Open Learning Program in Applied Astrology Assessment
Students following the assessment stream will complete an assignment for each module of the program. Most of the assignments for the Certificate in Applied Astrology are reflective by nature asking the student to consider an aspect of their own horoscope using the astrological perspective and techniques that have been studied in the module. For the Diploma in Applied Astrology the assignments focus on the study of horoscopes.
There are two tiers in the Open Learning Program in Applied Astrology. The first eight units encompass the Certificate in Applied Astrology which is a complete foundation course including the four fundamental principles – signs, planets, houses and aspects – along with accompanying astrological essentials, horoscope analysis, cycles, transits and progressions. At the end of the first level the student has undertaken a detailed study.
The second tier, the Diploma in Applied Astrology, approaches the practice and profession of astrology focusing on the skill of analysing and presenting the horoscope. At this level the student is in a transition to becoming a professional astrologer, aware of the dynamics of horoscope interpretation, ethics and counselling.
Following are the requirements for each tier of the Astro*Synthesis Open Learning Program in Applied Astrology
Certificate in Applied Astrology
There are eight assignments, one per module, included in the assessment. The assignments build throughout the course. The first assignment is 750 words, while the final assignment will be 2500 words. Most of the assignments are self-reflective so the student becomes more familiar with their own horoscope and the revelations and insights possible when participating in the symbols of the horoscope.
A final exam is completed at the end of Unit 8. The student has 6 weeks to finish the two-part exam. Part A examines the technical understanding and calculations of transits and progressions as well as general knowledge, while Part B tests delineation skills and general knowledge of the natal and progressed horoscope.
Diploma in Applied Astrology
There are five assignments to be completed. Each module includes an assignment of 2,000 – 2,500 words which is completed at the end of each unit. The first four assignments are based on the core modules, Units 9 – 12. The 5th assignment is self-directed, created by the student out of a particular interest or elective study.
A central focus of the Diploma is the thesis component. Students choose their final thesis on an astrological area or topic of their own choice. This project is usually completed after all the other assignments and requirements of the program have been finished; however this is not always the case, as some prefer to begin their research at any time during the program. The subject matter is approved by your tutor, Brian Clark, who will be your supervisor during the process of writing the thesis. The word limit including footnotes and appendix is minimum 12,500 words and a maximum of 15,000 words. The thesis must be completed within 18 months from the date that the topic is approved.
As part of the thesis component of the course the student will be supervised. This will include the original consultation to have a general discussion about the thesis and writing. Throughout the research and writing, there will be a minimum of four meetings to discuss the progress of the thesis, research, sources, investigate ideas and receive feedback on what has been written to date. The student will submit the current version of the thesis chapter that they are working on before these meetings. When the final draft of the thesis is near completion, the student can submit this for feedback and comment. The fee for this unit is AU $495.00 which includes the supervision sessions, the reading of the drafts and guidance on writing and preparation of the thesis.
Another important aspect of the Diploma is Counselling and Supervision. We ask each candidate to pursue some counselling training which will support them in their astrological practice. Part of this process will also include supervision which can be done in person, via Skype or phone. There will be sessions of one hour each with a tutor who will mentor and guide your progress with clients and on the issues that arise in the process of astrological consultancy.