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Astrology University: Retrograde Planets Course

Course program

The Retrograde Planets Course at Astrology University is a self-paced program that explores how to read retrograde planets in the birth chart and as transits. Co-taught by Tony Howard and Dr. Safron Rossi, the course pairs technical chart interpretation with mythic and archetypal meaning, focused on Mercury, Venus, and Mars.

Intermediate astrology students with at least a year of study and a working grasp of planets, signs, and houses.

– Dane Rudhyar’s phase relationship model for understanding retrograde planets as part of a complete planetary cycle
– Theory, technique, and chart application of retrograde signatures
– Mythic and archetypal meanings of Mercury, Venus, and Mars when retrograde
– Natal retrograde interpretation
– Meaning of retrograde transits
– Practical skills for reading retrogrades alongside other chart factors
– Required and supplemental readings: Erin Sullivan’s “Retrograde Planets” and “Astrological Aspects: A Process-Oriented Approach” by Leyla Rael and Dane Rudhyar

Tony Howard is the Director and Faculty Astrologer at Astrology University, where he leads the Professional Astrologer Diploma Program. His work focuses on chart analysis, historical research, and supporting clients through compassionate mirroring. Dr. Safron Rossi is Associate Core Faculty at Pacifica Graduate Institute in the Jungian and Archetypal Studies MA/PhD program and a consulting astrologer. She is editor of Joseph Campbell’s Goddesses and co-editor of Jung on Astrology.

The format is fully self-paced with instant access. The program is built around six-plus hours of recorded video lessons, four recorded Q&A sessions, weekly reading assignments, and homework. Video, audio, and handouts are all downloadable. Students can choose between an audit option and a certification-track option; the certification track adds personal feedback on homework and an exam review by teaching assistants and instructors.

Students on the certification track receive a certificate of completion and can apply the course as credit toward the four-year Professional Astrologer Diploma Program at Astrology University. Audit students receive the same study materials but without personalized feedback or credit.

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.

Read more about Tony
Tony Howard

Host reviews 5

  • Jess S.

    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.

    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.

    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.

    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.

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

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