The Foundation Studies focuses on the study of the written work of Rudolf Steiner, and is complemented by intensive artistic work and an introduction to contemplative inquiry. Grounded in the path of inner development, the goal of these courses is to awaken each participant to an awareness of the spiritual basis of oiur own humanity and its relationship to the being of nature that surrounds us. Such knowledge can guide us to positive actions within our own lives and can help us to both seek and find truly creative solutions to the pressing issues that face us. It is held on Saturday mornings from 8:30 am to 1:30 pm over a period of two years.

The first year at the Alkion Center is taught in three six week blocks on Saturdays over the course of the school year and an additional week in the summer, typically the last week in June (see Summer Intensive). The tuition for the first year is $1800.00. The course includes:

• Meditative study of Rudolf Steiner's The Calendar of the Soul
• Learning to Breathe with the Senses
• Theosophy by Rudolf Steiner - A Look into the Nature of Being Human: Biography, Destiny and Evolution
• Eurythmy, Painting and Sculpture
• The History of Consciousness through Music
• Biography Seminars

The second year at the Alkion Center is taught on 27 Saturdays over the course of the school year, typically following the Hawthorne Valley School calendar. The tuition is $2,200.00. The course includes:

• The Six Basic Exercises - Meditation and Self Development
• Esoteric Science by Rudolf Steiner
• Thinking as an Intuitive Path by Rudolf Steiner - a philosophy of freedom
• Eurythmy, Painting, Sculpture, Music
• History of Consciousness through the Visual Arts
• The Practical Application of Spiritual Science - Guest Speakers in Biodynamic Agriculture, Waldorf Education, Economics, Medicine, Phenomenological Science and the Therapeutic Arts

Everybody receives a certificate after completing the Foundation Studies. Participants may continue their studies by enrolling in the Waldorf Education Program at the Alkion Center, or they can continue their education at another institution.