Positive Psychology is one of the fastest growing and most exciting disciplines within Psychology today.

Its approaches have now been widely adopted by the NHS and favoured as an approach by the CQC and the Care Act (see here). The applications go beyond mental illness towards mental flourishing within business, life, education, health, and relationships.

Positive Psychology transcends the emphasis on mental illness and puts the focus on optimal wellbeing and flourishing. It is one of the most holistic scientific approaches to physical, mental, and spiritual wellbeing. Its research includes mastery of fear, courage, resilience, authenticity, hope, and much more.

New research continues to evolve in the inter-disciplinary fields of Positive Education, Positive Health, Positive Neuroscience, and Positive Sport. As an applied science, it has much value to offer to individuals, as well as to families, communities, schools, workplaces, and even national governance.

Take your Positive Psychology Practice to a new level with a diploma in applied research!

As a graduate from our Level 7 Diploma in Applied Positive Psychology Research,  you will understand how Positive Psychology Practitioners can play an important role in driving evidence-based practice and guidelines for best/good practice.

PPG has a strong relationship with Bucks New University which was formed when our founder completed the MAPP programme. Dr Reece Coker, the PPG President, is a strong advocate for this programme, and we feel that the Level 7 Diploma will prepare you to engage in a Masters of Applied Positive Psychology (MAPP) MSc degree course. Should you wish to progress to a MAPP following certification, PPG will provide an academic reference on your behalf. Acceptance will be subject to the usual University checks.

1. Course Overview

Successful completion of this course will certify you as a Positive Psychology Research Practitioner.

Research is a specialised field of Positive Psychology Practice (for further details, please see: PPG Professional Guidelines 2024).

The diploma is designed for individuals working in professional roles where an understanding of Positive Psychology research and how to conduct and evaluate it is of interest. For example, counselling and psychotherapy, teaching and training, or coaching and management.

The course begins with the study of Positive Psychology Fundamentals (Module 1). You will then study research methods, ethics, and values (Module 2) before undertaking an independent research project on a topic related to Applied Positive Psychology (Module 3). Your inspiration for this project will have emerged from professional practice and insight, and align with supervision areas available.

During your course, you will engage in individual tutoring and supervision, and group supervision processes. You will be encouraged to publish your research insights (e.g. white papers, journal articles) through the Positive Psychology Centre.

For further details on the course content, please read on or contact us at: training@ppnetwork.org

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Researcher Profiles

This course is designed for independent learners who are comfortable with self-directed learning and research with supervision.

The course attracts professionals with a strong interest in Positive Psychology. Some are Certified Positive Psychology Practitioners while others work in related professions such as teaching, training, counselling, psychotherapy, management, or consulting where a strengths-based approach is used.

The common thread is a desire to develop research skills and insights that may support professional practice and generate evidence-based Positive Psychology Interventions / Practices, with an emphasis on qualitative research methods (e.g. interviews, focus group discussions).

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Course Supervisors

This course is facilitated by Certified Positive Psychology Practitioners.

Our Principal Supervisors and Co-Supervisors hold PhDs or are engaged in PhD research studies, or are qualified to Masters degree level research in one or more areas of Positive Psychology.

They also play a role developing the Positive Psychology Centre, which aims to further research, theory, and practice on topics related to Positive Education, Positive Organisations, and Positive Health through publications and CPD training events.

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Course Delivery & Timeline

This course is delivered online by the Positive Psychology Academy.

The Academy is a virtual learning environment where you will access your course materials and engage in a virtual research group facilitated by your supervisors.

The course begins with independent learning materials (recorded webinars and assignments). There are also 1:1 tutor calls (Module 1) to support the initial learning process. This is followed by 1:1 research supervision and group supervision calls (Modules 2 and 3). All calls take place online via Zoom.

The recommended pace is 6-12 months for Module 1 followed by 1-3 months for Module 2 and 6-9 months for Module 3.

The course completion timeline is up to 2 years from the date of enrolment.

Entry Criteria

This is a level 7-ranked certification (non-regulated qualification).

Level 7 is equivalent in complexity of learning to a Masters degree in the UK.

To apply, you should hold one of the following:

• Bachelors degree (or equivalent) in a topic related to Positive Psychology (e.g. Psychology, Philosophy, Sociology, Social Sciences, Theology).
• Professional experience of working with people / clients in a support or advisory role (e.g. coaching, counselling, teaching, training, management, consulting).

Applications are limited to interest in the following research and practice areas:

• Positive Psychology Interventions / Practices for Health & Wellbeing
• Positive Psychology Interventions / Practices for Autism & Neurodiversity
• Positive Psychology Interventions / Practices for Communities & Organisations
• Positive Psychology Interventions / Practices for Movement, Exercise & Sport

All applicants are interviewed via Zoom as part of the application process.

For more information or to apply, please contact us at: training@ppnetwork.org

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Accelerated Routes

Are you a PPG Certified Positive Psychology Practitioner (Level 5) or a Certified Positive Psychology Practitioner via an equivalent route (Level 5+)?

If your certification meets or exceeds our Level 5 standards, you may apply for an accelerated route on this course where you go directly to Module 2 learning. For further details, please read on.

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Online Application Form

CLICK HERE TO APPLY TO THIS COURSE

We recommend applying at least 3 weeks prior to your desired enrolment date to allow time to process your application.

To enquire about your application, please contact: training@ppnetwork.org

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2. Course Outline

Level 7 Diploma Applied Positive Psychology Research

This course is delivered in 3 parts. Module 1 introduces you to Positive Psychology Fundamentals. Module 2 introduces you to a variety of research methods alongside ethics and values. Module 3 is where you develop and conduct your independent research study project.

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Module 1 – Positive Psychology Fundamentals (~6 months)

In this Module, you will study the Psychology of Strengths, Authenticity, Resilience, Positive Emotions, and Motivation.

You will also explore broader concepts in Psychology, Philosophy, Sociology, Theology, and Spirituality (PPG Matrix, 2025) that are relevant to understanding the research, theory, and practice of Positive Psychology and its inter-disciplinary links.

You will be expected to study independently with 1:1 tutor guidance from an assigned supervisor who will guide you on directing the module assignments towards your chosen area of research.

You will study and explore:

• Character Strengths & Virtues
• Authenticity, Self & Identity
• Resilience, Wellbeing & Positive Growth
• Positive & Negative Emotions
• Motivation, Needs & Goals

For more details on this module content and its assessment, please view: PPQS-01 L5 PPF Certificate Course Specification (Module 1)

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Module 2 – Research Methods, Ethics & Values (~3 months)

Module 2 covers research methods, ethics, and values.

This module is based on independent learning. You will be introduced to various research methods and approaches through online guided learning materials (e.g. recorded webinars and guided reflective practice). Some of these may be familiar to you while others may be new.

The module is designed to spark ideas for how you will formulate your research question and proposal which is submitted at the end of this module. You will discuss what you are learning with peers during group supervision and may reach out to your supervisor if you have any questions.

At the end of his module, you will submit a research project proposal and literature review. This is a criteria for progression to Module 3.

You will study:

• Research Ethics & Values
• Quantitative Research Methods
• Qualitative Research Methods
• Mental Health & Wellbeing in Research
• Diversity, Neurodiversity & Inclusion in Research
• Research Proposal & Literature Review

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Module 3 – Independent Research Project (~6-9 months)

Module 3 focuses on data collection, analysis, reporting and presentation.

This part of your course is about implementing your independent research study with supervision. You will conduct, evaluate, and report monthly on your research study with regular supervision sessions (e.g. monthly, bi-monthly). This process will be informed by your research design.

This module includes publication of your initial research ideas or findings through a white paper published by the Positive Psychology Centre.

On conclusion of your research study, you will present your findings through an academic poster presentation (30-40 mins, via Zoom) and an academic dissertation (10,000 words).

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3. Certification

This course is internally accredited by the Positive Psychology Guild (PPG) as continuing professional development (CPD).

On successful completion of all three modules, you will receive the following certificate: Level 5 Diploma Applied Positive Psychology (500hrs). You may refer to yourself as a PPG Certified Positive Psychology Practitioner (Researcher) or PPG Certified Positive Psychology Research Practitioner.

PPG is a Not for Profit Organisation and a government registered learning provider with a UK Provider Reference Number: 10067939. It provides Professional Membership to Certified Positive Psychology Practitioners and Strengths-Based Practitioners using a Positive Psychology-informed approach.

For more details on the organisation, please click here.

For more details on professional membership, please click here.

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Course Endorsement

This course and/or training programme has been endorsed by the Quality Licence Scheme for its high-quality, non-regulated provision and training programmes. This course and/or training programme is not regulated by Ofqual and is not an accredited qualification. Your training provider will be able to advise you on any further recognition, for example progression routes into further and/or higher education. For further information please visit the Learner FAQs on the Quality Licence Scheme website.

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4. Next Steps

Applications for this course are accepted throughout the year.

Please allow an estimated 3 months for the processing of your application.

Once an application is received, it is reviewed. If the entry criteria is met, an interview date is scheduled to discuss the applicant’s research interests prior to course acceptance. If a course offer is made, a start date is agreed on and a personal study and research schedule is provided.

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Application Form

CLICK HERE TO APPLY FOR THIS COURSE

Please note that if your application is accepted, you will be invited to attend a Zoom interview to discuss your motivation to engage in research and address any questions you might have.

For further information, please contact: training@ppnetwork.org

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Course Fees

The course fee is £2,450.

This includes:

• Access to the Positive Psychology Academy (this includes a researcher group)
• Access to online learning materials (e.g. recorded webinars, lessons, reflective practice guidance)
• Individual and group supervision (Zoom calls), tutor feedback (email), and assessments
• Enrichment learning materials (e.g. CPD Positive Health / Organisations / Education)
• Certification on successful completion of the course (electronic and print)

Payment options include:

• Single payment during enrolment with a £100 discount on the course fee (£2,350)
• PPG Payment Plan 1 – deposit (£850) and 16 monthly payments (£100 x 16)
• PPG Payment Plan 2 – deposit (£850) and 8 monthly payments (£200 x 8)

Corporate payment option (employees):

• Single payment with a £100 discount (£2,350)

Payment Methods:

• Bank transfer for full payments and deposits (UK & Overseas)
• Direct debit for monthly instalments (UK only)
• Online card payments (UK & Overseas)

Course fees and deposits are due on receipt of invoice and prior to enrolment unless otherwise agreed. Please note there are no course refunds.

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Accelerated Route 5 (PPG Level 5 Certificate / Diploma Positive Psychology Fundamentals)

If you hold a PPG Level 5 Certificate or Diploma in Positive Psychology Fundamentals, you may apply for an accelerated version of this course.

You will skip Module 1 and go directly to Module 2.

The fee for this option is £1,650 (September 2024+ fees).

Payment plans are available on request.

Entry Criteria

• PPG Level 5 Certificate / Diploma Positive Psychology Fundamentals

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the Positive Psychology Guild?

The Positive Psychology Guild is a Not for Profit Organisation (Company Number: 11015084) and a government registered learning provider (UK Provider Reference Number: 10067939). It is also a Quality License Scheme Training Provider (Provider Number: 01390). It trains, certifies, and insures Positive Psychology Practitioners and Strengths-Based Practitioners using Positive Psychology-informed approaches, and accredits Positive Psychology courses. For further information, please click here.

2. How many hours of research a week should I expect?

We estimate 5-7 hours a week (this includes supervision calls) with additional hours during assignment phases. Please keep in mind there are 500 course hours over a 2-year period.

3. What is the total completion time for this course?

The total completion time is set at 500 hours. This includes independent learning using the online course materials provided, a significant amount of independent research in the researcher’s chosen area/s of interest (this will form the majority of your hours), attendance of individual and group supervision calls, and development of course assignments.

4. Which certification will I receive?

You will receive a PPG-accredited Level 7 Diploma Applied Positive Psychology Research. You will also receive a certificate from the Quality License Scheme, which endorses this course.

5. Do graduates go on to practice professionally after this degree?

Graduates of this course typically integrate their research experience into an existing Positive Psychology Practice and/or Strengths-Based Practice using Positive Psychology-informed approaches. They are usually aiming to strengthen their research skills and evidence base for practice. Some may also wish to apply for a university research degree and using this course as preparation.

6. Will this course teach me how to diagnose clinical conditions or facilitate therapeutic processes?

No. The scope of this course is educational approaches to Positive Psychology using research as a mode of practice. It is not a clinical psychology course nor a therapy or counselling course. If you know you wish to practice in these areas, we recommend pursuing a university degree in Clinical Psychology or a diploma in Counselling from a reputable training provider.

7. Can you explain the assignments – what is expected of me?

You will complete a literature review, reflective report, and self-intervention report on your chosen area/s of research interest within Positive Psychology (Module 1). A course supervisor will guide you through the research for these assignments and the assignments steps.

You will write a research project proposal and related literature review (Module 2). Following ethical approval, you will implement, evaluate, report on, and present your research findings in an academic format – 10,000 word dissertation and 40 minute poster presentation (Module 3).

In addition, you will submit a white paper during your active research and may be invited to submit a journal article for publication by the PPG Positive Psychology Centre.

8. Will this course prepare me for a MAPP degree or PhD?

This course is set at Level 7. A Masters in Applied Positive Psychology (MAPP) is equivalent to Level 7 in terms of complexity.

The course will prepare you academically to progress onto a MAPP degree. You will also learn how to write a literature review, reflective log, and conduct a self-intervention. In addition, you will study qualitative and quantitative research methods, and conduct your own independent research on a Positive Psychology topic using one or more of these methods.

Throughout the course, you will be challenged to think critically and reflectively about Positive Psychology research, theory, and practice. These skills are essential to any MAPP degree.

If you wish to apply for a MAPP degree after your course, you may request an academic reference and set of transcripts from PPG to support your application. Please keep in mind that universities have a separate and independent admissions process, and we cannot influence any decision-making.

9. I want to apply to this course but I’m not “academic” – can I still apply?

Academic skills are essential to research at Level 7. Sometimes people don’t consider themselves to be “academic” as they imagine there is only one way to be academic. While some skills are non-negotiable (e.g. critical and reflective thinking, understanding and evaluating scientific research), the ways in which these can be demonstrated may differ across learning styles and preferences.

It might be that you consider yourself to be a “pracademic”, that is a combination of being practical and academic at the same time. If this is the case, then your academic skills will serve to enhance your practical skills and possibly, vice versa (e.g. if you are a certified coach, you might find you enjoy facilitating focus group discussions or individual interviews).

It could be that you struggle with writing. Academic writing is an important part of this course but if you happen to have other forms of communication that work better for you (e.g. you might be a visual learner who can present concepts through diagrams), we will welcome these strengths alongside writing. We are also open to discussing assisted learning technology for those where writing is a barrier.

Some of our researchers find they are creative or kinaesthetic, and we welcome this too. For example, they might express themselves best through art or poetry, or audio-visual methods, or visualisation or movement. If this is the case for you, it is possible to explore a more creative or embodied research method that suits the way you processing information and find most natural to research.

10. I am neurodivergent – is it possible for me to apply?

Yes. The Positive Psychology Guild and its Academy is run by a neurodiverse team and we welcome applications from neurodivergent individuals. We also take a strengths-based approach to learning and research with a focus on what students can do as well as any struggles.

Amongst our researchers are individuals with autism, dyslexia, and ADHD. Some may need to be assessed differently (e.g. oral rather than written assignments) while others may need to be challenged differently in order to grow and fulfil their potential.

Quite often, we find that neurodiversity is a strength in research, as it naturally embeds other ways of thinking, however that is not to assume this should always be the case!

11. I come from a non-dominant / minority culture – will my cultural differences be welcomed?

We welcome cultural diversity and believe it is essential to the growth of Positive Psychology research and practice today. We also recognise that it is a broad and subjective area that requires depth and sensitivity in understanding of that which is seen and unseen. We are open to learning and dialogue with our students to ensure our curriculum continually evolves to represent people of all cultures, and we periodically seek critical feedback from students on how we are doing here.

12. I struggle with my mental health – is this a barrier to applying or doing the course?

As Positive Psychology educators, we recognise that everyone’s mental health can fluctuate over time. To help reduce unnecessary pressure during your studies, we offer flexibility with assignment submission dates and pacing. Should you need to take a break from or extend your course learning time in order to care for your wellbeing, your course completion timeline can be adjusted.

Please be mindful that researching Positive Psychology or training to become a Positive Psychology Practitioner is not a substitute for getting the mental health support we might need from a qualified professional. Independent research can also require more self-motivation and self-direction than a taught course, and these capacities can be impacted by a mental health condition.

If a mental health condition is being managed with professional support, then researching Positive Psychology can become a meaningful and rewarding experience. This could be done initially with a qualified professional using a Positive Psychology-informed approach and later through formal studies.