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 Exercise & 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.

Coach individuals and small groups on Positive Psychology approaches to Strengths, Authenticity, Resilience, Positive Emotions, and Motivation…

As a graduate from our Level 5 Diploma in Positive Psychology Coaching Practice,  you will be qualified to deliver Positive Psychology as a coaching intervention. You will become a Professional Member of the Positive Psychology Guild and will be able to apply to join the PPG Register of Professionals, which sets professional standards for the practice and regulation of Positive Psychology today and provides insurance and liability coverage for practice.

PPG has a strong relationship with Bucks New University, which teaches Positive Psychology at Masters Degree level in the UK. This Level 5 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 Practitioner and Coach.

You will study the Psychology of Strengths, Authenticity, Resilience, Positive Emotions, and Motivation. The Science of Wellbeing and Philosophy of Flourishing runs throughout the course.

You will be trained in Positive Psychology Practitioner Skills and Positive Psychology Coaching Skills for individual and small group clients, and the ethics of running a professional practice.

On graduation, you will be qualified and certified to run a private Positive Psychology Coaching practice, or integrate what you have learned into an existing professional role.

You may also apply for Professional Membership with the Positive Psychology Guild, offers insurance and liability coverage for practice in the UK and Europe, and join the Register of Practitioners.

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

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Student Profiles

This course is designed for people who wish to gain a scientific and philosophical understanding of Positive Psychology while furthering their understanding of themselves and the world around them.

You will be interested in personal development and supporting other people on topics related to character, resilience, and wellbeing. This course will teach you how to apply Positive Psychology in these domains using general practitioner skills and coaching skills.

Students and graduates of this course come from across the world with diverse backgrounds and reasons for doing the course. Many wish to build their own private practice while others plan to integrate what they learn into an existing professional role.

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Our Course Tutors & Trainers

This course is delivered by people who are passionate about Positive Psychology.

All of our tutors and trainers have either completed this course (or a similar one) and are practicing Positive Psychology. They are there to help empower you to learn and give you autonomy over your own learning process whilst supporting you through each stage of the process.

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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 study group led by your course tutor or trainer. Outside of live classes, you will participate in online discussion threads in the group and develop your assignments with peer support.

You will complete your qualification training within 12-18 months. Your course access is valid for 24 months in total.

Entry Criteria

This is a Level 5-ranked qualification.

Level 5 is equivalent to a foundation degree in the UK.

To apply, you must hold a Level 3 qualification or above, or the equivalent (e.g. relevant work experience and professional training), and be willing to engage in Level 5 studies that are delivered through a blend of online group learning (live) and self-directed studies outside of class.

You will need to have a keen interest in personal development and wellbeing, and be curious about how people think, feel, behave, and change.

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

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Accelerated Routes

Are you a qualified Level 5+ Coach who wishes to integrate Positive Psychology into your coaching practice? Or a MAPP or PPG Positive Psychology Practitioner Diploma graduate looking to acquire coaching skills? Or an independent learner who would like to study part of the course solo with tutor support?

If your qualifications and/or professional experience meet or exceed our Level 5 standards, or you have a strong motivation and the skills to direct your own learning for part of this course, you may apply for one of our accelerated diploma routes. For more details, please read on!

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2. Course Outline

Level 5 Diploma Positive Psychology Practice & Coaching

This course is delivered in 3 parts. Module 1 builds your knowledge base in Positive Psychology Fundamentals. Module 2 trains you in Positive Psychology Practitioner Skills. Module 3 completes your training as a Positive Psychology Practitioner & Coach. 

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Module 1 – Positive Psychology Fundamentals

In this Module, you will explore Strengths, Authenticity, Resilience, Positive Emotions, and Motivation.

You will study broader concepts in Psychology, Philosophy, and Sociology that are relevant to understanding the research, theory, and practice of Positive Psychology and its inter-disciplinary links.

On successful completion of this Module, you will receive a Level 5 Certificate Positive Psychology Fundamentals. You will not yet be certified to practice professionally, as this step requires completion of Modules 2 and 3.

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You will study and explore:

• Unit 1: The Psychology of Strengths
• Unit 2: The Psychology of Authenticity
• Unit 3: The Psychology of Resilience
• Unit 4: The Psychology of Positive Emotions
• Unit 5: The Psychology of Motivation

This first module is also the equivalent of a Level 5 Certificate Positive Psychology Fundamentals.

For more details on this module content and assessment, please view: PPQS-01 L5 PPF Certificate Qualification Specification

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Module 2 – Positive Psychology Practitioner Skills

In this Module, you will be trained in the general skills required for professional practice.

You will practice these skills with peers in your training group. You may also practice with family and friends who are willing to support your growth as a future Positive Psychology Practitioner & Coach.

You will learn how to run a safe and ethical practice, assess client needs, educate clients, and guide them through educational interventions that support positive change.

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You will study and practice:

• Session 1: Professional Practice
• Session 2: Client Engagement
• Session 3: Psychoeducation
• Session 4: Positive Interventions
• Session 5: Mental Health & Wellbeing
• Session 6: Diversity, Neurodiversity & Inclusion

This second module is also the equivalent of a Level 5 Certificate Positive Psychology Practitioner Skills.

For more details on this module content and assessment, please view: PPQS-03 L5 PPPS Certificate Qualification Specification

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Module 3 – Positive Psychology Coaching Practice

In this Module, you will be trained to apply Positive Psychology using coaching skills in a professional context with 1:1 practice supervision.

You will practice these skills with peers in your training group and later, with volunteer “clients” – these are project participates who consent to being coached by you as part of your training.

You will learn how to integrate your knowledge of Positive Psychology and general practitioner skills into coaching contexts. Incorporating coaching skills will strengthen your capacity to support clients in their personal growth.

On successful completion of this module, you will qualify as a Certified Positive Psychology Coaching Practitioner and be able to work with clients in a safe and ethical manner.

You may apply for Professional Membership with the Positive Psychology Guild and become a registered Positive Psychology Practitioner.

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You will study and practice:

• Session 1: Coaching Landscapes
• Session 2: Coaching Conversations
• Session 3: Coaching Education
• Session 4: Coaching Interventions
• Session 5: Coaching Programmes
• Session 6: Coaching Project Design

After Session 6, you will progress to 1:1 trainee supervision and practice observation.

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3. Certification

This qualification is accredited by the Positive Psychology Guild (PPG).

PPG is a Not for Profit Organisation and a government registered learning provider with a UK Provider Reference Number: 10067939.

On successful completion of your diploma, you will receive a certificate stating that you hold a Level 5 Diploma in Positive Psychology Coaching Practice. You may refer to yourself as a Positive Psychology Practitioner & Coach (PPGDip).

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Professional Membership

Graduates of this course will be invited to join the Positive Psychology Guild as a Professional Member.

Professional Membership includes liability and insurance coverage for practice in the UK and the possibility to apply to join the Register of Positive Psychology Practitioners.

For more information on membership services, please click here.

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Course Progression

On certification, you may progress to one of the following qualifications:

• Level 5 Diploma Positive Psychology Practice & Training
• Level 5 Diploma Positive Organisational Psychology
• Level 7 Certificate Applied Positive Psychology Research

For further details, please contact us at: training@ppnetwork.org

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CPD Training Events

As an Academy member or graduate, you will be invited to CPD training events run by the Positive Psychology Centre.

Recorded events include Positive Education, Positive Health, and Positive Organisations, Positive Leadership & Engagement. 

For information and bookings on upcoming events, please contact us at: events@ppnetwork.org

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4. Next Steps

Entry to this course is open throughout the year.

The Module 1 units may be studied in any order – this allows flexibility in your start date.

Upcoming Module 1 enrolment dates are:

• Thursday 29th June 2023 – Motivation Unit (Zoom classes start on Tuesday 4th July 2023)
• Thursday 19th Oct 2023 – Strengths Unit (Zoom classes start on Tuesday 24th October 2023)
• Thursday 18th January 2024 – Authenticity Unit (Zoom classes start on Tuesday 23rd January 2024)
• Thursday 14th March 2024 – Resilience Unit (Zoom classes start on Tuesday 19th March 2024)
• Thursday 9th May 2024 – Positive Emotions Unit (Zoom classes start on Tuesday 14th May 2024)
• Thursday 4th July 2024 – Motivation Unit (Zoom classes start on Tuesday 9th July 2024)

Group training enrolment dates are in February and September (Module 2) and April and November (Module 3) of each year. You will be given a study plan during Module 1 enrolment with enrolment options.

The total time for course completion is 18-24 months.

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

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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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Course Fees

The diploma qualification fee is £3,450 (March 2022+ fees). This includes:

• Access to the Positive Psychology Academy
• Access to self-paced interactive study material
• Group tutoring, tutor feedback, and assessments
• Group training and trainee practice supervision
• Certification on successful completion of the course
• Access to CPD Positive Health (Module 2)
• Access to CPD Neurodiversity & Inclusion (Module 2)
• Access to CPD Positive Organisations (Module 3)

Payment options include:

• Single payment during enrolment with a £500 discount (£2,950)
• PPG Payment Plan with a deposit of £1,450 and 20 x monthly instalments of £100 (Option 1)
• PPG Payment Plan with a deposit of £1450 and 10 x monthly instalments of £200 (Option 2)

SUMMER DISCOUNT 2023! 

During June, July, and August 2023, we are offering a discounted rate of £2450 for the full diploma (Modules 1, 2 and 3).

This discount applies only to the June and October 2023 enrolments. It does not apply to 2024 enrolments or the Accelerated Routes below. Payment plans are available on request.

Applications must be received by 31st August 2023 to be eligible for the discount. After this date, the regular course fee of £3450 above applies.

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

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Accelerated Route 1 (Level 5+ Coaches)

Qualified and experienced Level 5+ coaches may apply for an accelerated version of this course.

You will complete Modules 1 and 2 then enter 1:1 project supervision and observation in Module 3.

The fee for this option is £2,650 (March 2022+ fees).

You may pay the full course fee during enrolment and receive a £300 discount (£2,350) or select a PPG Payment Plan with a deposit during enrolment of £850 and subsequent monthly installments (Option 1: 18 x £100; Option 2: 9 x £200). You must complete your course payment in order to qualify.

Entry Criteria

• Level 5+ Coaching qualification from a recognised learning provider. This should include an understanding of professional ethics, client engagement processes, and person-centred coaching practice.

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Accelerated Route 2 (MAPP & PPGDip Graduates)

MAPP and PPG Certified Positive Psychology Practitioner graduates may apply for an accelerated version of this course.

• MAPP Graduates – you will complete Modules 2 and 3 only and have access to Module 1. 
• PPG Level 5 Certified Positive Psychology Practitioners – you will complete Module 3 only.

The fee for this option is £1,450 (March 2022+ fees).

You may pay the full course fee during enrolment and receive a £200 discount (£1,250) or select a PPG Payment Plan with a deposit during enrolment of £450 and subsequent monthly installments (Option 1: 10 x £100; Option 2: 5 x £200). You must complete your course payment in order to qualify.

Entry Criteria

• MAPP degree from a recognised university OR
• PPG Level 5 Diploma Positive Psychology Training Practice OR
• PPG Level 5 Diploma Positive Organisational Psychology

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Accelerated Route 3 (Independent Researchers)

We also offer an accelerated route through Module 1 for self-directed learners who wish to engage in further research (e.g. at Level 7).

This route is suited to students with prior academic learning of Psychology, Philosophy, and/or Sociology, who feel comfortable navigating scientific journals and academic literature.

On this route, you will work through Module 1 at your own pace and meet via Zoom with your tutor to discuss assignment ideas (one tutor call via Zoom per assignment plus email support). 

You will complete Modules 2 and 3 as outlined above in the standard course description. This will include live attendance of the group training cycle calls.

The fee for this option is £2950 (March 2023+ fees) and you may apply to start your learning at any time of the year (please indicate your desired start date in your application).

You may pay the course fee in full during enrolment and receive a £300 discount or pay a deposit of £1350 and monthly instalments (Option 1 = 16 x £100; Option 2 = 8 x £200).

Entry Criteria

• Strong motivation and ability to direct your own learning process (Module 1)
• Ability to transition to live group training (Modules 2 & 3) and 1:1 supervision (Module 3)
• Academic research and referencing skills (acquired through prior learning, e.g. a Bachelors degree)

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Multiple Pathways

You may apply to study all 3 diploma pathways (coaching, training, organisations).

This will help you to develop a broader Positive Psychology practice with a wider skill set to meet more complex client needs.

If you wish to complete all 3 pathways, a discounted rate of £4,950* applies (March 2022+ fees).

You may pay the full course fee during enrolment and receive a further £100 discount (£4,850) or through a PPG Payment Plan with a deposit of £1,550 and subsequent monthly installments (Option 1: 34 x £100; Option 2: 17 x £200).

*The Multiple Pathways option includes 1 full diploma (£3,450) and 2 diplomas – Accelerated Route 2 (£1,450 each). This totals £6,350. The discounted rate is £4,950 (savings of £1,400). This offer is only available during a single application (i.e. not applied retrospectively after completing one or two diplomas).

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Dual Pathways

You may also apply to study 2 diploma pathways.

This will help you to develop more flexibility in responding to evolving client needs in your Positive Psychology professional practice.

If you wish to complete 2 pathways, a discounted rate of £4,450* applies (March 2022+ fees).

You may pay the full course fee during enrolment and receive a further £100 discount (£4,350) or through a PPG Payment Plan with a deposit of £1,050 and subsequent monthly installments (Option 1: 34 x £100; Option 2: 17 x £200).

*The Dual Pathways option includes 1 full diploma (£3,450) and 1 diploma – Accelerated Route 2 (£1,450). This totals £4,900. The discounted rate is £4,450 (savings of £450). This offer is only available during a single application (i.e. not applied retrospectively after completing a diploma).

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Positive Psychology Guild?

The Positive Psychology Guild is a limited company with not-for-profit status and a UK government registered learning provider. It trains, certifies, and insures Positive Psychology Practitioners. For further information, please click here.

How many hours of studying a week should I expect?

We estimate 5-7 hours a week (this includes group tutor calls) with additional hours during assignment phases.

What is the Total Qualification Time (TQT) for this course?

The TQT is set at 360 hours (Module 1 = 180hrs, Module 2 = 60hrs, Module 3 = 120hrs).  This includes class time, participation in the online study group discussion threads, reading the materials provided, further reading of your own initiative, peer practice, project delivery, supervision and observation, and assignment development and submission.

How many diplomas will I be studying?

This is a joint qualification. You will receive a Level 5 Certificate Positive Psychology Fundamentals on successful completion of Module 1 (non-practitioner), and a Level 5 Diploma Positive Psychology Practice & Coaching on successful completion of Modules 2 and 3.

Do graduates go on to practice professionally after this degree?

Yes. We prepare you with the knowledge, skills, and initial practice hours to feel confident in setting up a private practice or integrate what you have learned into an existing professional role.

Will the PPG membership package cover me for insurance and liability?

The Professional Membership package includes liability and insurance coverage to practice Positive Psychology within the scope of your qualification in the UK. This practice covers talk-based Positive Psychology psycho-education and interventions (e.g. coaching, training, facilitation, teaching, counseling).

It does not cover exercise, sport, or movement (if this is your area of professional practice, you will need to have in place relevant insurance coverage here). It also does not cover clinical psychology or counseling areas that extend beyond Positive Psychology (e.g. supporting clients with mental health conditions such as depression, trauma, and anxiety – again, you will need relevant insurance coverage here for these other dimensions of your practice).

Will this course prepare me for a MAPP degree?

This course is set at Level 5. A Masters in Applied Positive Psychology (MAPP) is equivalent to Level 7.

The course will prepare you to progress onto a MAPP degree. For example, you will read research articles on Positive Psychology and learn how to conduct Positive Psychology self-interventions, write literature reviews, critical reviews, and reflective logs, and prepare a research proposal.

Throughout the course, you will be challenged to think critically about Positive Psychology research, theory, and application. These academic skills are essential to a MAPP degree. You will also study links between Positive Psychology and other schools of thought in Psychology, Philosophy, and Sociology.

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.

I want to apply to this course but I’m not academic – can I still apply?

Yes. We welcome both academic and practical learners onto this course – you might even be or become both!

Academic skills will help you to read and review the research on Positive Psychology. This is important when building an evidence-based practice, as you will need to keep up to date with the latest progressions in the field.

During Module 1, our tutors will teach you how to develop these academic skills if you do not already have them. During Modules 2 and 3, our trainers will teach you how to translate these academic skills into professional practice.

I am interested in Positive Psychology research – what are my options?

If you have an interest in research, we recommend completing the Level 5 Diploma Positive Psychology Fundamentals. You will attend the same group classes for Module 1 but instead of online assessments, you will complete research-based assignments for each unit (e.g. literature review, reflective log, critical review, self-intervention, research proposal). You will still continue with Modules 2 and 3, the difference will be that your depth of analytical skills in practice and knowledge base of Positive Psychology will likely be stronger. 

You may progress from here to the Level 7 Certificate in Applied Positive Psychology. This certificate is an exciting opportunity to explore practical questions you may have about the application of Positive Psychology and develop your own research contribution to the field.

We also offer opportunities to research Positive Psychology approaches to Autism Awareness and Neurodiversity & Inclusion in collaboration with our Autism Centre.

For further information on becoming a Positive Psychology Researcher, please contact us at: research@ppnetwork.org

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

Yes. The Positive Psychology Guild and its functions (Membership, Education) welcome applications from neurodivergent individuals.

Amongst our student base are individuals with autism, dyslexia, OCD, and ADHD. Some may need to be assessed differently (e.g. oral rather than written assignments) while others may need more one-to-one tutor or trainer support. We do our best to differentiate here and ensure you are supported.

Our team is also neurodiverse. That means we practice what we teach as an organisation.