The sources of A Class in Miracles could be followed back again to the relationship between two individuals, Helen Schucman and Bill Thetford, both of whom were prominent psychologists and researchers. The course's inception occurred in the early 1960s when Schucman, who had been a clinical and study psychologist at Columbia University's School of Physicians and Surgeons, started to see a series of inner dictations. She identified these dictations as originating from an inner voice that identified itself as Jesus Christ. Schucman initially resisted these activities, but with Thetford's support, she began transcribing the messages she received.

Over a period of eight decades, Schucman transcribed what might become A Course in Miracles, amounting to three volumes: the Text, the Book for Students, and the Information for Teachers. The Text sits out the theoretical basis of the course, elaborating on the key  christian mysticism and principles. The Workbook for Pupils includes 365 classes, one for every day of the year, made to steer the reader through a daily practice of applying the course's teachings. The Guide for Teachers gives further guidance on the best way to realize and train the principles of A Class in Miracles to others.

Among the central themes of A Program in Miracles is the idea of forgiveness. The program teaches that true forgiveness is the main element to internal peace and awakening to one's heavenly nature. In accordance with its teachings, forgiveness isn't simply a moral or ethical training but a simple change in perception. It involves letting get of judgments, issues, and the perception of crime, and alternatively, viewing the planet and oneself through the contact of love and acceptance. A Course in Wonders stresses that correct forgiveness leads to the acceptance that individuals are typical interconnected and that separation from one another is definitely an illusion.

Yet another significant part of A Program in Miracles is their metaphysical foundation. The class gift ideas a dualistic view of truth, distinguishing between the pride, which represents divorce, fear, and illusions, and the Holy Spirit, which symbolizes love, truth, and religious guidance. It shows that the ego is the foundation of putting up with and struggle, as the Holy Heart provides a pathway to healing and awakening. The target of the course is to help individuals surpass the ego's limited perception and arrange with the Holy Spirit's guidance.