University of Metaphysics vs University of Metaphysical Sciences: Which is Better?

Choosing the right institution for metaphysical studies can shape your spiritual journey and professional career. Two prominent names often come up in this field: the University of Metaphysics and the University of Metaphysical Sciences.

Both offer unique programs, but which one is better for you? In this comprehensive guide, we’ll compare these institutions based on accreditation, curriculum, cost, student experience, and more to help you make an informed decision.

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University of Metaphysics vs Metaphysical Sciences

Overview of the University of Metaphysics

The University of Metaphysics, based in Sedona, Arizona, has been a leader in metaphysical education since 1959. Operated by the International Metaphysical Ministry (IMM), it offers bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees in metaphysics, focusing on holistic, transpersonal, and theocentric approaches. The university emphasizes practical applications like spiritual counseling, life coaching, and ministry.

• Key Features:

  • Founded by Dr. Paul Leon Masters, a pioneer in metaphysical education.

  • Offers distance learning with flexible, self-paced programs.

  • Provides free resources like meditations and audio messages.

  • Over 18,000 graduates and 10,000 practicing IMM ministers worldwide.

The University of Metaphysics is known for its long history and global reach, with programs in 125 countries. Its motto, “Here to serve the best in you,” reflects its commitment to student success and spiritual growth.

Overview of the University of Metaphysical Sciences

The University of Metaphysical Sciences (UMS), located in Arcata, California, is a non-profit institution founded by Dr. Christine Breese in 2001. UMS offers bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees in metaphysical sciences, emphasizing personal transformation and spiritual healing. Its distance learning model allows students to study from anywhere, with courses delivered digitally or via mail.

• Key Features:

  • Curriculum written by over 40 writers, researchers, and healers.

  • Includes 60–70 guided meditations for experiential learning.

  • Accredited by the AADP and AAMA for religious degrees.

  • Offers lifetime access to updated courses and student support.

UMS prides itself on its transformative curriculum and supportive faculty, with a focus on courses like chakras, divination, and astrology. It also provides ordination through Wisdom of the Heart Church upon completing a master’s degree.

Key Comparison Factors

To determine which institution is better, let’s break down the comparison into critical factors.

1. Accreditation and Legitimacy

Accreditation is a crucial consideration, but metaphysical degrees are typically religious-based and exempt from traditional secular accreditation. Neither institution is accredited by the U.S. Department of Education, as their degrees are non-secular. However, both have private accreditations:

• University of Metaphysics: Not accredited by a U.S. Department of Education-recognized body but operates under IMM, a respected metaphysical organization. Its degrees are recognized for spiritual practices like ministry and counseling.

• University of Metaphysical Sciences: Accredited by the American Association of Drugless Practitioners (AADP) and American Association of Medical Alternatives (AAMA), prominent agencies for metaphysical schools. UMS emphasizes transparency about its religious-exempt status.

Verdict: UMS has an edge with AADP and AAMA accreditations, which provide a standard of professionalism for religious degrees. However, the University of Metaphysics’ long-standing reputation may carry more weight in certain spiritual communities.

2. Curriculum and Learning Experience

The curriculum is the heart of any metaphysical program. Both institutions offer diverse courses, but their approaches differ:

• University of Metaphysics: Focuses on practical applications, with courses in spiritual healing, life coaching, and pastoral counseling. Its curriculum is streamlined for career-oriented students and includes meditations by Dr. Paul Leon Masters. The program is designed for quick completion, appealing to busy adults.

• University of Metaphysical Sciences: Offers over 80 courses, covering topics like yoga, dreams, angels, and color therapy. UMS emphasizes experiential learning through 60–70 guided meditations and plans to add videos. Its courses are research-based, written by multiple experts, and updated annually.

Verdict: UMS offers a broader, more immersive curriculum with a focus on personal transformation, making it ideal for students seeking depth. The University of Metaphysics suits those prioritizing practical, career-focused training.

3. Cost and Affordability

Cost is a significant factor for most students. Both institutions aim to provide affordable education, but their pricing structures differ:

• University of Metaphysics: Offers a bundled program for bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees at a competitive price. Exact costs are available through their catalog, but the university emphasizes affordability compared to competitors.

• University of Metaphysical Sciences: Provides all three degrees (bachelor’s, master’s, doctorate) for a single low price, including course materials and meditations. UMS is transparent about costs, which are lower than many competitors, including the University of Metaphysics.

Verdict: UMS appears more cost-effective, offering a comprehensive package at a lower price point. However, prospective students should request catalogs from both to confirm exact costs.

4. Student Support and Community

Support from faculty and peers can enhance the learning experience:

• University of Metaphysics: Offers personalized support from a dedicated staff with over 100 years of combined experience. Students have access to free resources and post-graduate education opportunities.

• University of Metaphysical Sciences: Provides extensive faculty interaction, with feedback on exams and phone support. UMS fosters a community through its transformative journey, with students praising the caring staff and meditations.

Verdict: UMS stands out for its high level of faculty engagement and experiential components like meditations. The University of Metaphysics offers robust support but focuses more on professional preparation.

5. Reputation and Legal Considerations

Both institutions have faced scrutiny, particularly UMS, due to a dismissed lawsuit from a competitor (International Metaphysical Ministry, which operates the University of Metaphysics). The lawsuit, dismissed on May 12, 2025, alleged false advertising but was deemed frivolous. UMS maintains its innocence and has a 5.0-star rating on review platforms like Trustpilot.

• University of Metaphysics: Benefits from a longer history and global presence, with no recent legal issues reported.

• University of Metaphysical Sciences: Despite the lawsuit, UMS enjoys strong student reviews and transparency about its operations.

Verdict: The University of Metaphysics has a slight advantage due to its established reputation, but UMS’s positive student feedback mitigates concerns about past legal challenges.

Also Read: University of Metaphysical Sciences Lawsuit Update: What You Need to Know in 2025

Which is Better for You?

The choice between the University of Metaphysics and the University of Metaphysical Sciences depends on your goals:

• Choose University of Metaphysics if:

  • You value a long-established institution with a global network.

  • You want a streamlined, career-focused program for ministry or counseling.

  • You prefer a program with a historical legacy and practical applications.

• Choose University of Metaphysical Sciences if:

  • You seek a transformative, in-depth curriculum with diverse courses.

  • You value experiential learning through meditations and faculty support.

  • You prefer a more affordable, transparent pricing structure.

Both institutions offer valuable metaphysical education, but UMS may appeal to those seeking a holistic, personal journey, while the University of Metaphysics suits career-driven students.

External Resources for Further Research

To deepen your understanding of metaphysical education, explore these resources:

1. What is Metaphysics? – Stanford Encyclopedia of Philosophy – A detailed overview of metaphysics as a philosophical discipline.

2. American Association of Drugless Practitioners – Information on AADP accreditation for metaphysical schools.

3. Careers in Metaphysics – Learn.org – Insights into career paths with a metaphysics degree.

Conclusion

The University of Metaphysics and the University of Metaphysical Sciences are both reputable choices for metaphysical education, each with unique strengths. UMS excels in affordability, curriculum depth, and student support, while the University of Metaphysics offers a prestigious legacy and career-focused training. Evaluate your priorities—cost, curriculum, or reputation—and request catalogs from both to make an informed decision. Your spiritual journey deserves the right fit.