Overview – Certificate in Pain Science

The goal of this 1-year certificate program is to give the non-clinicians didactic and evidence-based education in the field of pain medicine.

  • Students are able to enter the program during the Fall and Spring semesters.
  • Students continue to work while in the program.
  • Students typically work on the program on evenings or weekends.
  • The program is designed for both United States and international students.
  • The program includes eight courses (12 units).
  • A typical week involves 5-6 hours of video lectures and 5-6 hours of live, interactive video conferencing.

For financial aid options, visit the USC Financial Aid website. Additional financial aid may be available through the program. See program information site for more information.

Have questions about our programs? Want to speak with our Admissions Team? Contact us!

Curriculum

PAIN 702 Pain Classification and Diagnosis – Part 1 (2 units)
This course provides an introduction of pain classification and diagnosis to familiarize the student with a standardized approach to painful conditions.

PAIN 703 Psychological Aspects of the Pain Experience: Individual and Family (2 Units)
This course explores the psychological and social perspectives that influence chronic pain, reinforcing the need to look beyond the initial physical diagnosis.

PAIN 704 Pain and Society: Epidemiology and Cultural Issues (1 unit)
This course explores the societal issues related to pain, including the role of culture, ethnicity, caregiving, and social and psychological factors related to pain and pain management.

PAIN 714 Public policy and Legal issues (1 units)
This courses discus Public Policy and Legal Issues in Pain Medicine including the California Medical Board Guidelines for Pain Medication, CURES, and legislation related with the discipline.

PAIN 715 History of Pain: Theory and Treatment (1 unit)
In this course we will trace through history our collective understanding of pain by examining the people, theories, and technologies which have brought us to our modern understanding.

PAIN 717 Psychological Aspects of Chronic Pain (2 units)
Information and demonstration on specific psychological treatments to decrease pain levels and manage pain flares.

PAIN 718 Complementary Approaches (2 units)
The purpose of this course is to educate on treatment options in pain management by providing framework for integrative models of care.

PAIN 720 Physical & Occupational Therapies (1 units)
This course discusses different Physical and Occupational Therapy techniques for assessing and treating chronic pain.