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Professional Certificate of Medical Trichology

Learn the foundations of managing hair and scalp disorders, from consultation and assessment through to therapeutics.

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Professional Certificate of Medical Trichology

CPD

40 hrs Education
54 hrs Performance
8.5 hrs Outcome

Delivery

Fully online
Learn from
anywhere

Duration

102.5 hours
Self-paced
Start anytime

Overview

Take an evidence-based approach to the assessment and management of hair and scalp disorders commonly seen in general practice.

From core anatomy and physiology through to trichoscopy and targeted management of conditions such as pattern hair loss, telogen effluvium and alopecia areata, this Certificate Course emphasises real-world clinical decision-making, accurate diagnosis, appropriate investigations, patient-centred counselling, and knowing when to treat, reassure, or refer.

Who it is for and what you will learn:

  • This course is perfect for practitioners with no to little training in this area.

  • This course is for medical doctors, International Medical Graduates, registered nurses, and degree-qualified health professionals.

  • CPD-accredited and university-reviewed.

Learning outcomes

  • Build confidence in diagnosing common and complex hair loss presentations seen in general practice.

  • Improve diagnostic accuracy using structured history taking, examination, and trichoscopy.

  • Apply evidence-based management for male and female pattern hair loss, telogen effluvium, and alopecia areata.

  • Better support your patients through realistic counselling and recognition of psychosocial impact.

  • Know when to manage in primary care and when referral is appropriate.

Course contents

Foundations of hair & scalp - anatomy & function 1

Foundations of Hair & Scalp: Anatomy & Function 1 provides a comprehensive introduction to the anatomy, physiology and biological processes that govern hair growth and scalp health. Designed for healthcare professionals, this course explores the follicular unit, pilosebaceous anatomy, immune privilege, vascular and nerve supply, and the mechanisms that regulate the hair cycle. Through clear explanations and clinically relevant examples, participants gain a deeper understanding of how normal follicular biology relates to common hair disorders such as alopecia and inflammatory scalp conditions. By linking microscopic anatomy with clinical application, the course builds essential knowledge for accurate diagnosis, patient management and further training in medical trichology.

Foundations of hair & scalp - anatomy & function 2

Foundations of Hair & Scalp: Anatomy & Function 2 builds on the fundamental concepts introduced in Part 1, exploring the structure and behaviour of the hair shaft, variations in hair types, determinants of hair colour, and the anatomy of scalp skin. Participants will learn how keratin structure and bonding influence hair strength, elasticity and curl pattern, and how chemical or heat treatments alter hair integrity. The course also examines human hair classifications, racial variations in hair morphology, and the biological processes responsible for pigmentation and greying. Finally, it explores the specialised structure of scalp skin and the dermatological conditions that commonly affect this region.

Examination and history taking for hair disorders

Examination and History Taking for Hair Disorders provides clinicians with a structured approach to assessing patients presenting with hair loss and scalp disease. This course explores how to classify hair disorders, conduct comprehensive history taking, perform systematic hair and scalp examinations, and use diagnostic tools to improve clinical reasoning. Participants will learn how to interpret findings, narrow differential diagnoses, and apply evidence-based strategies to develop patient-centred management plans. By integrating clinical examination skills with diagnostic frameworks and holistic care principles, the course equips practitioners with the confidence to assess hair disorders accurately and guide patients through appropriate treatment pathways.

Foundations of Trichoscopy for hair disorders

Foundations of Trichoscopy for Hair Disorders introduces clinicians to the dermoscopic examination of the hair and scalp, an essential diagnostic tool in modern trichology. This course teaches practitioners how to recognise key trichoscopic patterns associated with common hair conditions including androgenetic alopecia, alopecia areata, telogen effluvium and cicatricial alopecias. Through practical clinical examples and image-based learning, participants will develop the ability to identify hair shaft abnormalities, follicular changes, vascular patterns and scalp findings visible with a dermatoscope. By integrating trichoscopic observations with clinical assessment, clinicians will improve diagnostic accuracy and gain greater confidence in distinguishing between scarring and non-scarring hair loss.

Male pattern hair loss - diagnosis and treatment

Male Pattern Hair Loss – Diagnosis and Treatment provides clinicians with a comprehensive understanding of the most common cause of hair loss in men. This course explores the genetic, hormonal and molecular mechanisms that drive follicular miniaturisation and patterned baldness. Participants will learn how to recognise the clinical features of male pattern hair loss, assess disease severity using validated classification systems, and distinguish it from other causes of alopecia. The course also examines the psychosocial impact of hair loss and presents evidence-based management strategies, including medical therapies, procedural treatments, and cosmetic approaches that help clinicians develop effective, patient-centred treatment plans.

Female pattern hair loss - diagnosis and treatment

Female Pattern Hair Loss – Diagnosis and Treatment provides clinicians with a comprehensive overview of one of the most common causes of hair thinning in women. This course explores the epidemiology, pathophysiology and clinical presentation of female pattern hair loss, helping practitioners recognise its characteristic patterns and distinguish it from other causes of alopecia. Participants will learn how to perform effective clinical assessments, interpret trichoscopic findings and develop appropriate management strategies. Evidence-based treatment options are reviewed, including topical and oral therapies, anti-androgen treatments and procedural approaches, enabling clinicians to deliver personalised care and support improved outcomes for patients experiencing hair loss.

Telogen Effluvium

Telogen Effluvium provides clinicians with a comprehensive understanding of one of the most common causes of diffuse hair shedding. This course explores the biology of the hair growth cycle, the mechanisms that disrupt it, and the clinical features that characterise telogen effluvium. Participants will learn how to recognise acute and chronic forms of the condition, identify common triggers such as illness, stress, medications and nutritional deficiencies, and apply structured diagnostic approaches in clinical practice. Evidence-based management strategies are also reviewed, enabling clinicians to provide reassurance, address underlying causes and support hair regrowth through personalised treatment plans.

Alopecia Areata - Diagnosis and treatment

Alopecia Areata – Diagnosis and Treatment provides clinicians with a comprehensive understanding of this common autoimmune cause of non-scarring hair loss. The course explores the underlying immune mechanisms that disrupt the hair follicle, leading to patchy or widespread hair loss. Participants will learn how to recognise the diverse clinical presentations of alopecia areata, assess disease severity using validated tools, and distinguish it from other causes of hair loss. Evidence-based treatment strategies are reviewed, including topical, intralesional and systemic therapies, as well as emerging targeted treatments. By the end of the course, clinicians will be equipped to diagnose alopecia areata confidently and develop personalised management plans for affected patients.

Introduction to Trichology - A clinician's guide

Introduction to Trichology – A Clinician’s Guide provides healthcare professionals with a foundational understanding of trichology, the science of hair and scalp health. This course explores how hair biology, scalp physiology, and lifestyle factors interact to influence hair growth, hair loss, and scalp conditions. Participants will learn the role of trichology in clinical practice, including assessment techniques, hair care advice, and patient education. The course also examines the formulation of common hair care products and the importance of culturally competent guidance for diverse hair types, including Afro-textured hair. By the end of the course, clinicians will be equipped with practical knowledge to support patients experiencing hair and scalp concerns.

Meet your instructors

Dr Ahmed Kazmi Dr Ahmed Kazmi MRCP, FACD
Dr Ahmed Kazmi Dr Ahmed Kazmi MRCP, FACD
Dr Ahmed Kazmi Dr Ahmed Kazmi MRCP, FACD
Professor Richard Usatine Professor Richard Usatine MD PhD
Dr Bevin Bhoyrul Dr Bevin Bhoyrul MBBS, PGCE, MRCGP, MRCP (Derm), FACD
Dr Jeff Donovan Dr Jeff Donovan PhD
Dr Eeshara Vithana Dr Eeshara Vithana MBBS FRACGP MSC MD FACAM FAID
Assoc. Professor Aaron Robinson Live Tutorial Presenter Assoc. Professor Aaron Robinson BBioTech (Hons), MBBS, PhD, FACD, GAICD
Dr Ahmed Kazmi Dr Ahmed Kazmi MRCP, FACD

Other ways to study this topic

Workshop

Complete your certificate online, then build practical skills in the accompanying optional hands-on workshop.

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Short courses

Study selected topics from this certificate as focused, standalone short courses for targeted upskilling in under 10 hours. 

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CPD accreditation and course details

CPD Accreditation and Activities

Accredited CPD activities in this certificate

Each module in this certificate is an RACGP and ACRRM approved CPD activity. The certificate provides 50 hours of CPD for medical professionals in Australia.*

RACGP Activity Number ACRRM Activity Number Activity Title Education Hours Performance Hours
1553600 41110 Foundations of hair & scalp - anatomy & function 1 4.5 6.0
1553616 41111 Foundations of hair & scalp - anatomy & function 2 4.5 6.0
1553621 41112 Examination and history taking for hair disorders 5.5 6.0
1553628 41113 Foundations of Trichoscopy for hair disorders 4.0 6.0
1553637  41114 Male pattern hair loss - diagnosis and treatment 4.5 6.0
1553646 41116 Female pattern hair loss - diagnosis and treatment 4.5 6.0
1553652 41117 Telogen Effluvium 4.0 6.0
1553660 41118 Alopecia Areata - Diagnosis and treatment 3.5 6.0
1553667 41119 Introduction to Trichology - A clinician's guide 5.0 6.0
Total hours 40.0 54.0

*When the optional outcome measurement activity (minimum 5 hours) is completed. See our FAQs for more information about annual CPD requirements.

View the CPD Hours for all HealthCert Education activities.

Outcome measurement
The purpose of outcome measurement activities is to improve your clinical confidence in managing an identified learning gap. Outcome measurement activities are not a requirement of our Professional Certificate of Advanced Certificate courses; they are a requirement for Australian CPD purposes.

HealthCert Education provides a variety of outcome measurements activities to suit your needs:

  • Outcome Improvement Activities relating to specific topics within a course. They are designed to examine current clinical care, align clinical practice with best practice standards, and identify opportunities for improvement. These activities are accredited with RACGP and ACRRM.

  • Plan Do Study Act (PDSA) options on a specific topic or your identified area. A generic template and guides are provided. PDSAs are self-submitted activities.

  • Additional activities with guides include Test Measurement, Pathology Results, Practice Meetings, Peer Review, Practice Accreditation, Project Management, Student Supervision, and Pick your own topics (General Practice and Log Book methods). These are self-submitted activities.

Entry Requirements

The Professional Certificate of Medical Trichology is for physicians and degree-qualified medical professionals. There are no prerequisites.

Participants do not have to pass an IELTS test but, as the courses are delivered in English, proficiency in listening, reading and writing English is assumed.

Participants will require access to a computer/laptop, an internet connection and a basic level of technology proficiency to access and navigate the online learning portal.

Recognised Prior Learning (RPL)

Professionally recognised qualifications and prior studies may be recognised for entry into this course if the learning outcomes match exactly. Please ask a HealthCert Education Advisor for an individual assessment of your prior qualifications and experience.

Certification

This certificate course meets the minimum 50 hours CPD annual requirement across all three mandatory CPD activity types, provided an outcome measurement activity with a minimum of five hours is completed. You may use an optional HealthCert outcome measurement activity or develop your own.

Outcome measurement activities are not a requirement of Professional or Advanced Certificates.

Upon successful completion of the course requirements, course participants will receive the Professional Certificate of Medical Trichology and CPD hours.

This certificate course:

  • Is reviewed by Griffith University to comply with RACGP and ACRRM standards.

  • Qualifies for CPD hours from the Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (RACGP).

  • Qualifies for CPD hours from the Australian College of Rural and Remote Medicine (ACRRM).

  • Is recognised by the Royal New Zealand College of General Practitioners (RNZCGP).

  • Is recognised by the Hong Kong College of Family Physicians (HKCFP). The HKCFP recognises all courses endorsed by the RACGP. Hours are calculated differently.

  • Is a self-submitted activity in Dubai. The number of CPD hours must be stated on the certificate. Contact PLD@dhcr.gov.ae for more information.

  • Is a self-submitted activity in the UK. CPD events overseas, applicable to a doctor’s scope of practice, may be submitted for revalidation. Please confirm with your Responsible Officer.

  • Is a self-submitted activity in Canada through the College of Family Physicians of Canada. Contact mainprocredits@cfpc.ca for more information.

  • Meets World Federation of Medical Education standards.

  • Has been independently developed with subject experts and does not receive education grants from any pharmaceutical company.

To learn more about the delivery of certificates in Australia and overseas, please visit our FAQs.

Pathways

Postgraduate pathways

Graduates of the HealthCert Professional Certificate of Medical Trichology qualify for a scholarship into the Postgraduate Certificate of Trichology and Hair Sciences: an online course designed for medical practitioners.  Please contact our UK partner directly regarding this scholarship and discounted fees for HealthCert alumni: https://www.diploma-msc.com/s/healthcert

University quality-assured and CPD-accredited education provider

This organisation is an RACGP-accredited CPD provider under the RACGP CPD Program.

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AMA
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Frequently asked questions

What are the costs and payment options of the course?

Fees will vary based on the program and study option selected (fully online vs online + optional practical workshop). Payments can be made upfront or in monthly instalments. Special rates and various payment options are available. GP registrars and doctors in training enjoy a scholarship of up to $500. Talk to us to learn more.

What is the Alumni Support Program?

Completion of any HealthCert course or attendance at an event will enable you to access the HealthCert Alumni Program which includes:

  • Access to special alumni rates for new courses when they are released.

  • Special alumni price for HealthCert Conferences.

  • Exclusive advanced access to HealthCert events.

  • Regular Alumni Webinars pertaining to the course(s) you have attended. These will provide content review of the course and an opportunity to discuss case studies.

  • Access to the video lectures as seen during the course(s) that you have attended.

How will I receive my certificate?

HealthCert Education is pleased to issue digital credentials for alumni. Digital credentials are a permanent online record of your successful completion of a HealthCert course and are issued to all course participants in addition to PDF certificates. If you are based in Australia, you also have the option to order a hard copy of your digital certificate for a small additional fee.

How long will the course take to complete?

The recommended study duration of this certificate course is listed at the top of this page. The estimated duration includes study of the pre-course activities and readings, online lectures, live tutorials, and online assessment. This self-paced course offers the flexibility of 100% online study in your own time, at your own pace, in your own home or office, with no mandatory face-to-face requirements. You are not required to be online at specific times but can view and replay video lectures at your convenience.

Is this course recognised in my country?

All HealthCert courses meet World Federation of Medical Education standards. This certificate course qualifies for CPD hours from the Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (RACGP) and the Australian College of Rural and Remote Medicine (ACRRM) in Australia. It is recognised by the Royal New Zealand College of General Practitioners (RNZCGP) in New Zealand. It is recognised by the Hong Kong College of Family Physicians (HKCFP) in China. It is a self-submitted activity in Dubai and the United Kingdom. It is a self-submitted activity through the College of Family Physicians in Canada. If you live or work outside one of the above-mentioned countries, please contact us on admin@healthcert.com to discuss whether this course can be recognised in your country.

Cancellation policy: What happens if I can't attend a practical workshop?

Course/workshop cancellations and transfers policy

Should you be unable to attend a course or practical workshop you have registered for, please inform us asap at admin@healthcert.com so we can make your place available to waitlisted doctors.

Charges may apply for course/workshop cancellations and/or transfers. Click here for details.

What our alumni say

Join thousands of doctors who have advanced their clinical practice with our certificate courses.

"HealthCert courses have become the standard by which you gauge all others."

Dr K. Abolarinwa

"Good, courses with excellent speakers. I particularly enjoyed the case study scenarios which helped to integrate the knowledge gained."

- Dr A. Tucker

"This is the pathway to improve your confidence and evolve into the GP you aspire to be"

- Dr S. Shinwari

Get in touch with us

Our Education Advisors can assist you with any queries and tailor your education pathway to suit your current expertise, interests and career goals.

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Richard Silsby

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Campbell Elton

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