Department of Alchemy & Magickal Sciences Class Listing
Please note: Classes that are required are listed with a red title and asterisk.
* Technomagick 100 for Adults - Opt Out Test Credits: 1 Level: 1 Instructor: "Dean Meighen" Class Description:
As the world of computers and the Internet grows, more and more threats find ways to disrupt our lives. Here at Grey School, we want to help you learn to defend yourself from these threats. Technomagick 100 will teach you a little about the structure of computers, the history of the Internet, and where the dangers are (and how to avoid them!)
This class is required for all year 1 students before moving on to year 2.
Note: This section of Technomagick 100 is for vGSW students only and must be taken concurrently with the vGSW orientation class.
Required Materials:
Obviously the student is going to need a computer! This does not have to be the student's own personal computer; a shared computer or one accessed in a public facility such as a library is suitable.
Estimated Completion Time: 4 weeks Prerequisites:
Must be 18 or older and enrolled in vGSW Orientation.
Safety Precautions: Included Lessons:
* Technomagick 100: Internet Safety (Class for youth and the non-tech-savvy) Credits: 1 Level: 1 Instructor: "Dean Meighen" Class Description:
As the world of computers and the Internet grows, more and more threats
find ways to disrupt our lives. Here at Grey School, we want to help you
learn to defend yourself from these threats. Technomagick 100 will
teach you a little about the structure of computers, the history of the
Internet, and where the dangers are (and how to avoid them!)
This class is required for all year 1 Apprentices before moving on to year 2.
NEW: It is now
possible for adults to “test out” of this required class. To do so, you should sign up for the other version of this class, which is marked as reserved for Apprentices 18 and older, who are tech-savvy.
Required Materials:
Obviously
the Apprentice is going to need a computer! This does not have to be the
Apprentice's own personal computer; a shared computer or one accessed in
a public facility such as a library is suitable.
* Technomagick 100: Internet Safety (Reserved for Students 18 and older, tech-savvy version) Credits: 1 Level: 1 Instructor: "Dean Meighen" Class Description:
As the world of computers and the Internet grows, more and more threats find ways to disrupt our lives. Here at Grey School, we want to help you learn to defend yourself from these threats. Technomagick 100 will teach you a little about the structure of computers, the history of the Internet, and where the dangers are (and how to avoid them!)
This class is required for all year 1 students before moving on to year 2.
NEW: This is the “test out” version of this required class. If you are age 18 or
older and consider yourself tech-savvy, you may choose this class to request the multiple-choice exam without completing
any other classwork. Please note that the teacher will verify this age
requirement. If you cannot pass the class with at least 80%, you will have to sign up for and complete all classwork of the "Youth" version of this class. As this class is designed to allow you test-out of having to take the class, requests to reset the multiple choice test will be denied and the teacher will instruct you to take the other version of this class.
Required Materials:
Obviously
the student is going to need a computer! This does not have to be the
student's own personal computer; a shared computer or one accessed in
a public facility such as a library is suitable.
Welcome to Introduction to Alchemy! In
this class, we will introduce some of the history of Alchemy, its methods and
goals; go over a brief overview of the Alchemical process; cover many of the
different types of alchemy and alchemical work; and finally, discuss an
exercise relating to the Azoth Alchemical diagram.
Required Materials:
Grimoire for the Apprentice Wizard (Required)
Estimated Completion Time: 4-6 Weeks Prerequisites:
None.
Safety Precautions:
None.
Included Lessons:
Introduction to Alchemy (Archived) - This class is not accepting students at this time. Credits: 3 Level: 1 Instructor: "Dean Meighen" Class Description:
Currently, this course has been replaced by "Introduction to Alchemy".
This is an introduction into the origins of
alchemy, which explore the knowledge of the natural laws and their esoteric
equivalents, thus defining the alchemical sage.
So You Want to be a Red Wizard? Credits: 3 Level: 1 Instructor: "Dean Kayser" Class Description:
The practice of alchemy, physically and spiritually, possesses one of the most esoteric lineages within magickal traditions. This path is an amalgamation of science, philosophy, mysticism, and internal enlightenment focused to transmute specific conditions and substances or to gain a deeper understanding of the synchronicities of the universe in attempts to understand the true nature of our reality.
In this course, we will explore what alchemy is and what the Red Alchemist or Wizard can expect on the path forward.
Required Materials:
Grimoire for the Apprentice Wizard By Oberon Zell-Ravenheart
vGSW Orientation - This class is not accepting students at this time. Credits: 3 Level: 1 Instructor: "Dean Meighen" Class Description:
This class is designed to teach students how to navigate
and function in Second Life for participation in the vGSW virtual campus
program. It is not designed to teach students how to do everything in Second Life. Rather, successful completion of this
class will provide students with the core skills needed to successfully
participate in the program. This class also discusses campus layout and outlines
the rules that must be followed on the virtual campus.
Required Materials:
DSL or cable Internet connection, Firestorm Viewer, computer
speakers and microphone or headset, system must meet the minimum specs posted
here:
In Windows, this can be found by clicking on Start>All
programs> Accessories> system tools> system information
In Mac, Applications > Utilities > System
Information – or- open Spotlight, type system information and click on it
If you need further help determining if you can
run Second Life on your computer, contact the Instructor.
Estimated Completion Time: One week Prerequisites:
Completion of Technomagick 100 or concurrent enrollment in Technomagick 100: vGSW
Safety Precautions:
N/A
Included Lessons:
Alchemy 200: The Four Phases of Alchemy Credits: 2 Level: 2 Instructor: "Dean Meighen" Class Description:
Welcome to the Four
Phases of Alchemy! In this class, we will go over the Four Phases found in
Alchemy. We will discuss what they are and what they stand for in the practice
of Alchemy. The Four Phases are integral to the understanding of the Alchemical
process, and represent the progress made of both a substance and the soul
throughout the alchemical journey.
Required Materials:
None
Estimated Completion Time: 1 month Prerequisites:
Completion of Introduction to Alchemy (Alchemy, Level 1)
Safety Precautions:
None
Included Lessons:
Alchemy 201: The Three Philosophical Principles of Alchemy Credits: 2 Level: 2 Instructor: "Dean Meighen" Class Description:
Welcome to the Three
Philosophical Principles of Alchemy! In this class, we will go over the Three
Principles in Alchemy, introduce some of the history of Alchemy, its methods and
goals; go over a brief overview of the Alchemical process; cover many of the
different types of alchemy and alchemical work; and finally, discuss an
exercise relating to the Azoth Alchemical diagram.
Required Materials:
None
Estimated Completion Time: 1 month Prerequisites:
Completion of Introduction to Alchemy (Alchemy, Level 1)
Safety Precautions:
None
Included Lessons:
Electrical Wizard, Nikola Tesla Credits: 2 Level: 2 Instructor: "Dean Kayser" Class Description:This class is a brief look at the life and times of one of our world's greatest modern-day wizards, Nikola Tesla. Required Materials:
It would be helpful to use a computer connection fast enough to play the recommended YouTube series included toward the end of this class. But the lack of this kind of streaming speed should not stop you from taking this class, since substituted internet reading is also included as an option.
Estimated Completion Time: 4 Weeks Prerequisites:
None
Safety Precautions:
None
Included Lessons:
Introduction to Paperless Journaling - This class is not accepting students at this time. Credits: 1 Level: 2 Instructor: "Dean Meighen" Class Description:
Introduction to Paperless Journaling is a class designed to lead you through preparing a paperless journal. We will discuss pros and cons of computerized journaling as well as look at different online journaling systems. We will discuss cleansing and blessing the system. Any magickal tool is created in a way that is special to the mage creating it. A computerized journal is no exception and in this class we will see it can be as magickal as the “regular” paper journal. Have fun, make magick AND save some trees.
Required Materials:
A virus and spyware scanner.
Estimated Completion Time: 2-4 weeks Prerequisites:
None.
Safety Precautions:
None.
Included Lessons:
Phases of Alchemy Credits: 2 Level: 2 Instructor: "Dean Meighen" Class Description:
This class will look at the different processes and phases of the alchemical process. Explorations of this topic will include common correspondences, how the phases fit together in the overall process, and how they can be interpreted for both outer (laboratory) and inner (spiritual) alchemy.
Required Materials:
The Grimoire for the Apprentice Wizard, ability to view a video on YouTube.com, ability to play an internet-based computer game, some basic kitchen equipment (measuring cups/spoons, the ability to boil water on a stove), salt and an apple.
Estimated Completion Time: 4 weeks Prerequisites:
None
Safety Precautions:
Included Lessons:
Potions 200 Credits: 3 Level: 2 Instructor: "KatyRavensong" Class Description:
Does the image of a bubbling cauldron full of arcane herbal ingredients, or of bottles of mysterious potions for every purpose, stir your interest up to a simmer? If so, this class is for you!
It introduces basic terminology, concepts, safety guidelines, and best practices for the aspiring potion-master. Future classes will delve into the practical aspects of potion-making.
Required Materials:
A physical journal OR an electronic journal of the apprentice's choice
Estimated Completion Time: 1 month Prerequisites:
Safety and Herb Use (L1, 2c)
Safety Precautions:
N/A - This class is strictly theoretical.
Included Lessons:
Kitchen Chemistry - This class is not accepting students at this time. Credits: 3 Level: 3 Instructor: "Dean Meighen" Class Description:
Our kitchens are chemical laboratories. They include tools, machines for heating and cooling, tools for measuring and mixing, and all kinds of raw chemical materials—foods and beverages—including the most important molecule known to humankind: water. In this class you will use the kitchen to explore crystals, the states of matter, physical and chemical change, and non-Newtonian fluids. You’ll have a chance to stir up solutions, create colloids, and make magickal ink, crunchy sparks, and more.
Required Materials:Grimoire for the Apprentice Wizard. You will need the following materials for the required experiments: small saucepan, small skillet, spoon, pie plate, saucer or jar lid (mayonnaise jar size), 4 1-qt. jars with tight-fitting lids (e.g., canning jars, empty mayonnaise jars), short glass, tall glass, measuring cups and spoons, hot pad, magnifying glass, ice cubes, sugar, salt, baking soda, instant powdered drink mix, instant flavored gelatin mix, vegetable oil, vinegar, food coloring, and sand.
Estimated Completion Time: 1 month Prerequisites:
None
Safety Precautions:
Some of the experiments require work with a kitchen stove and boiling water. Exercise the usual cautions. Youth students should work with a supervising adult.
Included Lessons:
Dancing the Runes 401: Runic Alchemy Credits: 3 Level: 4 Instructor: "Dean Meighen" Class Description:
Several
years ago, I awoke to a whole new way of interacting with runic
energies not as merely abstract energies, but as 'collectives' of
sentient beings embodying the many different essences of what the
rune itself symbolizes. This class is the fourth in a series designed
to help you to both see the runic energies inherent in all things and
to learn to work with rune energies as 'collectives' of sentient
spirit beings. In this class you will learn to use the runic energies
in terms of spiritual or psychological alchemy.
Required Materials:
You
will need the rune set you made or purchased during the Runic
Energies class. You
will need the journal you kept for the previous class. You will need
access to one of the two books listed below. Additionally, you will
need a small tea-light holder and a supply of tea lights and the
materials to make eight new rune cards. For details regarding the
rune cards, please refer back to the Runic
Interpretations
class.
The
Sorcerer's Stone by
Dennis William Hauck
The
Emerald Tablet by
Dennis William Hauck
Estimated Completion Time: 4 to 5 months Prerequisites:
Dancing
the Runes 601: Meet the Collectives. I
strongly encourage you to take the Phases
of Alchemy
class, but it is not required. It'll give you a different perspective
on the phases of classical alchemy.
Safety Precautions:
Included Lessons:
Introduction to the Great Work Credits: 2 Level: 4 Instructor: "Dean Meighen" Class Description:
This class presents an overview of the Emerald Tablet and
the processes involved in alchemical transformation. Students will be expected to complete at least one week of journal writing and submit a 1750-2000 word essay in this class.
Required Materials:
Grimoire for the Apprentice Wizard, journal
Estimated Completion Time: 3 - 4 weeks Prerequisites: Safety Precautions: Included Lessons:
Rootskeeping 402: Digital Wonders Credits: 2 Level: 4 Instructor: "Dean Meighen" Class Description:
In this introduction to the craft of digital publishing, we look at the computer's various roles in all stages of the publication process, from simple word processors that prepare pages for a copy machine to website building and digital distribution centers. In the first half of the class, students will learn about the software, hardware and processes involved in modern publishing. In the second half, we concentrate on basic design structure and elements necessary for any publication -- the "art" of publishing that requires human creativity, regardless of how powerful your computer is. The final grade is based on a finished publication of the student's own devising, geared toward individual interests and abilities, to be crafted throughout the duration of the class.
Required Materials:
Depends on the student's project. Links to some free downloadable software tools are provided. Not Required but Highly recommended: The Elements of Graphic Design by Alexander W. White Roger C. Parker's One Minute Designer by Roger C. Parker Roger C. Parker's Guide to Web Content and Design by Roger C. Parker At the time of this writing, these books are available from Amazon for less than $15 each.
Bare minimum: The student should be familiar with word-processing software and have access to a printer. A Definite Plus: Familiarity with graphics software and the Internet will be helpful for some activities.
Safety Precautions:
None.
Included Lessons:
Photography - This class is not accepting students at this time. Credits: 3 Level: 5 Instructor: "Dean Meighen" Class Description:
In addition to ascertaining that students are familiar with their camera and, if applicable, their docking/printer station, students will learn to use the image manipulation program GIMP 2, a free-ware image manipulation program which is as good, if not better than, Photoshop, and can be downloaded by students for free at home. Students will learn about the history of photography, cultural aspects of photography, special settings of the digital camera, such as macro, landscape and sports photography settings, as well as about image composition, and common mistakes in taking photographs and how to correct or avoid them. Some of the assignments will need to be snail-mailed.
While the class is designed for digital photography, adjustments can be made to accommodate student who do not have access to a digital camera and wish to use an SLR or other 35 millimeter camera. When you sign up for the class, please send me an e-mail at ustelson@aol.com letting me know that you will be using a 35 mm camera.
Required Materials:
Access to a digital or SLR camera
Access to color printer and photo paper or a commercial printing service
Estimated Completion Time: about one moth Prerequisites:
None.
Safety Precautions:
None.
Included Lessons:
Despite the title, this class is not an art class per se, and it is not intended to help you become a better artist. I will not be grading you based on the aesthetics of the work you will be submitting here, rather, I will grade based upon what you demonstrate you have gotten out of this meditative practice in your essay assignments.
It covers the use of meditative drawing techniques based upon alchemical symbols to achieve personal transformation. We will cover an overview of some basic information about the meditative practices used in alchemy and then jump directly to work – but do not be misled about the seeming lightheartedness of doodling! Done in the proper frame of mind, even doodling can result in profound personal insights and growth!
In this class, you will be creating fifty-six small mandalas in ink using specific symbols as a starting point. You will write an essay each week about your experience working with each symbol, and submit photographs of your finished mandalas.
The final exam involves writing an essay and submitting photographs of your final piece.
Required Materials:
Digital
camera, a pencil, a black .01 Micron Pigma pigment ink pen, enough smooth art
paper to create fifty-six 3.5-inch tiles. Students will be required to complete
one alchemical meditation tile per day for a period of eight weeks.
Estimated Completion Time: Eight weeks Prerequisites:
Core Energy Practices 102
Safety Precautions:
None
Included Lessons:
Alchemical Meditation - This class is not accepting students at this time. Credits: 3 Level: 7 Instructor: "Dean Meighen" Class Description:
This class is the first of a two part course written as preparatory material designed to help the student get focused while at the same time starting him/her on a path of personal transformation. We will cover an overview of some basic information about the meditative practices used in alchemy and then jump directly to work – unpleasant work, at that; however, students’ completion of the class project should result in profound personal insights and growth, if done properly.
The class, while light on textual material, is extremely heavy on practical application, and students will be required to work hard on a single monumental mundane personal task in an alchemical manner over an extended period.
Additional assignments include writing an essay of one thousand words, and submitting before and after photographs of their work. Students wishing to complete the course within the allotted timeframe should be prepared to work at least one hour per day until project completion
Required Materials:
Digital Camera
Estimated Completion Time: 6 – 8 weeks minimum, may take some students as long as 16 weeks Prerequisites:
N/A
Safety Precautions:
N/A
Included Lessons:
ou have nearly completed your major in Alchemy and Magickal Sciences. This Practicum Lecture Class, along with the Practicum Lab Class, will be your final step toward your Major. In this class, you will explore how you can make Red Wizardry a part of your life outside of the Grey School.
Note:You must enroll in both sections at the same time: The Practicum 799a: Lecture and the Practicum 799b: Lab.
This class does not accept magister students, as it is the culmination of the course of studies of the Apprentice Program.
Required Materials:
The class materials are dependent on the area of study chosen, and should be discussed with the teacher of this class.
Estimated Completion Time: Approximately 3 months Prerequisites:
You must be at Level 7 of your studies and have completed all required classes for the Alchemy and Magickal Sciences Major before enrolling in this class.
Magister students will not be accepted into this class.
You have nearly completed your major in Alchemy and Magickal Sciences. This Practicum Lab Class, along with the Practicum Lecture Class, will be your final step toward your Major. Here, you will synthesize all of the knowledge attained while studying to be a Red Wizard, and you will prepare to embark on your Journeyman adventure. While taking the class, you will interact one-on-one with your Professor, and you will plan and execute a unique project in your chosen field of interest. Note: You must enroll in both sections at the same time: The Practicum Lecture 799a, and the Practicum Lab 799b.
This class does not accept magister students, as it is the culmination of the course of studies of the Apprentice Program.
Required Materials:
The class materials will depend on the chosen project and should be discussed with the class teacher.
Estimated Completion Time: Approximately 3 months Prerequisites:
You must be at Level 7 of your studies and have completed all required classes for the Alchemy and Magickal Sciences Major before enrolling in this class.
Magister students will not be accepted into this class.
Safety Precautions:
Safety precautions will depend on the nature of the practicum work chosen. Always be careful when working with chemicals and scientific experiments. Some of them have a tendency to go ‘boom.’
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