Astrology is everywhere: websites, newspapers, magazines, blogs, and social media. It’s memed widely and frequently. We may laugh at the memes, but some of us take a second look and delve deeper into the subject. Depending on your interest level and dedication, you could turn a passion for astrology into a career. While it’s not your average vocational choice, astrology careers can offer promising opportunities.
Formal Education Options
You can’t get an astrology degree at most colleges or universities, but you can find dedicated training programs in the field. Kepler College specializes in astrological education, offering a wide range of courses and workshops to hobbyists and professionals alike. Kepler’s certificate programs include natal astrology, forecasting, and alternative traditions. Learners can also choose between two diploma programs: professional and advanced professional. You won’t be able to use federal student aid to attend Kepler, but scholarships are available through Kepler itself or several professional astrology organizations.
Kepler is the most well-known astrology school, but other educational options exist. The International Society of Astrological Research, which offers professional certification for astrologers, lists several schools that meet its standards. Many have online programs, including the International Academy of Astrology, the Academy of AstroPsychology, and the Avalon School of Astrology.
If formal education isn’t feasible right now, you can still learn more about astrology through self-study. The Astrology Podcast is a good place to start. In a May 2015 episode, astrologer Kelly Surtees recommends several texts plus magazines and free online materials. Studying birth charts, chatting with astrologers, and attending conferences are also excellent ways to learn and eventually begin astrology careers.
Obtaining Your Certification
With a professional astrologer certification, you’ll have an easier time finding work in the field. ISAR’s certification program is respected throughout the industry, and it’s one of the largest astrological certifying bodies in the world. To earn an ISAR Certificate of Astrological Proficiency, you must complete a series of training courses and exams in basic astrological skills, ethics, consulting, and specialty areas such as sidereal astrology and research methods. You can earn a certification directly through ISAR’s training program. However, courses taken at ISAR-approved schools will also meet some certification requirements.
Of course, ISAR isn’t your only option. The Organization for Professional Astrology also offers certifications, but it uses a slightly different process. Through OPA’s peer group evaluations, it determines whether an astrologer can consult clients with clear and ethical approaches. This program also includes an Integrative Skills Training course plus a basic astronomy curriculum.
Finding Your First Job
So you’ve earned your certificate or diploma and you’ve received your professional certification. What are the next steps? In truth, it’s a good idea to think about those steps before you finish your curriculum and pursue certification. If you haven’t talked to astrologers while studying independently, it’s wise to do so while you’re in school. Networking can be incredibly useful, especially to find helpful contacts and opportunities. Of course, you aren’t just looking for future jobs; you’re sharing your thoughts, ideas, and passion for the art of astrology. Also, consider joining professional organizations such as ISAR, OPA, or the Association for Astrological Networking.
Apprenticeships are a great way to step into the field of astrology careers without diving in headfirst. While working with an experienced astrologer, you may draw up birth charts, create horoscopes, and eventually counsel clients. A senior astrologer can mentor you, point out your strengths, and give you advice on areas of needed improvement. Beyond apprenticeships, career options include independent practice, helping others learn astrology, and creating media content such as written horoscopes and videos.
Is Your Future in the Stars?
Astrology is a unique career choice with many possible paths. Choosing it requires a passion for the art, the willingness to learn, and the desire to keep expanding your knowledge. While providing counsel and helping others, you’re enriching yourself both mentally and spiritually.