Consciousness-Based EducationAccredited

An accredited non-profit university with on-campus and online degree programs >

Founded by Maharishi Mahesh Yogi

A non-profit university with on-campus and online degree programs

Home of Consciousness-Based Education

Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission

Visit Us > Apply Now > Request Info >
Founded by Maharishi Mahesh Yogi

A non-profit university with on-campus and online degree programs

Home of Consciousness-Based Education

Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission

Request Info > Apply > Visit Us >
Request Info > Apply > Visit Us >

MA in Consciousness & Human Potential online or on-campus

Who am I, and how am I connected to everything around me?

Ancient teachers looked within themselves to find answers to answer questions like: “Who am I?” “Where am I going?” “How can I become more creative and develop my full potential?”

Explore your inner consciousness as you investigate current and traditional perspectives on human potential

Watch the video of Dr. Fred Travis speaking on Maharishi Vedic ScienceLeading scientists suggest that consciousness is as fundamental to life as time and space. Vedic science describes consciousness as even more fundamental, existing in and by itself, independent of any personal owner. These perspectives on consciousness are integrated by Maharishi Mahesh Yogi in Maharishi Vedic Science, which forms the basis for this program. (see video)

Probing your connection with the world

In this program, you will probe the furthest reaches of neuroscience, physics, and social sciences by examining the interaction between brain functioning and consciousness, parallels between the unified field of physics and the field of consciousness, and the connection between individual and collective consciousness.

Watch the webinar about the MA in Consciousness & Human Potential, 10 minutes long

Get started by contacting Jess

Jess Nohle, admissions counselorJess 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.

Contact Jess >

Contact Jess >

Next entry: Feb 2024 (online)
Aug 2024 (on-campus & online)

Profound personal development

reading textbook

Gain direct experience of your universal nature through procedures such as the Transcendental Meditation® technique, Maharishi YogaSM asanas, reading Vedic literature in Sanskrit, and self-pulse reading – as part of a transformative daily routine. Deeper inner experiences give a new platform to understand theoretical discussions of the full range of consciousness.

What careers does this degree prepare me for?

putting on phone protector

This program prepares you for a wide range of careers. It develops your consciousness, creativity, and intelligence. It also enhances your thinking and communication skills, improves your learning ability, and prepares you to be adaptable and cope with stress more effectively. Graduates often say this degree is the basis of their personal and professional success.

On-campus or online?

The MA in Consciousness & Human Potential consists of a sequence of 11 courses for exploring your Self and enriching all aspects of your life.

To meet our students’ various needs, we offer this program in three formats:

  1. On-campus (10 months)
  2. Online (30 months)
  3. On-campus (30 months) — can include part-time university employment in academic or administrative areas if you qualify. For more details, contact your admissions counselor.

Courses may include:

  • Physiology, Consciousness, and Veda
    • In this course, students learn how the brain is designed to be a perfect reflector of total natural law. They see how consciousness structures the physiology and how the innumerable connections among the ten billion brain cells enable a person to live in higher states of consciousness. Students measure their own growth of consciousness as part of the course.
  • Science of Being
    • Science of Being and Art of Living was His Holiness Maharishi Mahesh Yogi’s first book, published in 1963. In this course, both through reading and through studying Maharishi’s videotapes, students investigate the main themes of the book — Being, the essential constituent of creation, how to contact and how to live Being, how live one’s full potential, in thought, speech, action, and relationships, and God-realization.
  • Sanskrit
    • This course introduces the proper pronunciation and reading of Sanskrit, the language of the Vedic literature. Students learn the Sanskrit alphabet and the Devanāgarī script, and they study Maharishi’s explanation of the role of Sanskrit as the language of nature.
  • Yoga for Higher States
    • This course examines Maharishi’s lectures and writings in order to better understand the principles of Yoga philosophy as found in its source texts — principally the Bhagavad-Gita and Patanjali Yoga Sutra. Topics include: the difference between the “state of Yoga” and the “path of Yoga”; Yoga and the brain; Yoga and health; Yoga and the realization of full human potential; Yoga and dharma; misunderstandings about Yoga; the nature of Karma Yoga, Gyan Yoga, Bhakti Yoga, Raja Yoga, and Ashtanga Yoga; Yoga and world peace; Yoga and TM-Sidhi practice; Yoga in human physiology.
  • Philosophy of Action in the Bhagavad Gita
    • In this course, students study Maharishi’s commentary on the Bhagavad-Gītā, which provides a systematic exposition of the development of human consciousness, its relationship to knowledge, and its application to improve the quality of individual and collective life. This course covers all six chapters.

More courses

  • Principles of Maharishi Vedic Science
    • In this course, students discover the fabrics of immortality in their own physiology. Topics include: the self-interacting dynamics of consciousness, the Constitution of the Universe, the forty aspects of the Veda and Vedic literature, Maharishi’s Apaurusheya Bhāshya, Ṛk Veda, and Vedic Devatā in the human physiology.
  • The Unified Field of Physics and Consciousness
    • This course demonstrates how the historical development of unified quantum field theory has been intimately concerned with resolving the apparent opposition between observer and observed. In this context, the student can readily understand how Maharishi Vedic Science completes and enriches the most sophisticated discoveries of advanced physics.
  • Enlightenment
    • This course investigates Maharishi’s description of higher states of consciousness that arise naturally and spontaneously through practice of the Transcendental Meditation and TM-Sidhi programs. Personal experience, scientific research, and the record of ancient Vedic texts are used to understand higher states of consciousness.
  • Collective Consciousness and Leadership
    • This course examines how any nation can create a problem-free, prevention-oriented government on a par with the government of nature. Topics will include: the structure and function of the total potential of Natural Law, and how Natural Law can be engaged to bring ideal government to every nation; the significance of collective consciousness and its effect on government; and scientific research on Vedic technologies that align individual and national consciousness with the infinite intelligence and creative power of nature’s government, which administers the universe with perfect order.
  • Models of Development of Consciousness
    • In this course, you will examine major models of consciousness and human development that explain the transformations of your sense of self through the lifespan. This course allows you to locate your life experience in perspectives on social, mental and ego development and the experience of higher states of consciousness.
  • Capstone
    • In this course, students review their growth and understanding of higher states of consciousness by writing an academic paper on the application of Transcendental meditation to a particular problem in society, such as those found in education, health, etc. In addition, students give written and oral feedback on their education experience in the MA program.

To graduate, students must also satisfy the general requirements for a master’s degree

Current class schedule for the MA in Consciousness & Human Potential

Specializations

Students in the MA in Consciousness & Human Potential may add a specialization to their degree by completing additional coursework in one of the following areas:

  • Specialization in Advanced Maharishi Vedic Science
  • Requires 18 credits of coursework in classes that were not taken for the MA in MVS or have been significantly reformulated with new books and materials since they were taken or MVS 520 Advanced Studies in Maharishi Vedic Science.
  • Specialization in Physiology and Health
    • Requires 18 credits of graduate courses in Physiology and Health.
  • Specialization in Reading the Vedic Literature

    • Requires 18 credits of coursework selected from the following:

    • MVS 525 Sanskrit and Maharishi Vedic Science
    • MVS 526 Sanskrit
    • MVS 527 Advanced Sanskrit
    • MVS 534 Readings in Vedic Literature
  • Specialization in TM Teacher Training
    • Requires MVS 490 Transcendental Meditation Technique Teacher Training
    (Students who have successfully completed the TM Teacher Training course before they take the MA courses will automatically graduate with a specialization in TM Teacher Training)

Become a TM teacher

Tannel-meditating-16-9

As part of the Teaching Training Course (TTC) track in your MA CHP degree program, you can apply to be trained as a teacher of the TM technique.

TTC is a five-month in-residence course. Acceptance, cost, location, and content is determined by an outside organization that conducts the course. Previous courses have taken place in Bali, the Netherlands, Thailand, and Maharishi Vedic City (near Fairfield, Iowa). While the cost of TTC is established by an organization separate from MIU, pursuing the TTC track as part of your degree program gives you access to federal student aid to put toward the cost of the course.

Career opportunities for teachers exist at TM Centers and through The David Lynch Foundation, which has taught the TM technique to at-risk youth in the US and worldwide.

Graduates from the MA program say

johannes schweigel

Johannes Schweigel

johannes schweigel

PhD student
Graduated in 2020

“It’s amazing how much growth I have experienced in just one year. I started out with an almost obsessive curiosity to understand everything. I am still curious but now I can dive deeply into knowledge without any sense of pressure. My physiology has relaxed and I simply enjoy life more and more with each day.”

Brock Bond

Brock Bond

Brock Bond

Baseball coach and TM teacher
Graduated in 2016

“I am really glad I did the MA in Consciousness & Human Potential. It is a unique degree which focuses on developing the student from a deeper level.”

Kathy Connor

Kathy Connor

Kathy Connor

Certified Teacher of the TM program
Graduated in 2018

“As the representative of this knowledge in my community of meditators, I feel I am more proficient and confident because of the MA degree program.”

Gaelen Armstrong

Gaelen Armstrong

Gaelen Armstrong

Metal artist
Graduated in 2013

“It fostered a personal growth that I value, and I think it’s made me a better, more capable person.”

Doug Shannon

Doug Shannon

Doug Shannon

Entertainer and former College Communications Professor
Graduated in 2012

“This degree program was one of the best experiences of my life. I would do it again without question. It was extremely rewarding, and is something I will treasure for the rest of my life.”

Margot Suettmann


Margot Suettmann

Margot Suettmann

PhD researcher
Graduated in 2013

“It gave me a new outlook and perspective in my research field.”

Featured faculty

TomEgenes300

Tom Egenes

TomEgenes300

Dr. Thomas Egenes is Professor of Maharishi Vedic Science and Sanskrit. He earned an MA and PhD in Religious Studies from the University of Virginia; an MA in Higher Education Administration from Maharishi International University; and a BA in Philosophy from the University of Notre Dame.

All Department Faculty

Cost & Aid, 2023-24

US On-Campus Students

US On-Campus MA in Consciousness & Human Potential

This program is typically two semesters (one academic year).

One Academic Year Tuition and Fees
Tuition and fees$16,530
Federal student loans-$16,530
Your payment$0

Federal student loans are also available for approximately $14,000 for housing, meals, books, and personal expenses.

Additional Financial Aid Information

Federal Student Loans

Your FAFSA automatically qualifies you for the majority of federal student loans for this program. The remaining portion is composed of Federal Graduate PLUS loans that require “no adverse credit” or an endorser. Repayment begins after your enrollment ends.

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.

US Online Students

US Online MA in Consciousness & Human Potential

The duration of this program is 3 years. There are two semesters per year. The tuition listed here is subject to changes in future years.

One Academic Year Tuition and Fees
Tuition and fees$6,590
Low interest federal loans$-6,590
Your payment$0
Optional: additional low interest federal loans$10,000

Additional Financial Aid Information

Personal Expenses

$10,000 per year in optional federal student loans are available toward living expenses.

Federal Student Loans

Your FAFSA automatically qualifies you for the majority of federal student loans for this program. The remaining portion is composed of Federal Graduate PLUS loans which require “no adverse credit” or an endorser. Repayment begins after your enrollment ends.

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.

International On-Campus Students

International On-Campus MA in Consciousness & Human Potential

This program is typically two semesters (one academic year).


Annual Cost
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
Estimated net price$29,422
Tuition, other fees, scholarships, and financial policies are subject to change prior to the entry date.

International Online Students

International Online MA in Consciousness & Human Potential

The duration of this program is 3 years. There are two semesters per year. The tuition listed here is for one semester at the current year rate, subject to changes in future years.

Semester Cost
Tuition and fees$3,295
Your Payment$3,295
Tuition, other fees, scholarships, and financial policies are subject to change prior to the entry date.

Entrance Requirements

  • Hold a bachelor’s degree or equivalent in any field.
  • Apply for admission.
  • Completion of the MIU admissions process, including submitting official transcripts, a recommendation, all materials listed above, and an admissions interview.

Additional requirements

  • Essay

    Essay

    • Read the two sections (3 pages) in The Science of Being and Art of Living by Maharishi Mahesh Yogi What is Being? and Being is the Essential Constituent of Creation.  We recommend that applicants purchase the book, available in softcover at MIU Press and in ebook at Amazon, but you may also view and download the relevant pages.
    • In 700-800 words, respond to the following: “Discuss Maharishi’s description of the nature of Being as the essential constituent of creation.” This should be double-spaced in Times New Roman 12 pt font.
    • Please email your essay directly to your admissions counselor.
  • English language verification

    International applicants must submit official English proficiency test scores within the past 2 years of at least 110 on Duolingo, 6.5 on IELTS Academic, 90 on TOEFL iBT or 58 on PTE.

  • All MIU students practice the Transcendental Meditation® technique. If you have not learned it yet:
    • Once accepted as a US student, the cost of TM instruction is covered through a grant offered by MIU
    • On-campus students are asked to learn the TM technique before arrival
    • Online students are required to learn the TM technique before starting the first class
    • Contact your admissions counselor for details
    • Find information on the TM technique or search for a TM teacher at TM.org

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