Local and State laws generally neither prohibit nor encourage astrology; neither do they require certification nor licensure at present. However, those astrologers who are certified are getting better jobs and more recognition than others. Furthermore, most astrologers now recognize that eventually certification will be a necessary step in gaining full legitimacy for the profession of astrology, one which will be taken in the near future. And, people usually take a person who is certified more seriously and place more trust in them. Perhaps most importantly, it assures you of thorough and complete preparation in your chosen profession.

The Certification Program is tied to a curriculum and certification program that has earned international respect; it is unexcelled in its thoroughness, fairness and accuracy in reflecting a person's true abilities. Anyone who has this certification will be virtually guaranteed an open door to licensure when it is required. In the meantime, you will be ensuring yourself a comprehensive education, from planets to professionalism, in the budding field of astrology.

The program typically takes about two years to complete. All classes are offered on a part-time basis; it is customary for students to carry on their other usual activities during their schooling period. Each is a college-level course, with homework and projects. At the end of each course, you have the option of taking the ACP tests, NCGR tests (if applicable), or none at all (which means certification is not provided). Of course, you can decide to take the tests at any time, but they must be taken in order.

I already know a lot about astrology. Do I need to start at the beginning?

No. In fact, you do not need to take this program at all in order to get certified — anyone may take the tests when they are offered. However, in self-study, you may find that you have gaps in your education that would make taking a course wise, even where some materials would be reviewed. What's more, most people find it easier, more motivating and enjoyable to learn with guidance, or in a group or community setting. They also value having the materials presented in a structured, logical and entertaining manner that addresses their personal needs. You can be sure that you will learn the theory and application of astrology as well as how to make your business a success. You may start the program at any level, but you cannot skip any tests. Finally, it is possible to tailor the program to your needs. Let's say that you know how to interpret a natal chart, but you do not know how to cast a chart by hand. You can enroll in specialized tutoring to learn this information.

That having been said however, it is frequently desirable to follow a sequence of classes (lessons) rather than skip a few. There are "binding" concepts that build one upon the next to create a mind map. This mind map gives you a thorough understanding of astrology so that you can figure new things out for yourself based upon the principles and physical realities involved. For instance, if you understand how a birth chart is a representation of the sky, you know which planets were visible at the time of birth.

What testing program are you using?

We administer our own tests and offer our own certification. Alternatively, you can take the tests offered by the National Council for Geocosmic Research (NCGR), whose curriculum standards are also satisfied by this program. There are six ACP tests, one for each course, and four for NCGR. The ACP offers certificates for each level of completion.

Director Terry Lamb is a member of the NCGR Board of Examiners and Education Committee. She was involved in creating the revised tests that are currently in use with NCGR. The ACP tests are structured in a similar way to those of NCGR. In addition, her tests can be taken anywhere in the world under certain conditions.

Do I have to complete the entire program?

To be fully certified, you must pass all the tests. However, if you do not need to be fully certified — let's say that you work in psychology or healing — take only those courses that fulfill your needs. You may take one or two tests, or just use the knowledge under the aegis of your existing certification(s).

How often is each course offered?

For local (San Diego area) classes, each course is offered as needed. Therefore, it is best to try to rearrange your schedule to take the astrology course you need when it is being offered, rather than waiting. Let us know of your interest, so that we can begin new classes as soon as possible. Classes meet once a week for 2½ hours.

For home or on-line study, you can take the courses whenever you want. They are available on tape, CD, or mp3 for download, and are live recordings of real classes taught by our instructors. They come with a complete study guide and course materials. (Books must be purchased separately.)

Courses are 16-17 weeks (lessons) long in the regular weekly format. (See the curriculum.) When covered in another format, the same number of hours and material is provided.

Starting soon, the courses will be offered also on a retreat basis. The material of one course can be covered in one 5-day retreat with interterm study assignments to help you "own" the information and techniques. Contact us to be put on our announce list of upcoming learning events and experiences.

How much work should I be prepared to do?

The courses in this program are as rigorous as a college course, and you should be prepared to do 3-6 hours of work outside class for each classroom lesson. The work that is assigned is designed to give you a broad base of understanding in astrology and to help you develop fluency in astrological expression. Those who do the work outside the classroom are more deeply satisfied with their skill level when they complete their studies and find the tests easier to pass.

I'm excited about this program. What do I do next?

Contact us to discuss the program and how we can meet your educational needs. We will be happy to talk to you personally. When you are ready, we'll send you an application, which you can snail- or e-mail to us. For retreat or local courses, a deposit will be required when you send your application. We will give you an enrollment contract to sign when your course is scheduled or you are ready to start. It will describe the program and financial arrangements that we have agreed upon.

I live outside the San Diego area and cannot relocate. How can I take part in the program?

We now have students studying with ACP from around the world! Our home study, retreat, or on-line options may be the right thing for you. The materials, subjects covered, and assignments - including charts, handouts, reading assignments, and homework — are the same regardless of format. Tutoring (chat) by phone or email adds the personal touch. Five-day intensive retreat courses cover the same material, with the self-study portions of each course to be completed in the interterm period (before the next retreat). When you study with ACP, you join a community of those who want to explore the universe - who want to touch the sky and walk among the stars.

To look at the program's curriculum, click here.
Still have questions? Contact us.

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Copyright 1992 by Terry Lamb