Transform Your Understanding with Diploma in Emotional Neuroscience and Social Cognition
The OSHAA 30-Hours Diploma in Neuroscience of Emotions and Social Cognition is designed to provide learners with a comprehensive understanding of how emotions and social processes are shaped by the human brain. This course explores the neurological foundations behind emotional responses, decision-making, empathy, and interpersonal behavior in professional and social environments. Although it is not Ofqual regulated, the programme follows structured learning outcomes aligned with international best practices, making it highly valuable for individuals seeking practical, science-based insights into human behavior, emotional intelligence, and social interaction across diverse workplace and organizational settings.
Through a balanced combination of theoretical concepts and real-world applications, this diploma enables learners to interpret emotional and social cues more effectively. Participants gain insight into brain structures, neural pathways, and cognitive mechanisms that influence communication, relationships, and performance. The course emphasizes practical relevance, helping learners apply neuroscience principles to leadership, teamwork, conflict management, and wellbeing initiatives. It also serves as a strong professional development pathway for those aiming to enhance their profiles through further certifications and diplomas in psychology, behavioral science, human factors, and organizational development, without positioning itself as an academic or regulated qualification.
OSHAA 30-Hours Diploma in Neuroscience of Emotions and Social Cognition equips learners with knowledge and skills that are increasingly valued across modern industries. By developing a deeper awareness of emotional regulation, social cognition, and brain-based behavior, participants can strengthen their professional effectiveness and ethical decision-making. The course supports career progression by complementing other professional certifications and diplomas related to mental health awareness, leadership development, safety culture, and human performance. Overall, it offers a practical, globally relevant learning experience for individuals seeking to understand and apply the science of emotions and social behavior in real-world contexts.
Program Highlights
Study Units
- Introduction to Affective Neuroscience and Emotional Processing (3 hours)
- Brain Structures Involved in Emotion Regulation (4 hours)
- Neurobiology of Empathy, Compassion, and Moral Cognition (5 hours)
- Social Cognition: Theory of Mind and Perspective-Taking (4 hours)
- Emotional Learning and Decision-Making Mechanisms (3 hours)
- Neuroscience of Attachment and Social Bonding (5 hours)
- Understanding Emotional Dysregulation and Psychopathology (4 hours)
- Cultural and Developmental Influences on Social Cognition (2 hours)
Entry Requirement
To ensure a productive and engaging learning experience, the OSHAA 30-Hours Diploma in Neuroscience of Emotions and Social Cognition is designed with accessible entry requirements that welcome learners from diverse academic and professional backgrounds.
- Age Requirement: Learners should be at least 18 years of age at the time of enrolment to ensure the maturity needed to understand cognitive, emotional, and social neuroscience concepts.
- Educational Background: A basic educational qualification such as a high school certificate or equivalent is recommended. Learners with prior exposure to related diplomas or certificates in psychology, mental health awareness, human behaviour, leadership development, health and safety, or workplace wellbeing may find the course content especially beneficial, though this is not mandatory.
- Language Proficiency: As the course is delivered in English, learners should possess a reasonable level of English reading, writing, and comprehension skills to follow the learning materials, assessments, and discussions effectively.
- Work Experience: Previous work experience is not required; however, individuals with experience in management, education, healthcare, safety, human resources, counselling, or people-focused roles may gain additional practical value from the course.
Overall, these entry requirements are designed to keep the programme inclusive and flexible, allowing motivated learners to build valuable knowledge and skills regardless of their academic pathway or professional stage.
Learning Outcomes
Introduction to Affective Neuroscience and Emotional Processing (3 Hours)
- Understand the fundamental principles of affective neuroscience and its importance within psychological science
- Explore how emotional processes are generated and regulated by the brain
- Identify key theories and models that explain emotional processing
- Recognise the influence of emotions on behaviour, motivation, and decision-making
- Develop a foundational understanding of emotional responses in everyday and professional contexts
Brain Structures Involved in Emotion Regulation (4 Hours)
- Identify major brain regions involved in emotion regulation, including the amygdala, prefrontal cortex, and insula
- Understand the functional roles of each structure in emotional arousal and control
- Examine how neural networks interact during emotional experiences
- Analyse how impaired regulation can affect emotional stability
- Recognise links between brain dysfunction and emotional challenges
Neurobiology of Empathy, Compassion, and Moral Cognition (5 Hours)
- Explore the neural mechanisms that support empathy and compassion
- Understand how moral judgement and prosocial behaviour develop in the brain
- Examine the role of mirror neurons in emotional understanding
- Evaluate how neural circuits influence social connection and ethical behaviour
- Assess individual differences in emotional and moral processing
Social Cognition: Theory of Mind and Perspective-Taking (4 Hours)
- Define theory of mind and its role in social understanding
- Examine brain systems involved in interpreting others’ thoughts and emotions
- Understand the neural basis of perspective-taking
- Apply social cognition concepts to real-life communication scenarios
- Identify challenges in social reasoning and interaction
Emotional Learning and Decision-Making Mechanisms (3 Hours)
- Understand how emotions shape learning and memory formation
- Identify brain systems involved in reward, risk, and emotional memory
- Examine the role of emotions in judgement and choice
- Recognise emotional biases in decision-making
- Apply insights to improve behavioural awareness and outcomes
Neuroscience of Attachment and Social Bonding (5 Hours)
- Explore the neurobiological foundations of attachment and bonding
- Understand the roles of oxytocin, dopamine, and related neurotransmitters
- Examine how relationships influence brain development
- Assess the impact of early experiences on attachment styles
- Recognise the neural basis of trust, connection, and affiliation
Understanding Emotional Dysregulation and Psychopathology (4 Hours)
- Define emotional dysregulation and its psychological significance
- Identify neural patterns linked to anxiety, depression, and mood disorders
- Understand how brain imbalances affect emotional control
- Examine how neuroscience explains emotional symptoms
- Apply brain-based insights to behavioural understanding
Cultural and Developmental Influences on Social Cognition (2 Hours)
- Understand how culture shapes emotional expression and social understanding
- Examine developmental stages of emotional and social brain growth
- Explore the influence of upbringing on empathy and behaviour
- Identify environmental factors affecting social learning
- Evaluate how cultural diversity impacts social cognition
Target Audience
The OSHAA 30-Hours Diploma in Neuroscience of Emotions and Social Cognition is designed for individuals who want to understand the science behind emotions, behaviour, and social interaction, and apply this knowledge across professional and personal contexts.
Professionals Working in People-Focused Roles
- Managers, supervisors, and team leaders seeking stronger interpersonal skills
- Human resources and organisational development professionals
- Trainers, educators, and learning facilitators
- Health, safety, and wellbeing coordinators
- Professionals involved in communication and stakeholder engagement
Individuals Interested in Psychology and Human Behaviour
- Learners with a general interest in emotional and social neuroscience
- Individuals aiming to better understand emotional responses and behaviour
- Those exploring brain-based approaches to decision-making
- People seeking insight into empathy, compassion, and social interaction
- Learners looking to build foundational knowledge in cognitive sciences
Leaders and Decision-Makers
- Professionals responsible for guiding teams and influencing culture
- Leaders seeking to improve emotional intelligence and ethical judgement
- Individuals involved in conflict resolution and negotiation
- Managers aiming to enhance trust and collaboration
- Those looking to apply neuroscience to leadership practices
Health, Wellbeing, and Support Practitioners
- Wellbeing officers and mental health advocates
- Support workers and counsellors in non-clinical roles
- Professionals involved in employee assistance and care initiatives
- Individuals promoting positive behavioural change
- Practitioners supporting emotional awareness and resilience
Educators, Coaches, and Trainers
- Teachers seeking to understand emotional learning processes
- Coaches working on behavioural and performance development
- Mentors supporting personal growth and social skills
- Learning professionals designing people-centred programmes
- Facilitators focusing on empathy and communication skills
Learners Seeking Professional Development
- Individuals aiming to enhance their career profiles
- Professionals pursuing further certifications and diplomas
- Learners interested in global, non-regulated training programmes
- Those seeking practical, neuroscience-informed knowledge
- Individuals committed to continuous personal and professional growth
Overall, this course is ideal for anyone seeking a deeper, practical understanding of emotions and social cognition to improve effectiveness, awareness, and impact in today’s people-driven environments.
