vedanta, and the Upanishads — in light of the direct experience of consciousness. From time immemorial, Vedic literature has been studied for its enlightening wisdom; this course explores Maharishi’s unified structure of Vedic literature as the dynamics of consciousness knowing itself. Qualities of consciousness — such as expanding, unifying, and analyzing — are explored in the branches of Vedic literature, in human physiology and in the structure of the universe.
MVS 300 Science of Being and Art of Living
The Science of Being and Art of Living was Maharishi’s first book, published in 1963. In this course, both through reading and through studying Maharishi’s videos, students investigate the main themes of the book — Being, the essential constituent of creation; how to contact and how to live Being; how to live one’s full potential in thought, speech, action, and relationships; and God-realization.
MVS 370 Yoga as Union: Theory and Practiceof Maharishi’s Holistic Approach
This course explores themes related to Yoga philosophy in light of the effortless, natural practice of Transcendental Meditation. The course introduces Yoga both as a settled inner state of mind and a path of development, as brought out by Maharishi in his books and lectures. Topics include Yoga and the brain, Yoga and health, development of full human potential, Yoga and Dharma, and the role of Yoga Asanas in the eight limbs of Yoga brought out in the traditional Yoga text, Patanjali’s Yoga Sutra.
RLS 300 Using Holistic Thinking to Understand and Address Complex Problems
How can we understand large, multi-disciplinary problems like climate change, food insecurity, and income inequality? By applying interdisciplinary, systems-based, integrative thinking — or holistic thinking. This is the starting point of this course. Using big and small, fictional and real, situations and formal problems, we practice looking at problems from multiple angles, with the aim of integrating what we know and finding holes in our own understanding. This thinking is further enhanced through the introduction of a number of Consciousness-Based principles that are transdisciplinary in origin and help us see larger patterns in the dynamical systems that make up problems. From applying these principles students gain a systematic and practical approach to understanding and approaching problems.
MVS 309 Social Transformation and World Peace
Course participants study how Maharishi applied the ancient knowledge of Yoga technologies to create contemporary solutions for world peace. This includes a focus on the principles of and published scientific research on creating coherence in the collective consciousness. There is an in-depth review of Maharishi’s historic unfoldment of this knowledge from 1960 to current strategies to create permanent world peace in this generation. By way of comparison, there is also a brief review of other peace-creating strategies. The course includes both theoretical understanding and direct experience of peace-creating programs, with emphasis on the relationship of personal inner peace and peace creation in the public domain.
MVS 302 Maharishi on the Bhagavad Gita: Insights into Dharma and Evolution
What action in life is best for your personal development – your “Dharma”? How does this relate to family, social, and global responsibilities? How do we make the right decisions for ourselves and others, and act in a way that is enjoyable, not stressful and exhausting? This course studies timeless questions and dilemmas such as these, discussed in the Bhagavad-Gita — using as a guide Maharishi Mahesh Yogi’s translation of and commentary on chapters one to six.
If you transfer in 60 or more credits, the degree can be completed in four semesters. (Transfer students can inquire with their admissions counselor to learn the exact number of credits needed to graduate.)
Dive within and find yourself
As a student at MIU, you’ll learn the Transcendental Meditation technique, an evidence-based technique that promotes inner peace and wellness, enhances clear thinking, improves learning ability, and boosts creativity.
Get started by contacting Jess
Jess Nohle is this program’s admissions counselor for US students. Jess will provide you with all the details of becoming a student, including connecting you with program faculty when you have questions. International students may connect with their admissions counselor through our contact form.
Research Center for Brain, Consciousness, and Cognition
Dr. Fred Travis, Department Chair and Director of the Center for Brain, Consciousness and Cognition is the author of over 80 published papers in:
Psychophysiological correlates of higher states of consciousness
Investigation into the brain patterns of world-class performers
Effects of the Transcendental Meditation practice on child development
Effects of the Transcendental Meditation practice on promoting healthy aging
Brain research can be used to test theoretical concepts and give insight into your own questions about the inner working of the brain while meditating, performing cognitive tasks, listening to sounds, etc.
Featured faculty
Keith Wegman
Keith Wegman received his PhD in Maharishi Vedic Science from Maharishi International University in 2004, his MA in Science of Creative Intelligence from Maharishi International University in 1993, and BA in Philosophy/Art from St. Olaf College in 1991.
Dr. Wegman has taught numerous undergraduate and graduate level courses in Sanskrit and Maharishi Vedic Science and has researched and lectured in these subjects both nationally and internationally over the last 25 years. He is also a Certified Teacher of Transcendental Meditation and is the Director of TM instruction at the Raj Ayurveda Health Spa. He lives in Fairfield, Iowa with his wife Sankari and two children Jayanta and Uma.
Cost & aid for bachelor’s degree programs, 2023-24
US On-Campus Students
US Online Students
Tuition is based on the total number of credits per semester – two semesters per year. Typically, enrollment is two courses at a time, 17 credits (full-time) or one course at a time, 9 credits (3/4 time)
¾ time per semester (9-11 credits)
US Online Undergraduate, ¾ time
The example below can vary by FAFSA analysis of independent student finances or dependent family finances.
Semester Cost and Typical Financial Aid
Tuition and fees
$4,895
Federal grants (maximum)
-$2,450
Net cost per semester
$2,445
Federal student loan
-$2,445
Your payment
$0
Additional Financial Aid Information
Federal Grants
Federal grants are available for full-time and part-time students. The grants vary depending on income level as determined by the FAFSA, and by credit load per semester. Students in higher-income categories may not qualify for federal grants.
Employer Waiver Program
Many companies offer tuition assistance programs to their employees. If you’re currently employed, we encourage you to check on this. If they offer assistance, please contact MIU’s Financial Aid office.
Scholarship from MIU
Part-time online students benefit from a proportionately lower tuition than the full-time rate. For example, a half-time student’s tuition is less than half the full-time tuition. Because these discounts are included in the part-time tuition, an additional MIU scholarship isn’t available for part-time students.
Federal Student Loans
Federal Student Loans have limits based on lifetime usage, annual limits, and limited to the educational costs for each semester. Here are the annual maximum limits:
$5,500 per year for first-year dependent
$6,500 per year for second-year dependent
$7,500 per year for third, fourth, fifth-year dependent
$9,500 per year for first-year independent
$10,500 per year for second-year independent
$12,500 per year for third, fourth, fifth-year independent
Federal Student Loan Repayment
Federal Student Loan Repayment is postponed as long as you are enrolled at least half-time each semester. If your enrollment drops below half-time, you have a six-month grace period before repayment begins. There are also postponements for low income and unemployment, as well as repayment based on income and Public Service Forgiveness.
Education Tax Incentives
There are a variety of money-saving tax benefits to assist in reducing the cost of education expenses. More about education tax benefits.
Veterans
Veterans should contact the VA for information on Veterans Education Benefits. Veterans eligible for BAH monthly benefits: The VA utilizes a scale of credits per block of courses; therefore, the VA sometimes pays part-time benefits for an individual month while the university delivers full-time federal aid for an entire semester. Our Veterans Certifying Official is our Director of Financial Aid.
Loan Repayment Options
Standard
Payments are a fixed amount that ensures your loans are paid off within 10 years (within 10 to 30 years for Consolidation Loans).
Extended
Payments may be fixed or graduated and will ensure that your loans are paid off within 25 years.
Graduated
Payments are lower at first and then increase, usually every two years, and are for an amount that will ensure your loans are paid off within 10 years (within 10 to 30 years for Consolidation Loans).
Income-Based
Your monthly payments will be either 10 or 15 percent of discretionary income (depending on when you received your first loans), but never more than you would have paid under the 10-year Standard Repayment Plan.
Income Contingent
Payments are recalculated each year and are based on your updated income, family size, and the total amount of your Direct Loans. Any outstanding balance will be forgiven if you haven’t repaid your loan in full after 25 years.
Income Sensitive
Your monthly payment is based on annual income, but your loan will be paid in full within 15 years.
Tuition, other fees, scholarships, and financial policies are subject to change prior to the entry date. For more information, contact us at finaid@miu.edu for a quick reply — normally one business day — or see more about financial aid.
½ time per semester (6-8 credits)
US Online Undergraduate, ½ time
The example below can vary by FAFSA analysis of independent student finances or dependent family finances.
Semester Cost and Typical Financial Aid
Tuition and fees
$2,895
Federal grants (maximum)
-$1,850
Net cost per semester
$1,045
Federal student loan
-$1,045
Your payment
$0
Additional Financial Aid Information
Federal Grants
Federal grants are available for full-time and part-time students. The grants vary depending on income level as determined by the FAFSA, and by credit load per semester. Students in higher-income categories may not qualify for federal grants.
Employer Waiver Program
Many companies offer tuition assistance programs to their employees. If you’re currently employed, we encourage you to check on this. If they offer assistance, please contact MIU’s Financial Aid office.
Scholarship from MIU
Part-time online students benefit from a proportionately lower tuition than the full-time rate. For example, a half-time student’s tuition is less than half the full-time tuition. Because these discounts are included in the part-time tuition, an additional MIU scholarship isn’t available for part-time students.
Federal Student Loans
Federal Student Loans have limits based on lifetime usage, annual limits, and limited to the educational costs for each semester. Here are the annual maximum limits:
$5,500 per year for first-year dependent
$6,500 per year for second-year dependent
$7,500 per year for third, fourth, fifth-year dependent
$9,500 per year for first-year independent
$10,500 per year for second-year independent
$12,500 per year for third, fourth, fifth-year independent
Federal Student Loan Repayment
Federal Student Loan Repayment is postponed as long as you are enrolled at least half-time each semester. If your enrollment drops below half-time, you have a six-month grace period before repayment begins. There are also postponements for low income and unemployment, as well as repayment based on income and Public Service Forgiveness.
Education Tax Incentives
There are a variety of money-saving tax benefits to assist in reducing the cost of education expenses. More about education tax benefits.
Veterans
Veterans should contact the VA for information on Veterans Education Benefits. Veterans eligible for BAH monthly benefits: The VA utilizes a scale of credits per block of courses; therefore, the VA sometimes pays part-time benefits for an individual month while the university delivers full-time federal aid for an entire semester. Our Veterans Certifying Official is our Director of Financial Aid.
Loan Repayment Options
Standard
Payments are a fixed amount that ensures your loans are paid off within 10 years (within 10 to 30 years for Consolidation Loans).
Extended
Payments may be fixed or graduated and will ensure that your loans are paid off within 25 years.
Graduated
Payments are lower at first and then increase, usually every two years, and are for an amount that will ensure your loans are paid off within 10 years (within 10 to 30 years for Consolidation Loans).
Income-Based
Your monthly payments will be either 10 or 15 percent of discretionary income (depending on when you received your first loans), but never more than you would have paid under the 10-year Standard Repayment Plan.
Income Contingent
Payments are recalculated each year and are based on your updated income, family size, and the total amount of your Direct Loans. Any outstanding balance will be forgiven if you haven’t repaid your loan in full after 25 years.
Income Sensitive
Your monthly payment is based on annual income, but your loan will be paid in full within 15 years.
Tuition, other fees, scholarships, and financial policies are subject to change prior to the entry date. For more information, contact us at finaid@miu.edu for a quick reply — normally one business day — or see more about financial aid.
Summer – One course (4 credits)
US Online Undergraduate, less than ½ time (4 credits)
The example below can vary by FAFSA analysis of independent student finances or dependent family finances.
Cost – less than ½ time
Tuition
$2,000
Federal grants (maximum)
-$900
Net cost
$1,100
Federal student loans (not available)
0
Your payment
$1,100
Tuition, other fees, scholarships, and financial policies are subject to change prior to the entry date. For more information, contact us at finaid@miu.edu for a quick reply — normally one business day — or see more about financial aid.
Full-Time (12 or more credits)
International On-Campus Students
International On-Campus Undergraduate
Annual Cost and Typical Financial Aid
Tuition and fees
$16,530
Housing (single room) and meals
$7,400
Health insurance (estimate)
$1,992
Personal expenses, books, unexpected needs (estimate)
$3,500
Cost Per Year
$29,422
Full-time students may apply for up to $6,000 scholarship based on qualifying documented family income. Our undergraduate scholarship application form will be made available to you upon application to the university.
Tuition, other fees, scholarships, and financial policies are subject to change prior to the entry date.
International Online Students
International Online Undergraduate
Typically, online enrollment is two courses at a time (17 credits) or one course at a time (9 credits), per semester (two semesters per year).
Tuition and Fees per Semester
Full-time (12 or more credits)
$8,095
¾ time (9-11 credits)
$4,895
½ time (6-8 credits)
$2,895
Fewer than 5 credits
$500 per credit
Tuition, other fees, scholarships, and financial policies are subject to change prior to the entry date.
Next Steps
Get your questions answered and download our free booklet.
You’ll learn:
Jess Nohle is this program’s admissions counselor for US students. Jess will provide you with all the details of becoming a student, including connecting you with program faculty when you have questions. International students may connect with their admissions counselor through our contact form.
Dr. Fred Travis, Department Chair and Director of the Center for Brain, Consciousness and Cognition is the author of over 80 published papers in:
