The University of Ottawa is launching a French version of its Master of Arts (MA) program in Psychedelics and Consciousness Studies, providing a bilingual offering of this Canadian-first advanced research program into the therapeutic potentials of psychedelics.
This interdisciplinary program was developed through a collaboration between the Faculty of Social Sciences and the Faculty of Arts to advance research in psychology, consciousness studies, comparative mysticism, and psychedelic-assisted interventions. The establishment of the French program follows the launch of this same MA in English in 2024.
"The interdisciplinary approach of this program is grounded in psychological science and built upon traditional and cultural perspectives."
Dr. Monnica Williams, Program co-director and professor in the School of Psychology
Designed to offer an in-depth exploration of the potential of psychedelic substances in the fields of mental health, spirituality, ritual practices, and cultures throughout human history, the curriculum includes specialized training for mental health professionals and spiritual care providers to address emerging needs in these fields.
"We are very excited to now offer this program in French to help advance academic research and therapeutic practice," explains Dr. Monnica Williams, program co-director and professor in the School of Psychology. "The interdisciplinary approach of this program is grounded in psychological science and built upon traditional and cultural perspectives. It will be led by world-class faculty and an immersive experiential opportunity for learning."
The innovative program integrates unique interdisciplinary perspectives, combining psychology, neuroscience, spiritual traditions, and culturally responsive therapeutic practices.
"The program examines spirituality as a dimension of human experience that frequently emerges in psychedelic states while remaining grounded in cultural, ethical, and scholarly analysis."
Dr. Anne Vallely, Program co-director and professor of Classics and Religious Studies
The program is offered both on a full-time and part-time student and is open to international applicants. It is intended for:
- Licensed professionals in mental health and medicine.
- Clergy members, chaplains, and spiritual care providers.
- Shamanic or traditional practitioners working with entheogens.
- Researchers seeking to deepen their work in this growing field.
"The program is unique in that it examines spirituality as a dimension of human experience that frequently emerges in psychedelic states particularly in relation to meaning, purpose, and existential transformation while remaining grounded in cultural, ethical, and scholarly analysis," says Dr. Anne Vallely, program co-director and professor of Classics and Religious Studies. "Since the program began, francophone students have been highly represented in our cohorts. We are very pleased to now be able to offer a fully French-language stream that reflects this strong and sustained interest."
For more information on admission requirements, course offerings, and application deadlines, please visit the program webpage or contact the Faculty of Social Sciences graduate studies office.
