PSD2001 Introduction to Psychedelic Science

Gain a multidisciplinary introduction to psychedelics in the 12-week PSD2001 - Introduction to Psychedelic Science course by Monash University.

  • 50 Enrolled
  • University
  • Last updated Jan '25
  • English
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Monash University
Course Description

PSD2001 – Introduction to Psychedelic Science offers a foundational exploration of the rapidly advancing field of psychedelic science. Over 12 weeks, this undergraduate unit provides a multidisciplinary overview of the historical, cultural, and scientific dimensions of psychedelics. Students will examine topics such as indigenous practices, the modern resurgence of psychedelics in therapy, psychopharmacology, phenomenology, and contemporary research methodologies. Delivered entirely online, the course includes live and recorded sessions featuring world-leading experts, ensuring accessible and engaging learning experiences.

Participants will delve into ethical and legal considerations, current debates, and the future potential of psychedelic science. With no prior knowledge required, this unit is designed to provide a comprehensive introduction, preparing students for further study in the field. While it does not qualify learners to practise as psychedelic therapists, it lays a strong academic foundation for understanding the principles and practices of this emerging area of study.

This course is only available to undergraduate students.

You will learn:

  • What is Bwiti?
  • Roles in Bwiti initiation/treatment
  • Instruments in Bwiti: ngombe, mogongo
  • What is an Nganga
    • Maboundi/Yombo
    • Maboundi/Yombo
  • Sustainability/reciprocity

You will learn:

  • History of the Fang tradition
  • Dissumba vs. Dissumba Fang
  • Ombwiri/Mbumbayano Fang
  • The kambo
  • State of Fang Bwiti in Gabon
  • Impact of Westerners coming to work with the sacred wood

You will learn:

  • History of the Missoko tradition
  • Various branches of Missoko initiation:
    • Miobe/Mioba
    • Ngonde Na Dipuma
    • Sengedia
  • The impact of logging on the tradition
  • What the future of Bwiti could look like in Gabon

You will learn:

  • History of Dissumba
  • Various branches of Dissumba initiation:
    • Abanji/Mabanji
    • Ilombo
    • Ombwiri
    • Ombudi
    • Loro
  • The ngombe (sacred harp)
  • Healing rituals involved in her tradition
  • Training to serve the wood
    • What does it involve?
    • How long does it take?

instructor-image

Tatayo

Instructor

About Instructor

Tatayo (“Fruit of the Wind”) first arrived in Gabon in 1971 at the age of 21 and became a Gabonese citizen. In 1979, he became the first white person to be initiated into the Bwiti Fang tradition in Gabon. In 1994, he was initiated into the Misokko tradition. As a guide for numerous expeditions and missions, including those of National Geographic, the BBC, and others, Tatayo is considered to have “opened the door” to westerners in Gabon.

Frequently Asked Questions

Please see below for start and finish dates/times. This course is currently being offered live and dates/times will change throughout the year.

AUD$0

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This course includes

  • Modules 12
  • Duration 12 Weeks
  • Skills University
  • Language English
  • Availability Cohort
  • Certificate No

Course Tags

PSD2001 Introduction to Psychedelic Science Course Image