It has been said that scientists during ancient times and right through to the Renaissance were scientists for the love of it. Luminaries such as Tycho Brahe, Johannes Kepler and many others were astrologers by profession and scientists for the pleasure it gave them. As late as the 17th century, Newton, who was known to be secretive by nature, is said to have told the astronomer Edmond Halley, about astrology, “Sir Halley, I have studied the matter, you have not”. It was only between the 17th and 19th century that astrology and astronomy diverged courses. Many attribute it to the industrial revolution.

However, there are still some institutions, including the University of Wales that offer combined courses in Astronomy and Astrology. The Canadian Association of Astrological Education is focused on Astrology.