Become a PhD student through The Alef Trust
Our PhD programme is currently undergoing changes and will be unavailable until the changes are complete. We envisage that the first intake to the new programme will be in 2027. We will notify you as soon as we have the date for new applications.
Format: 100% online. No residential component.
Applied Transpersonal Psychology
As the award title suggests, we are interested in the range of ways in which the principles and practices developed in transpersonal psychology and allied disciplines find expression in real-world applications. Such applications may include social change and sustainability, therapy and coaching, business and human resource management, research and education, and health and social care – to name but a few. Research aiming to address ‘theoretical / conceptual’ issues will also be fostered.
Scope
For the purposes of this programme, we interpret the term ‘transpersonal psychology’ broadly. We are open to any proposed research that relates to the transformative potential of humans, recognising that we are larger and more embedded in the world than many reductionist and functional psychological models suggest, that consciousness may transcend the individual brain, and that our highest aspirations may include experiences and states of being traditionally explored through spirituality and mysticism. We recognise that global issues are paramount and that changing our relationship to earth requires a shift in our understanding of consciousness amongst other changes. Our hope is that this doctoral programme can make a difference to the sense of responsibility that our cultures foster and to the ways in which we relate to other beings.
Study Length
Full time: To study full-time you must be able to commit at least 36 hours per week to your research. For full-time students the thesis can be submitted in a minimum of three years (maximum four years).
Part Time: Part-time students will be expected to devote a minimum of 12 hours per week to their research and can submit their doctoral thesis in a minimum of four years (maximum seven years).
Tuition
Tuition fees will be published in early 2027.
A place on the PhD Programme in Applied Transpersonal Psychology is subject to an admissions process, which takes account of availability of places on the programme and/or other additional requirements.
Entry Criteria
- A Masters degree with a research dissertation in a relevant subject
Additional information
- The applications of those with alternative qualifications will be considered on merit
- Appropriate research and previous experience will be taken into account
- 58-64 (minimum 51 in each component for UKVI purposes)
- IELTS 6.5 (minimum 5.5 in each component)
In addition to the specific entry requirements listed, we also welcome applications from those with non-standard qualifications who can demonstrate knowledge, experience, and skills developed in the workplace or other setting relevant to the programme of research.
If you do not hold the standard academic entry requirements, please use the application form to provide further details. Non-standard applications will be considered by the Admissions Team on a case-by-case basis.
