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Postgraduate study
Psychology

Trauma Informed Practice (Online)* PgCert

This course is an ideal starting point if you want to develop a foundational understanding of trauma and its impact. You are introduced to key principles and practical strategies for creating safe and supportive environments.

 

Full-time

100% online

 
  • Choose the winner - University of the Year (Times Higer Education 2025)
  • Apply now to start in January or September. Apply now
 

Course overview

The impact of trauma on physical and mental health affects us all, directly or indirectly. You gain a comprehensive understanding of this topic which can be applied in practice to a variety of workplaces and settings making you a confident, critical, creative, adaptable, articulate and aspiring professional.

The course takes a strengths-based approach that is grounded in an understanding of and responsiveness to the impact of trauma. This emphasises the physical, psychological and emotional safety for everyone, creating opportunities for survivors to rebuild a sense of control and empowerment.

Content includes early childhood development and how this is impacted by adversity and trauma, ways in which we can mitigate this, and opportunities to apply this knowledge through topical and relevant practice-focused assessments.

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* Subject to University approval

 

Course details

Course structure

Core modules

Understanding Childhood Trauma

You consider how adverse childhood experiences impact children and young people’s physical and mental health, educational outcomes and life chances. You explore typical and atypical child development and examine the impact of trauma on children and young people's social and emotional development and behaviour, with a focus on relational and developmental trauma.

Working with Traumatised Children

You consider what steps need to be taken to help children and young people cope with adverse childhood experiences, manage their emotions and behaviours, improve their physical and mental health and well-being, develop resilience and other strategies to thrive.

 

Modules offered may vary.

 

How you learn

You learn through asynchronous lectures, then actively explore these concepts in live workshops and seminars. Independent study forms an essential part of the course, with support to investigate areas that interest you. You also collaborate with others through the virtual learning environment, which provides extra resources, guidance and spaces for discussion.

How you are assessed

You are assessed through online written assessments.

Detailed information about assessments will be provided at the beginning of each module.

 

Entry requirements

A 2.2 degree and experience of working with children, young people or adults.

If you can demonstrate suitable significant experience and/or further study, you may be considered for the programme and asked to attend an informal interview. A written record of the interview will be kept to provide evidence of recommendations.


For general information please see our overview of entry requirements

 

Employability

Career opportunities

This course is designed for educators, health and social care workers, youth practitioners and those who seek to integrate trauma-sensitive practices into their work.

Completing this certificate can enhance your current role and serve as a stepping stone to the postgraduate diploma or master’s opening pathways to specialist and leadership positions.

 

Learning platform

Our virtual learning environment (VLE) is the platform you use to access your online course

 

Teesside University online learning courses are delivered through the Brightspace Learning Environment.

Here are some of the benefits.

  • You can use it on your smartphone, tablet and computer.
  • And you can use it anytime, so that you can plan your learning to fit your own schedule.
  • It's easy to use and navigate.
  • Modules are set out by topics and themes. You can use the progress bar to understand where you are in your modules, and appreciate your achievements.
  • We support you to become familiar with your VLE, helping you to start learning quickly.
  • You get feedback, help and guidance from tutors throughout your course through the VLE, and you can ask questions at any time.
  • Our tutors use a live activity feed to keep you updated about your course.
  • You can create a student profile, collaborate with other students and take part in online discussion forums.

Software requirements

 
 

Online learning

Online learning allows you to get a university-level qualification from the comfort of your own home or workplace. You'll have access to all of the world-class teaching and support that Teesside University has to offer, but all of your lectures, tutorials and assessments will take place online.

Find out more

Modern University of the Year

Teesside University was named Modern University of the Year in the Daily Mail University Guide 2026.

Full-time

2025-26 entry

Fee for all applicants

£2,820 in total, £940 for each 20 credits

More about our fees

  • Length: 2 semesters
  • Attendance: 100% online
  • Start date: January or September
  • Semester dates

Apply now (full-time)

Apply now (full-time)

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Part-time

  • Not available part-time
 

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Get in touch

Contact us

Email: ssshladmissions@tees.ac.uk

Telephone: 01642 738801


Online chat (general enquiries)

 

Open days and events

Sat

10

Jan

Postgraduate open day

9.00am - 3.00pm

On campus


Book now

Sat

20

Jun

Postgraduate open day

9.00am - 3.00pm

On campus


Book now

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