Expanded Information
The word "metaphysics" comes to us from Ancient Greece – meta, meaning higher – beyond earth physics or invisible physics. In the standard dictionary definition metaphysics is referred to as a branch of philosophy that deals with First Cause and the Nature of Being. Students studying this advanced knowledge of evolution should not accept its teachings unless a "compatible feeling" accompanies it. Metaphysics is not meant to be studied solely as an intellectual pursuit. A student of metaphysics does not attempt to solve all questions materially. They are taught to accept that which happens obviously, even when no scientific explanation can account for it. It is taught as a branch of philosophy in many academic colleges and universities today as "Speculative Philosophy."

Metaphysics is synonymous with the Greek word Pantheism (pan meaning all). Pantheism is the doctrine that God(dess) is all, the sum total of everything that exists; all things, animate and inanimate, including the earth and humans are manifestations of God(dess); suffering, evil, and change are aspects of God(dess) as much as the ultimate good in everything.

Today, the word "metaphysics" has become a description of many fields of interest such as: philosophy, religion, spirituality, parapsychology, mysticism, yoga, ESP, dreams, Jungian psychology, astrology, meditation, self-help studies, positive thinking, holistic healing, life after death, reincarnation, etc.

The common denominator of these and other comparable subjects deals with an exploration of Reality, and how this knowledge may benefit humanity, both individually and collectively. This is why most professional metaphysical practitioners regard metaphysics as a spiritual philosophy of life. They use this spiritual philosophy in whatever system or teaching of metaphysics they are engaged in.

Metaphysical practitioners throughout the world are engaged in different things, all under the general label of metaphysics. This encompasses a wide range, such as yogis, mystics, psychics, astrologers, channels, spirit mediums, positive thinking teachers, meditation teachers, spiritual ministers, spiritual and pastoral counselors, spiritual and holistic healers, self-help teachers, etc. The range is wide, but, again, the common denominator is the search for truth, purpose and meaning in life. CMS views all of these fields as part of Metaphysics, in regard to our Degree and other educational and certification programs.

Source: http://www.cms.edu/career.html