Is Parapsychology Finally Going Mainstream? The Rise of Academic Programs in 2026 | Prof Cal Cooper

About this episode

Prof. Cal Cooper discusses the rise of academic programs in parapsychology and its growing acceptance in mainstream education.

An enlightening interview with Prof. Cal Cooper, a leading psychologist and parapsychology expert, as he delves into the fascinating world of parapsychology education in the UK and beyond. From the origins of the Society for Psychical Research (SPR) in 1882 at Trinity College, Cambridge, to modern PhD programs and research grants, Prof. Cooper shares a comprehensive history and current landscape of studying psychic phenomena, remote viewing, survival of death, and anomalous experiences. Discover how universities like the University of Northampton (celebrating 30 years of parapsychology modules), University of Edinburgh, and others are pioneering undergraduate modules, Master's concentrations, and PhDs in parapsychology. Learn about key figures like J.B. Rhine, Robert Morris, and Alan Gauld, and explore practical applications of PSI in business, military, and more. Prof. Cooper also discusses funding opportunities, including up to £60,000 in SPR grants for survival research, and tips for aspiring students on part-time studies, online courses, and avoiding scam diplomas. Parapsychology Education Whether you're a skeptic, researcher, or enthusiast interested in #ESP, #hauntings…

People in this episode

Host: Caroline McKendrick Gibson

Guest: Prof Cal Cooper

Topics covered

• parapsychology
• education
• psychic phenomena
• remote viewing
• survival of death
• anomalous experiences

Keywords

• ESP
• hauntings
• mediumship
• consciousness studies
• psychology students
• paranormal investigators

Mentioned in this episode

Products: Audible, University of Northampton, University of Edinburgh

Books & works: Master's concentrations, PhDs

Places: UK, Cambridge

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