Jyotish Courses: School, College, University, Institute, Organization

Jyotish Courses: School, College, University, Institute, Organization

If you’re looking to study astrology formally, there are several reputable schools, colleges, universities, institutes, and organizations worldwide offering courses, certifications, and degrees. Below is a curated list based on available information, focusing on institutions that provide structured programs in astrology, including both Western and Vedic (Jyotish) traditions. I’ve included options for online, in-person, and distance learning, as well as notable organizations that support astrological education.

Schools and Institutes

1. Astrology University (Online, Global)
   • Overview: Offers high-quality online astrology courses and webinars taught by professional astrologers. It focuses on Western astrology with a structured curriculum for beginners to advanced learners.
   • Programs: Includes live classes, mentorship, and personalized feedback. Courses cover chart interpretation, predictive techniques, and more.
   • Highlights: Accessible worldwide, flexible learning, and a community-driven approach. Described as “excellent” and “well-organized” by students.
   • Website: www.astrologyuniversity.com
2. Faculty of Astrological Studies (FAS) (UK, Global)
   • Overview: A renowned institution offering structured astrology education, including a free taster course for beginners. It emphasizes Western astrology.
   • Programs: Online and in-person courses, including a Diploma in Astrology. They also host a Summer School at Exeter College, Oxford (August 15–22, 2025).
   • Highlights: High-quality teaching, expert tutors, and flexible learning options. Students praise the transformative experience and supportive community.
   • Contact: info@astrology.org.uk
   • Website: www.astrology.org.uk
3. London School of Astrology (LSA) (UK, Global)
   • Overview: One of the UK’s leading astrology schools, offering online and in-person classes for over 21 years. Focuses on Western astrology.
   • Programs: Comprehensive courses with pre-recorded sessions, live tutorials, and Q&A sessions. Suitable for beginners to advanced students.
   • Highlights: Practical and vibrant approach, with branches in China and Japan. Student reviews highlight the course’s accessibility and engaging content.
   • Website: www.londonschoolofastrology.com
4. International School of Astrology (ISA) (India, Global)
   • Overview: A leading Indian institute offering online and classroom-based Vedic astrology courses. It aims to produce certified astrologers.
   • Programs: Diploma courses with international certification, covering basic to advanced predictive techniques. Includes career guidance and placement support.
   • Highlights: Small class sizes, personal attention, and globally recognized certifications. Registered under the Ministry of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises, India.
   • Website: internationalschoolofastrology.com
5. All India Institute of Occult Science (New Delhi, India)
   • Overview: Offers courses in Vedic astrology, Vastu, numerology, palmistry, and more, with both online and offline modes.
   • Programs: Short batches (10–15 students) for personalized learning. Led by Gurudev Shrie Kashyap, a noted astrologer.
   • Highlights: Positive student feedback for faculty support and practical learning opportunities, including site visits and TV program exposure.
   • Website: www.occultscience.in
6. Shree Maharshi College of Vedic Astrology (India)
   • Overview: A prominent institute offering Vedic astrology education, including online and distance learning options.
   • Programs: Diploma in Astrology, covering numerology, palmistry, and tarot reading. Admission is merit-based.
   • Highlights: Affordable fees (INR 4,000–14,000 annually) and a focus on practical skills for professional astrologers.
   • Website: mcvudaipur.com
7. Indian Institute of Astrology (Kolkata, India)
   • Overview: Focuses on Vedic astrology, offering courses like Jyotirbid, Jyotish Ratna, and Jyotish Shastri.
   • Programs: Includes research, publications, and collaboration with planetariums and museums for mundane predictions.
   • Highlights: Emphasizes the scientific and artistic aspects of astrology, encouraging student research.
   • Website: iiakolkata.co.in

Universities and Colleges

1. University of Wales Trinity Saint David – Cultural Astronomy and Astrology (MA) (UK, Global)
   • Overview: Offers the world’s only accredited MA in Cultural Astronomy and Astrology, taught through the Sophia Centre for the Study of Cosmology in Culture.
   • Programs: A fully online, multidisciplinary program exploring the human relationship with the cosmos, covering history, anthropology, and archeoastronomy.
   • Highlights: Focuses on critical thinking and independent research. Ideal for those interested in the cultural and historical aspects of astrology. Graduates develop skills valued in academia and non-academic fields.
   • Website: www.uwtsd.ac.uk
2. Kepler College (USA)
   • Overview: A well-known institution in the US offering structured astrology education, primarily in Western astrology.
   • Programs: Certificate and diploma programs focusing on astrological techniques and chart interpretation.
   • Highlights: Recognized for its academic approach and comprehensive curriculum. Often recommended in astrology communities.
   • Website: www.keplercollege.org
3. California Institute of Integral Studies – Department of Philosophy, Cosmology, and Consciousness (USA)
   • Overview: Offers a degree program where astrology can be studied as part of a broader curriculum in cosmology and consciousness. Associated with Richard Tarnas, author of Cosmos and Psyche.
   • Programs: Graduate-level studies with a focus on the philosophical and cultural aspects of astrology.
   • Highlights: Ideal for those seeking a blend of astrology with academic disciplines like philosophy and psychology.
   • Website: www.ciis.edu
4. Indian Universities Offering Jyotish (Vedic Astrology) (India)
   • Overview: Since 2000, the University Grants Commission (UGC) in India has supported Vedic astrology (Jyotir Vigyan) as a degree course in several universities.
   • Notable Institutions:
     • Banaras Hindu University (Varanasi): Offers BA and MA in Jyotish.
     • Shri Lal Bahadur Shastri National Sanskrit University (New Delhi): Provides certificate and diploma courses like Jyotish Praveshika (6 months), Jyotish Pragya (1 year), and Bhaishajya Jyotish (Medical Astrology, 1 year).
     • Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU): Offers an MA in Jyotish through distance learning since June 2021.
     • Mewar University: Offers MA in Astrology with positive student testimonials.
     • Rashtriya Sanskrit Vidyapeeth (Bihar): Includes Jyotish in its curriculum.
     • Pt. Sunderlal Sharma Open University (Chhattisgarh): Offers Jyotish courses.
   • Highlights: These programs focus on Vedic astrology, combining traditional knowledge with modern applications. Admission is typically merit-based, with eligibility starting at 10+2.

Organizations Supporting Astrology Education

1. National Council for Geocosmic Research (NCGR) (USA, Global)
   • Overview: A leading organization promoting astrological education and research, with chapters worldwide.
   • Programs: Offers certification programs, workshops, and conferences. Their curriculum includes beginner to professional levels.
   • Highlights: Focuses on both education and community-building, with resources for self-study and professional development.
   • Website: www.geocosmic.org
2. American Federation of Astrologers (AFA) (USA, Global)
   • Overview: A professional organization offering certification exams and educational resources for astrologers.
   • Programs: Self-study courses, webinars, and annual conferences. Certifications are recognized globally.
   • Highlights: Emphasizes professional standards and ethical practice in astrology.
   • Website: www.astrologers.com
3. International Society for Astrological Research (ISAR) (Global)
   • Overview: A global organization dedicated to astrological research and education.
   • Programs: Offers certification programs, online courses, and international conferences.
   • Highlights: Focuses on advancing astrological knowledge through research and collaboration.
   • Website: www.isarastrology.org

Key Considerations

• Western vs. Vedic Astrology: Western astrology (e.g., Astrology University, FAS, LSA) focuses on psychological and interpretive approaches, while Vedic astrology (e.g., ISA, Indian universities) emphasizes predictive techniques and ancient Indian traditions.
• Program Types: Options range from short certificate courses (6 months–1 year) to full degrees (BA, MA). Online and distance learning are widely available, making astrology education accessible globally.
• Career Prospects: A diploma or degree in astrology can lead to careers as a professional astrologer, consultant, or educator. Salaries in India range from INR 1–8 lakhs annually for diploma holders.
• Accreditation: Most astrology programs are not accredited in the traditional academic sense, except for the MA at the University of Wales. However, certifications from reputable institutes like ISA or FAS are globally recognized in astrological communities.
• Skepticism: Astrology is considered a pseudoscience by some, so academic programs may face scrutiny. Choose institutions with strong reputations to ensure credibility.
• For Beginners: Start with a free taster course from the Faculty of Astrological Studies or Astrology University to explore Western astrology. For Vedic astrology, consider ISA’s online diploma or IGNOU’s MA Jyotish.
• For Advanced Learners: Pursue a diploma from FAS or LSA for Western astrology, or an advanced course from Shree Maharshi College or Indian Institute of Astrology for Vedic astrology.
• For Academic Study: The MA in Cultural Astronomy and Astrology at the University of Wales is ideal for a scholarly approach.
• For Community and Certification: Join organizations like NCGR, AFA, or ISAR for networking and professional credentials.

Notable Schools, Colleges, Universities, Institutes, and Organisations in Astrology

Astrology is taught and practiced through a variety of educational institutions and professional organizations. Below is a structured overview of prominent entities across these categories.

1. Astrology Schools & Institutes

• International School of Astrology
  Offers courses in astrology, numerology, tarot, vastu, palmistry, and reiki both in-person (Delhi) and online across major Indian cities.

• Institute of Astrology, Bhartiya Vidya Bhavan, Delhi
  Known for structured courses and research in Vedic astrology.

• Shree Maharshi College of Vedic Astrology
  Provides diploma, post-graduate, and PhD courses in Vedic astrology, palmistry, and vastu via distance education.

• Occult Gurukul
  Trains students in astrology, tarot, numerology, vastu, and related occult sciences through foundation and advanced programs.

• Institute of Vedic Astrology
  Specializes in Vedic astrology, vastu, and numerology with a focus on traditional and modern techniques.

• All India Institute of Occult Science
  Premier institute offering flexible, online, and offline courses in astrology and allied subjects.

2. Astrology Colleges

Note: Eligibility and fees may vary; refer to college websites for details.

3. Astrology Universities

• Banaras Hindu University (BHU)

  • Recognized for degree programs in Jyotisha (traditional Hindu astrology).

• IGNOU (Indira Gandhi National Open University)

  • Offers M.A. in Jyotish via distance learning mode.

• Annamalai University

  • Houses a dedicated department for Jyotisha as part of Tamil studies.

• Sampurnanand Sanskrit Vishwavidyalaya

  • Historic university specializing in Jyotisha and Vedic studies.

• Uttarakhand Sanskrit University

  • Offers BA, MA, and higher degrees in astrology and Sanskrit studies.

4. Astrological Organisations (Professional & Research)

• ICAS – Indian Council of Astrological Sciences

  • Apex educational and certifying body in India, offering several courses and conducting nationwide exams.

• AIFAS – All India Federation of Astrologers Society

  • Provides education and networking for astrologers, with a large presence across India.

• AFAN – Association for Astrological Networking

  • Global outreach and support for professional astrologers.

• ISAR – International Society for Astrological Research

  • Known for certifications, research, and ethical promotion of astrology.

• OPA – Organization for Professional Astrology

  • Focused on professional standards and personal growth in the field.

• Astrological Association of Great Britain

  • Engages in publishing and research, and organizes conferences.

• National Council for Geocosmic Research (NCGR)

  • Runs educational conferences, publishes journals, and supports research efforts.

5. Special Mention: Global Online Schools

• Astrology University

  • Online platform offering a structured curriculum and expert-led courses in Western astrology.

Key Points

• Diversity: You can study astrology through traditional universities, dedicated colleges, practical institutes, or via professional organizations.

• Specializations: Courses range from diploma and certificate to doctoral degrees, offered both in-person and via distance/on-line learning.

• Global Reach: While many institutions are based in India (focusing on Vedic Jyotisha), numerous international organizations and online schools provide Western and modern astrological education.

Astrology as a field is supported by a robust infrastructure of educational bodies and organizations, catering to various philosophical and technical branches of the subject.

Astrology, while often seen as a spiritual or predictive art, is also taught and studied through various formal and informal channels. In India, particularly, there’s a strong tradition of astrological education.

Universities and Colleges:

Some traditional universities and colleges in India offer formal courses in Jyotisha (Vedic Astrology), often as part of Sanskrit or ancient studies departments. These can range from diplomas to postgraduate and even doctoral programs.

• Banaras Hindu University (BHU), Varanasi: Has a Department of Jyotish that offers courses in Indian Astrology (Jyotisha), classifying it into Siddanta, Samhita, and Hora.
• Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU): Offers online and distance learning programs in astrology, providing comprehensive knowledge about Vedic astrology, planetary movements, and horoscope analysis.
• Mewar University: Has a Department of Astrology under its Faculty of Alternative Therapy, focusing on Indian Astrology, Mathematical & Prediction Astrology, Medical Astrology, Vastu Astrology, Numerology, and Palmistry.
• University of Lucknow: Introduced “Jyotir Vigyan” as a regular subject in 2001, offering BA and MA programs.
• Sastra University, Thanjavur, Tamil Nadu: Offers undergraduate and postgraduate courses in Astrology.
• Madurai Kamaraj University, Madurai: Offers undergraduate and postgraduate courses in Astrology.
• Shree Maharshi College of Vedic Astrology, Udaipur: Offers various courses including Diploma, PG Diploma, Master’s, and Ph.D. in Astrology.
• Bharati Institute of Vedic Astrology (BIVA), New Delhi
• IIFA Lancaster Degree College, Karnataka
• Himalaya Ayurvedic Medical College and Hospital, Dehradun

Institutes and Schools:

Beyond traditional universities, many specialized institutes and schools focus entirely on astrology and related occult sciences. These often offer certificate, diploma, and advanced programs.

• Indian Council of Astrological Sciences (ICAS): A prominent apex body established by Dr. B.V. Raman, it has centers across the country and offers various courses like Jyotisha Praveena, Jyotisha Visharada, Nadi Praveena, Vastu Praveena, and Hasta Rekha.
• Institute of Vedic Astrology (IVA), Indore: Offers professional courses in Vedic Astrology, Vedic Vastu, and Numerology.
• All India Institute of Occult Science, New Delhi: A government-registered institute offering internationally recognized certifications in astrology, Vastu, numerology, palmistry, tarot card reading, and Reiki. They provide both online and offline modes of education.
• Indian Institute of Astrology, Kolkata: Established in 1978, it aims to provide quality education in astrology and offers courses like Jyotish Visharad, Jyotirbid, Jyotish Ratna, and Hastarekhabid.
• International School of Astrology, New Delhi: Provides a wide variety of courses in astrology.
• Occult Gurukul: Offers basic and advanced courses in various occult sciences, including astrology, palmistry, numerology, tarot reading, Vastu Shastra, and graphology, with a focus on practical application and career opportunities.
• The Astrology Academy of India, New Delhi: Offers courses in Vedic Astrology, Vastu, and Palmistry, focusing on both theoretical and practical knowledge.
• Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan’s K.N. Rao Institute of Astrology, New Delhi: A well-known institute that offers Jyotish Alankar and Jyotish Acharya courses, emphasizing classical Vedic Astrology and research. They do not endorse certain modern remedial measures.

Organizations and Federations:

These bodies often work to promote astrology, set standards, conduct examinations, and unite astrologers.

• All India Federation of Astrologers Society (AIFAS): Aims to spread awareness about esoteric sciences, conducts courses in association with Future Point Pvt. Ltd., and acts as a platform for astrologers, Vastu consultants, and numerologists to register, teach, and learn.
• Indian Council of Astrological Sciences (ICAS): As mentioned above, it’s also a major organization that governs astrological education and certification in India.
• Astronomical Society of India (ASI): While primarily focused on astronomy (the scientific study of celestial objects), it’s important to distinguish it from astrological organizations. However, understanding astronomical principles is often a foundational aspect of astrological study.

When considering studying astrology, it’s advisable to research the curriculum, faculty, recognition of the certificate/degree, and the practical application of the knowledge offered by different institutions.