INTRODUCTION TO ASTROLOGY

The Certificate in Applied Astrology is available through distance learning. Astro*Synthesis will continue to present seminars and workshops which cover the essential basics of astrology from an in-depth perspective. From time to time Astro*Synthesis will also sponsor introductory classes for those interested in learning astrology.

COURSE OUTLINE

UNIT 1 : THE WHEEL OF LIFE: Elements and Signs of the Zodiac

This unit begins with an orientation class followed by a thorough examination of the four elements, the three qualities and their psychological correlations and astrological correspondences. Then the twelve signs of the zodiac will be covered in detail. The signs of the zodiac or ‘wheel of life’ symbolise twelve initiatory stages in the individuation process, which represent essential qualities of human experience.

Workshops:

• Psyche and Soma: The Psychology and Physiology of the Four Elements
  
• The Mythology of the Zodiac

UNIT 2: THE ENERGIES OF LIFE: Planetary Archetypes

In this unit we will study the ten planets of contemporary astrology, including the two luminaries. Chiron will also be included as part of the planetary pantheon. Planetary archetypes will be examined with reference to their psychological, mythological and astrological qualities. Metaphorically the planets represent the powerful archetypal urges, energies and instincts underpinning life that motivate and influence every human being.

Workshops:

• Personal Planetary Archetypes: The Inner Planets
  
• Chiron and the Wound of Individuation
  
• Beyond the Personal: The Initiations of Chiron and the Outer Planets

UNIT 3: ASPECTS OF LIFE: The Twelve Houses and Aspects

We begin this unit by introducing the angles of the horoscope: the Ascendant, Descendant, MC, and IC, the reference points of our lives, which orientate us to the world. Then the four quadrants and hemispheres of the horoscope will be examined. The twelve houses will be taught in reference to the process of human development and experience. We will synthesise planets in signs and houses as well as signs on house cusps, beginning to give meaning to astrological statements. Major aspects are the astrological threads that weave the archetypal patterns of our life. Aspects and aspect patterns represent the planetary dialogues and sub-personalities of our horoscope. Aspects as the lifelines between planets will be thoroughly examined including aspect patterns, minor aspects and planetary pictures. Many examples of the complexity of planets in aspect will be shown.

Workshops:

• Astrological Soul Mates and the Houses of Relationship & the
• Houses of EndingsThe Houses of Health and Well Being
  
• Spirit and Matter: The Houses of Life and the Houses of Substance
  
• Understanding Challenging Aspects

UNIT 4: CONSIDERING THE HOROSCOPE: Presentation & Delieation

In this unit astronomy for astrologers will be presented, along with chart calculation and presentation. We will learn to read the ephemeris, table of houses and calculate and present our own horoscopes. As part of this unit we will discuss and demonstrate the Solar Fire astrological software. When we are familiar with the construction of the horoscope we will begin to approach delineation. This will entail some review on the similarity of astrological themes of planets, signs and houses. New material on specialised topics such as the lunar nodes, intercepted signs, retrograde planets, the lunation cycle and the vertex will be covered.

Workshops:

• Calculating the Horoscope
  
• The Lunar Nodes