Program Overview

---

PGCert Psychedelics: Mind, Medicine, and Culture (Online) - 2026 entry

Overview

*This PGCert runs in January and September (there is no May entry) therefore depending when you start the course the duration may take up to 12 months. The course may take longer than the minimum 8 months we previously stated, if you take a break between modules.

• Enrol in the UK's first academically certified programme in psychedelics studies.
• Be taught by world-leading academics at the forefront of psychedelic studies.
• Enhance your knowledge and understanding of key theories and approaches to psychedelics in a interdisciplinary programme, building on psychology and philosophy.
• Learn about psychedelic therapy, neuroscience, anthropology, ethics, metaphysics and research methods which are key components of psychedelic studies.

Entry requirements

We are looking for graduates with a 2:1 or above in their first degree in any subject. Applications from candidates who have relevant professional or practical experience will also be considered.

Entry requirements for international students

International students need to show they have the required level of English language to study this course.

The required test scores for this course fall under Profile B2.

Course content

Please note that programme structures may be subject to change. The modules listed here are indicative. The precise modules available to you in future years may vary depending on your point of entry, staff availability and research interests, new topics of study and student demand.

With exponential growth in the number of trials, studies and research into psychedelics, there is growing acceptance that widespread psychedelic therapeutic access could soon be a reality.

This programme has been developed not only for therapists, counsellors and psychiatrists who are interested in branching out into the psychedelic sphere, but also for those with a growing interest in psychedelic research and want to continue their studies in this space. We have a global reputation as leaders in psychedelic healthcare and you will be taught by academics at the forefront of research.

During the course you will be introduced to the practical and theoretical sides of contemporary psychedelic research. It covers different areas of scientific study.

__Modules

_

The following tables describe the programme and constituent modules. Constituent modules may be updated, deleted or replaced as a consequence of the annual review of this programme. Details of the modules currently offered may be obtained from the Faculty website.

Students may enter the programme during two fixed starting dates during the academic calendar, which are January and September. The module running order will be dictated by your entry point and the corresponding module/s available on the carousel model at that entry date.

_

Compulsory modules

Code| Module | Credits
---|---|---
PSYM235Z | Psychedelics: Therapeutic Practice and the Metaphysics of Mind | 30
PSYM236Z | Psychedelics: Neuroscience and Cultural Ethics | 30

Fees and funding

Fees:

£5,000 for full PGCert

To make it easier to budget, you don’t need to pay the total fee upfront. Instead, you can pay for each module as you are about to start studying it. You can pay for the whole year if you prefer, but the minimum payment is at least the cost of the module you are taking that term.

How to pay

You can pay online using a credit or debit card. We are unable to give you access to your study materials before your payment reaches us so it’s important to have your finances in place and pay when prompted to ensure you can access your studies at the start of each term.

Other costs to consider

As well as your fees, there are some potential additional costs to be aware of to ensure that you give yourself the best chance of success. These include a suitable computer or device to study and work from, an adequate internet connection to access your learning materials and connect with others, and a comfortable place to study.

Teaching and learning

The programme is led by a group of world-leading experts in psychedelics, covering a wide array of disciplinary orientations. Exeter is at the forefront of psychedelics research.

Professor Celia Morgan is a psychopharmacologist and a leading researcher on psychedelics as a treatment for addiction. Professor Christine Hauskeller is an expert in philosophy of medicine, sociology and the ethics of emerging healthcare technologies and is examining clinical trial methodology in psychedelic research through this lens. Dr Peter Sjöstedt-Hughes is a Philosopher of Mind and Metaphysics who specialises in altered states of consciousness. Dr Andy Letcher is an Ecologist and Religious Studies scholar with expertise in the critical study of neopaganism, shamanism, animism and psychedelic spiritualities. Dr Leor Roseman is an interdisciplinary psychedelic researcher with a background in neuroscience, psychology, phenomenology, anthropology and peacebuilding.

The programme was developed through a dialogue between the teachers, weaving together different disciplines into a coherent whole.

Online study

Online study provides a flexible approach to postgraduate education, enabling you to enhance your career without interrupting it. To make studying as easy as possible, all your learning will be accessed online in our all-encompassing Exeter Learning Environment (ELE) including:

• Teaching materials – as written, recorded, or animated content
• Quizzes to check your learning and understanding
• Videos, podcasts and articles to read
• Access to electronic books

Your learning will be divided up into a weekly schedule so you can see what work you should aim to get through on a weekly basis.

Supporting you

We are dedicated to making your online education experience as smooth as possible, so that you can achieve your full potential. You will have a dedicated Student Support Advisor who will be your point of contact for advice and guidance and academic support from your module tutor.

Additionally, you will be supported by Wellbeing and Welfare Services, IT and an employability team for career support and advice. For more information, visit our services for online students webpage.

Careers

This course opens doors to a wide array of exciting career opportunities. As the UK's first academically certified programme in the psychedelics field, the course will equip you with the knowledge and skillset to help you stand out from the crowd in this rapidly growing sector.

The PGCert will be beneficial to aspiring psychedelic-assisted psychotherapists, practitioners wishing to upskill, or individuals with an interest in psychedelic research who are looking to continue their studies.

Career support

At the University of Exeter, we have an excellent reputation among recruiters and our students compete very successfully in the job market. The dedicated Career Zone offers careers training, events, advice and mentoring to ensure you have the tools you need to succeed in finding employment in your chosen field. Studying with us not only advances your knowledge but also empowers you for a successful future.