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Astrology University: An Introduction to Astrological Symbols

A beginner-friendly introduction to the foundational symbols of Western astrology — planets, zodiac signs, and houses — taught by Astrology University founder Tony Howard. Structured as a four-week journey through chart anatomy, with pre-recorded video lessons, weekly readings, and Q&A support. The first course in AU's four-year diploma program.

Modules: 4 Modules
Duration: 8h
Certification: non-certification course
Format: self-paced
Skill level: beginner
Career pathway: interest

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Course program

An Introduction to Astrological Symbols by Astrology University is a four-week, beginner-level course on the foundational vocabulary of Western astrology. Taught by AU founder Tony Howard, it builds a working knowledge of planets, signs, and houses — the symbols you need to read a birth chart with clarity.

This course is designed for people who are new to astrology, as well as students with scattered prior knowledge who want a structured foundation. It is also for students considering Astrology University’s four-year Professional Astrologer Diploma Program. No prior experience or credential is required.

The curriculum is organized into four weekly themes:
– Week one: planetary archetypes and how they describe core human drives
– Week two: the twelve zodiac signs as expressions of embodied experience
– Week three: the twelve houses and the choice between major house systems
– Week four: integrating symbols with practical chart reading, introduction to the ephemeris, and demonstrations of astrology software (Solar Fire, AstroGold, LUNA, Sirius)

Students also receive a free PDF of Steven Forrest’s The Inner Sky, a bonus class on using the ephemeris, and a guided meditation called The Signs as Embodied Experience. Required reading includes The Contemporary Astrologer’s Handbook by Sue Tompkins and Astrology: Using the Wisdom of the Stars in Your Everyday Life by Carole Taylor (purchased separately).

The course is taught by Tony Howard, founder and Director of Astrology University, who has been coaching clients and teaching students for more than twenty years. Tony’s approach connects symbols to lived experience, drawing on archetypal and evolutionary perspectives. His background includes a degree in history and film from the University of Colorado and writing in The Mountain Astrologer and several anthologies.

The format is self-paced. All video content is pre-recorded and available immediately on enrollment, with streaming access through your AU account. Four Q&A sessions support each week’s material, and live sessions are offered annually for cohorts that want to study together. Weekly homework and reading assignments accompany the videos, and an online discussion forum lets students ask questions and share insights as they go.

Meet your teacher

Tony Howard

Tony Howard is the Director and Faculty Astrologer at Astrology University. He focuses on historical research, chart analysis, and supporting clients through compassionate mirroring and practical tools for conscious co-creation.

Host reviews 5

Jess S.

Verified user

This is such a comprehensive and insightful course. I am having many breakthroughs and insights into my own chart and those I am close to. Definitely a missing piece of the puzzle for me.
Frances M.

Verified user

I like that the lessons were presented by different teachers with varying perspectives. The readings are excellent and a great addition to my library. The course was stimulating, but not overwhelming with technical details.
Jessica B.

Verified user

This has been a very informative class. The focus on the angles has been really illuminating. I am loving Melanie Reinhart's material and I just adore Darby Costello's perspective on just about anything! Great course work!
Monica H.

Verified user

So happy to have found this school! The instructors are incredibly knowledgeable and passionate about teaching. Quality lectures, readings, homework assignments and feedback on homework all contributed to my learning. Attending classes and Q&A's live with a group of stellar students enriched my experience. Can't wait for the next course!
Catherine M.

Verified user

Comprehensive material, excellent instruction, well-designed program format. Generous time and knowledge given to all students. Worth it!