Program Overview

Occultism and Modernity

The course will focus on modern forms of Western esotericism from 18th century Freemasonry to esoteric New Religious Movements such as the modern Witchcraft movement (Wicca), Satanism, and the New Age Movement. More specifically, the course will consider how esoteric practitioners responded to major changes in Western religion and spirituality due to the processes of modernity and secularization. By the end of the course, students will have been acquainted with the major theoretical approaches to the study of Western esotericism as well as several forms of modern esotericism.

Course Details

• Course code: RT2413
• Master's level
• 7.5 credits (ECTS)
• Offered by the Department of Literature, History of Ideas, and Religion at the Faculty of Humanities

Autumn 2025

• Study pace: 50%
• Time: Day
• Location: Göteborg
• Study form: Campus
• Language: English
• Duration: 5 Nov 2025 - 18 Jan 2026
• Application period: 17 Mar 2025 - 15 Apr 2025
• Application code: GU-22120

Distance Learning

• Study pace: 50%
• Time: Mixed time
• Location: Location independent
• Study form: Distance
• Language: English
• Duration: 5 Nov 2025 - 18 Jan 2026
• Application period: 17 Mar 2025 - 15 Apr 2025
• Application code: GU-22124

Tuition

• Full education cost: 12,000 SEK
• First payment: 12,000 SEK
• No fees are charged for EU and EEA citizens, Swedish residence permit holders, and exchange students.

Study Counsellor

• Kristina Svensson

About the Course

The course explores modern forms of Western esotericism, including esoteric New Religious Movements. It considers how esoteric practitioners responded to changes in Western religion and spirituality due to modernity and secularization.

Prerequisites and Selection

Entry Requirements

• Bachelor's degree or University studies equal to a Bachelor's degree, including an approved Bachelor thesis of at least 15 credits.
• Applicants must prove their knowledge of English: English 5/English A from Swedish Upper Secondary School or the equivalent level of an internationally recognized test, for example TOEFL, IELTS.

Selection

• Selection is based upon the number of credits from previous university studies, maximum 165 credits.

Facilities

No specific facilities are mentioned for this course.

Study at the University of Gothenburg

To be admitted to the University, an online application is required. Scholarships for fee-paying students are available to help cover the costs of studies at the University of Gothenburg.