Course summary

The study of magic and occult sciences spans historical, literary and social science approaches, covering witchcraft, folklore, Western Esotericism, occult traditions in Christianity, Islam, and Judaism, as well as links to gender, sexuality, philosophy, metaphysics, nature, and the history of science and medicine. This interdisciplinary programme unites experts across the University of Exeter, building on its internationally recognised strengths. Partly based in the Institute of Arab and Islamic Studies (IAIS) - one of the smallest and most diverse departments at the University - it benefits from a vibrant PhD community representing over 30 countries. This setting ensures that Arabo-Islamic heritage is central to the study of magic and the occult, restoring its influence in the shaping of the “West” and fostering a truly global perspective. The programme also draws on the History Department’s dynamic expertise, spanning the early medieval to the late 20th century, with research strengths covering Britain, continental Europe, the United States, Africa and India. As interest in magic and occult science grows in academia, projects such as Arghavan Moharrami’s People of the Wind: On Black Esoteric and Occult Tradition in the Persian Gulf exemplify the programme’s mission to uncover overlooked traditions and reimagine the cultural connections shaping our world. To learn more about modules, assessment methods, facilities and our staff research expertise please visit our course page.