Master Objectivism.

Serious, intellectually ambitious students who want to gain a deep and integrated understanding of Objectivism. ARU is especially suited to young people who are considering an intellectual career or who want to bring Objectivist clarity to another demanding profession.

In addition to demonstrating intellectual ability, seriousness, curiosity, and a willingness to do demanding work, applicants should have read (at minimum) Atlas Shrugged, The Fountainhead, and some of Ayn Rand’s nonfiction. A great way to prepare is by completing Ayn Rand Essentials, a free self-study course from ARI that guides you through Ayn Rand’s key ideas and works across all the branches of philosophy. You can find it in the ARI Library here.

Online course access for the Objectivism Intensive—including a list of any readings and homework due before the first live session—opens October 9, 2026. Live sessions begin October 16 and run on Tuesdays and Fridays from 8–10 a.m. PT (live attendance is recommended but not required). Philosophical Skills courses will be announced later this summer. Note that dates and times may change.

ARU courses feature weekly readings, assignments, and a live class taught by an expert instructor. All classes are held live via videoconference, so you can take part from anywhere. Some courses use a “flipped classroom” format, with a recorded lecture followed by a live class focused on discussion and student engagement. Expect to spend approximately 10 hours per week on readings, assignments, and seminar participation.

Live attendance is strongly recommended, but not required. Recordings of live classes are available within an hour or two of their conclusion. Students unable to attend live can contribute to the class via discussion forums and office hours.

All students start their ARU studies with our Objectivism Intensives: three 8-week courses led by ARI’s chief philosophy officer, Onkar Ghate, a renowned expert in Ayn Rand’s ideas. Students who complete these seminars are eligible for a range of additional courses intended to help deepen their understanding of Objectivism and Ayn Rand’s place in the history of philosophy, strengthen their philosophical thinking and communication skills, and showcase the application of Objectivism to important disciplines such as literature, law, and science.

The Intellectual Incubator is ARI’s initiative for investing in early-career intellectuals committed to relentless growth and to impacting their fields. Participants learn from leading experts in Objectivism to gain a deep, professional understanding of Rand’s philosophy and its application to their field, master the skills essential for impactful communication as a scholar, and connect with a vibrant intellectual network of advisors and mentors. Taking ARU courses is an essential step toward being considered for the Incubator. Learn more here.

There is no cost for admitted students beyond a one-time admission fee of $100. Students who have difficulty paying this fee should contact us at [email protected]. ARU also accommodates auditors on a course-by-course basis. See details and register to audit here.

Catalyst Scholarships of up to $500 per month are awarded to top students each year. New student awards are based on the strength of admission applications, and returning student awards are based on GPA and faculty recommendations. Catalyst Scholarships are awarded at the outset of the year. The number of Catalyst Scholarships awarded each year is variable based on available funding.

Yes, auditors may bypass the application and join for $500 per course here. Auditors are welcome to do assigned work but should not expect that it will be reviewed or graded by ARU faculty.

No. While ARU courses are taught at a college level by educators holding advanced degrees, they are not licensed, not accredited, and will not be recognized by accredited institutions. ARU courses are for avocational and professional development purposes.