Postgraduate Certificate
Trichology and Hair Sciences
- Validated by
-
- Duration
- 6 months
- Apply by
- 6th Sep 2026
Total fees
£2,550Next intake
September 2026
Apply by
6th Sep 2026
Commitment
Part time
Format
100% online
Duration
6 months
About this programme
Trichology services are growing in demand, yet there are insufficient numbers of healthcare professionals with the knowledge base required to diagnose, manage, and treat hair and scalp conditions (Macbeth et al., 2018). Our Postgraduate Certificate in Trichology and Hair Sciences has been specifically designed to meet the growing global demand for expertise in this rapidly expanding field. Healthcare professionals will be equipped with a comprehensive understanding of the science behind hair and scalp health, as well as the causes and treatments for various trichological disorders. Our curriculum covers essential aspects of trichology and hair sciences including hair physiology, alopecia and hirsutism.
As a graduate of this trichology course, you will be provided with in-depth knowledge and skills relevant to diagnosing, treating and managing various hair and scalp disorders.
Our students benefit from learning from our renowned expert faculty, with courses designed in line with the latest research and evidence-based practices, ensuring you can apply innovative knowledge to your own practice.
This Postgraduate Certificate in Trichology and Hair Sciences is a specialised programme for healthcare professionals who have already achieved a university undergraduate qualification in a relevant medical field.
This online Trichology and Hair Sciences course supports the professional development of healthcare professionals by equipping them with specialised skills and knowledge in trichology and hair science, enabling them to provide enhanced care to their patients and advance their careers in the field.
Following the successful completion of our 6 month Postgraduate Certificate in Trichology and Hair Sciences you should:
- Critically evaluate the evidence base in trichology and hair sciences.
- Gain life-long learning and advanced problem-solving skills that they can apply to practise in trichology and hair sciences.
- Critically analyse the biological and physiological measures to assess hair and scalp disorders in the individual.
- Demonstrate a systematic knowledge of the investigation and evidence-based management in trichology in a range of settings.
Who can study this Postgraduate Certificate in Trichology and Hair Sciences?
Our PGCert in Trichology Science Course is aimed at healthcare professionals who have an interest in Trichology and Hair Sciences. Trichology services are growing in demand, yet there are insufficient numbers of healthcare professionals with the knowledge base required to diagnose, manage, and treat hair and scalp conditions (Macbeth et al., 2018).
Our anticipated audience includes:
- Medical graduates considering specialising in dermatology and related specialties.
- Medical professionals with an interest in trichology and hair sciences, including nurses, GPs, and other allied health professionals
- Primary care and private practices, clinics and aesthetic services that are clinically delivered.
What will you study on this Postgraduate Certificate in Trichology and Hair Sciences?
Our online Postgraduate Certificate in Trichology and Hair Sciences allows you to study for just six months and is a part-time, distance-learning course. The course is worth 60 credits and comprises three modules of 20 credits, each running over a period of six weeks.
Year 1
Module 1 Module 1 - Hair Physiology: Anatomy and Pathophysiology +
Module Aims:
The aim of this module is to equip students with a profound knowledge of hair physiology, enabling them to comprehend the intricate workings of hair biology. By delving into the underlying mechanisms of hair growth and maintenance, students will gain a solid foundation to further explore trichology and its applications.
Content Summary:
- Hair Structure and Follicular Biology
- Hair Growth Cycle, and Hair Disorders Classifications & Differential Diagnoses
- Hormonal Regulation of Hair Physiology (Investigations based on clinical assessment)
- Nutritional and Environmental Factors and Hair Health
- Dermoscopy in Hair and Scalp Analysis (Trichoscopy)
Learning Outcomes:
- Critically apply a systematic knowledge of the most current evidence and practice in the complex processes involved in hair physiology, employing critical thinking skills to examine the interplay between cellular mechanisms, hormonal regulation, and environmental factors.
- Critically evaluate emerging approaches to the use of dermoscopy demonstrating the ability to apply theoretical concepts to practical scenarios in trichology practice.
Module 2 Module 2 - Alopecia +
Module Aims:
The aim of this module is to enable students to develop a comprehensive understanding of alopecia, its diverse aetiology, and its impact on individuals. By studying the underlying mechanisms and exploring available treatment options, students will be equipped to critically evaluate and contribute to the field of trichology, specifically in relation to alopecia.
Content Summary:
- Types and Classifications of Alopecia
- Aetiology and Pathophysiology of Alopecia
- Diagnostic Approaches for Alopecia
- Advancement in the treatment of Alopecia
- Integrative and aesthetic approaches in Alopecia
- Surgical Interventions for Alopecia
Learning Outcomes:
- Critically apply a systematic knowledge of the most current evidence and practice in alopecia and critically evaluate emerging approaches to the treatment of the condition.
- Construct management strategies for the investigation and clinical management of presentations of alopecia to strategically enhance team performance in complex situations.
Module 3 Module 3 - Hirsutism +
Module Aims:
The aim of this module is to provide students with an in-depth understanding of hirsutism, including its underlying causes and the diagnostic challenges associated with this condition. By examining therapeutic approaches and considering the psychosocial impact of hirsutism, students will develop the knowledge and skills necessary to address this condition within the field of trichology.
Content Summary:
- Aetiology and Pathogenesis of Hirsutism
- Diagnostic Evaluation of Hirsutism (Hypertrichosis vs Hirsutism)
- Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)
- Other Important causes of Hirsutism
- Emotional and Psychological Impact
- Management of Hirsutism
Learning Outcomes:
- Critically evaluate the diagnostic approaches for hirsutism, including laboratory tests, imaging techniques, and clinical assessment, to make accurate diagnoses.
- Critically apply the knowledge and synthesise the evidence into management strategies for patients presenting with hirsutism including the psychological impact on individuals.
How will I learn?
You’ll learn through our flexible, interactive online platform: clinical cases, assignments and collaboration with fellow students at times that suit your rota. There is no fixed timetable — log in daily to take part in the week’s activities.
Groups are small, typically 10–20 students, so discussion stays close to practice. A dedicated tutor and the Student Support Team stay with you through the module.
-
100% flexible
Online, with no campus days. Study around clinic, nights and family life.
-
Case-based
Two or three clinically rich scenarios each week, discussed with peers and marked by your tutor.
-
About 10 hours a week
A little and often — daily login beats a weekly cram.
Assessment methods
The Trichology and Hair Sciences online course places assessments at the heart of the learning process through the employment of real life scenarios to enhance problem-solving, critical analysis and evidence-based practice. Since the scenarios act as a focus for learning and assessment, the two are intrinsically linked.
The three modules on the course have the same assessment format and for all modules, you will be assigned a dedicated expert tutor. Your tutor will then facilitate case discussions with the group, whilst monitoring, assessing and marking your work throughout. You will also participate in a combination of module activities that may be group and/or individual based, dependent on the module.
These innovative teaching methods enable you to envisage the translation of your studies into your every day work and practice. Due to the online nature of the course, you will be expected to regularly login and participate in the course - ideally on a daily basis. Students are recommended to spend around two hours per day on their studies. Our dedicated Student Support Team are also available to help with any problems you may face. From navigating our online platform to advising you on deadlines, our team can assist with any questions or challenges you may have along the way.
Assessments are built into the learning. Each week you work through clinical cases with your tutor; those discussions are the core of both the teaching and the marks.
Academic Forum (Case-based scenarios and discussion) - 40% +
Students are required to critically analyse clinically focused case-based scenarios, discussion threads and weekly questions posed by their tutors via the Academic Forum (an online discussion board) and designed to meet the module learning outcomes. Here, students make their own researched and referenced contributions and interact with the tutor and their fellow students. There is no didactic teaching, instead, students are posed questions and prompted to search the literature, read it critically and respond. Engagement is encouraged by the tutor prompting students to respond and the use of automated activity monitoring software.
At the end of each module, the tutor allocates marks to each student based on a marking rubric. The rubric takes into account the following elements:
· Promptness and initiative
· Delivery of post (spelling and grammar)
· The relevance of post and referencing
· Expression within the post
Reflective portfolio - 10% +
The online reflective journal is a learning portfolio that requires the students to record and critically reflect on their learning. Reflection is an important aspect of the programme as the professionals will be able to spend time considering how their practice compares to the themes being discussed in the module. The tutor provides regular feedback to the student and marks it at the end of the module.
Reflective practice is a requirement for healthcare professionals for both professional re-validation and professional development.
Module Activity (Group or Individual) - 20% +
The group activity is designed to stimulate and test the students’ ability to work as a team in taking the subject area forward. A group task is set, the group elects a leader using the online forum (designed to put leadership skills into practice) and the leader allocates tasks to group members.
The leader is responsible for managing, collating and submitting the activity (online) at the end of the module. The tutor provides formative guidance part way through the module and marks the assessment at the end.
Examples of individual activities might include either a written assignment, poster, blog or social media project.
All students must complete the same assignment for each module that is predetermined by the programme Leader before the modules commence. Students are not provided with an option to choose.
Case-based multiple-choice exam - 30% +
Case problems in the form of a one-hour timed examination with multiple-choice ‘single best answer’ questions directly test the reasoning and knowledge objectives of the module. The online examination is marked automatically.
Entry requirements
Since our courses are conducted entirely online, they are accessible to both UK and international registered healthcare professionals.
Applicants will typically hold a first degree or equivalent (including international qualifications) in a relevant professional healthcare field, such as a medical or nursing degree.
Registered healthcare professionals without these recognised qualifications will be considered on an individual basis and a wide range of prior experience may be taken into account. In some cases, applicants may be asked to submit a piece of work for assessment in order to confirm that they are able to work comfortably at postgraduate level, and demonstrate the requisite clinical and professional knowledge.
Documents required
- A copy of your updated CV including your address and date of birth.
- A copy of your undergraduate degree certificate.
- The name and email address of someone who is able to provide a reference. This can be a work colleague, employer or former tutor.
- A detailed personal statement explaining why you would like to undertake the course.
- A copy of your proof of English competency (see below).
English language requirements
Proficiency in the English language is essential to completing our courses. If English is not your first language, we ask for proof of competency during the application process. We are able to accept an IELTS overall score of 6.0 (with a minimum of 5.5 for each band) or an equivalent qualification.
If you do not meet these requirements, please don’t worry. The University of South Wales run a number of English language programmes to prepare you for your academic studies. You can also contact our admissions team on admissions@learna.ac.uk for more information on the qualifications we accept.
Faculty
Programme Director
Dr. Pratisha Dash
Tutor
Marta Teixeira BN (Hons), RN (Adult), IAT, PGCert, MSc
Tutor
Dr. Lokesh Handa
1 / 3
Validated by
University of South Wales
The University of South Wales (USW) is a modern, industry focused University located in Cardiff, Newport and Pontypridd in South Wales, UK. It was rated best in the UK for the Health Professions in the Guardian University Guide 2020 and, in the latest Complete University Guide 2022, is in the top 10 in the UK for Health Studies. USW is one of Britain’s largest and most exciting new universities attracting a cosmopolitan mix of students from across the globe.
Dates
Dates for Postgraduate Certificate / Postgraduate Diploma / MSc Year 1 September 2026 Intake
| Module | Start | End |
|---|---|---|
| Induction Week | 7th September 2026 | 11th September 2026 |
| Module 1 | 14th September 2026 | 25th October 2026 |
| Module 2 | 9th November 2026 | 20th December 2026 |
| Module 3 | 11th January 2027 | 21st February 2027 |
| Module 4 | 8th March 2027 | 18th April 2027 |
| Module 5 | 3rd May 2027 | 13th June 2027 |
| Module 6 | 28th June 2027 | 8th August 2027 |
Course fees and payment options
Course fees
- Deposit for September 2026
- £425
- Total course fees (UK & international)
- £2,550
Payment options
- Option 1: Upfront payment in full (discount available).
- Option 2: Interest-free monthly payments throughout the course.
Spread the cost with Lendwise, who offer financing options for up to 8 years.
Payment plan breakdown
| Instalment | Amount |
|---|---|
| Deposit | £425 |
| 1st May 2026 | £425 |
| 1st June 2026 | £425 |
| 1st July 2026 | £425 |
| 1st August 2026 | £425 |
| 1st September 2026 | £425 |
Deposits are non-refundable. Prices are subject to review following each intake. Lendwise finance is subject to eligibility.
Frequently asked questions
Are the courses recognised outside of the UK? +
As each Medical Council has their own rules/regulations with regard to Postgraduate study we recommend that you contact your local Medical Council with regard to recognition.
Upon completion of the course the University would invite you to a graduation ceremony and provide your certificate which makes no reference to the fact that the course was studied online and is therefore typically recognised the same as any other UK University qualification.
Rest assured, the overall Postgraduate Diploma carries a total of 1,200 CPD points, with the MSc an additional 600 CPD points, and all official certifications are issued directly by the University.
How do online courses work? +
When you study one of our programmes you may be surprised to find that there are no lectures or seminars. Your learning will be self-directed meaning that rather than being told information you find it for yourself (with tutor guidance and support). We do this via a series of clinically rich scenarios which your tutor will post on our academic forum which you and your classmates will research, respond to and discuss.
You will be assessed through the Academic Forum, Reflective Journal and Assignments. Learning will be carried out using our online learning platform: Moodle.
You can study whenever and wherever you want - our programmes are totally flexible to fit around your other work and life commitments.
How much time will I need to spend on the course each week? +
The course is specifically designed so that part of your study is the application of theory to practice in your day job.
We typically suggest that students aim to log into the Moodle platform daily. We recommend a "little and often" approach for reading, reflection and/or posting. High achieving students will typically spend 1-2 hours dedicated to their studies a day; 10 hours per week is sufficient time to spend on the platform.
Those who cannot dedicate more time than once/twice per week may struggle with the demands of this postgraduate programme.
Is the course completely online? +
Yes, everything is done entirely online through our learning platform, Moodle. You do not need to attend the University.
My international degree was taught in English - do I still need to take an English test to prove my English proficiency? +
All of our courses are delivered in English, so proficiency in the English language is essential for success. If English is not your first language, we require proof of competency as part of your application. We accept the following as proof of English Language skills:
We Accept a Range of English Language Qualifications
While IELTS and TOEFL are among the most commonly used English tests, we understand that students come from diverse backgrounds — and we’re happy to work with you to accept a wide range of other recognised English language qualifications.
We accept IELTS (International English Language Testing System)
Our most commonly accepted test, IELTS is globally recognised and widely used for university admissions.
We accept TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language)
Another widely accepted test, TOEFL assesses your reading, writing, listening, and speaking skills in an academic setting.
We accept English Medium of Instruction (EMI) Letters
Many of our international students provide an EMI (English Medium Instruction) letter from their previous institution. This letter should confirm that you were taught in the medium of English. It is a popular and widely accepted form of proof, especially if you have completed prior academic studies in English.
Our University partners Requirements
The University of South Wales accepts an overall score of 6.0 (minimum of 5.5 for each band) and The University of Buckingham accepts an overall score of 6.5 (minimum of 6.0 for each band).
Do you offer any payment plans or funding support? +
Our Flexible Instalment Plan is designed to offer ultimate flexibility to pay for your programme. You have the choice of two payment options:
Make an Upfront Payment in Full: For those who prefer to settle their fees upfront, you can pay the full amount at the beginning of your programme.
Interest-Free Payments: Alternatively, you can choose to spread your payments out with interest-free instalments every month for the duration of your course.
These options are separate from our existing lending partners, which you can explore further on our programme pages. We believe that education should be accessible to all, and our Flexible Instalment Plan is just one of the ways we are committed to supporting you in your academic journey.
What discounts are available, and how much can I save? +
We currently offer two discounts: the Early Bird Discount and the Action Taker Discount. The Early Bird discount allows you to save up to £500 or more, available only to self-funders and is a limited-time offer that runs for the entirety of November for the March cohort or the entirety of May for the September cohort. Our Action Taker Discount allows you to save up to £150 off for PGCert and £250 off for PGDip/2-year MSc programmes. To qualify for Action Takers, you must pay the deposit within 7 days of acceptance.
For Early Bird Discounts, the discount is visible if your application and acceptance are completed within the required timeframe. For Action Taker Discounts, it will reflect once conditions are met.