Executive Certificate in Self & Identity

In the module, students will be required to consider self from multiple psychological perspectives, including social psychology (social and cultural determinants of identity, stereotypes, prejudice and discrimination), cognitive psychology (memory), and developmental psychology (gender and identity development). Practical skills development is addressed by embedding qualitative research methods addressing research questions which are directly related to the material studied. 

Students are encouraged to develop reflective and critical skills by comparing and contrasting different approaches to self and identity throughout the module. This module aims to introduce students to the critical distinction between realist and social constructivist approaches in psychology in the context of theories of self and identity. This distinction permeates much of psychology and is at the heart of the main methodological approaches in psychology, quantitative and qualitative. The aim is to provide students with the tools and arguments needed for critical analysis of traditional psychological approaches. 

By the end of this module you should be able to...

1. Critically evaluate traditional and social constructivist perspectives related to self and identity development
2. Critically evaluate the respective roles of autobiographical memory and social remembering on identity construction
3. Critically evaluate theory and research on  prejudice and discrimination, think originally about how it can be prevented and communicate strategies in writing
4. Design and conduct qualitative research ethically, analyse qualitative data and communicate research findings in writing

1. Students or early-career professionals in psychology, sociology, or social sciences seeking to deepen their understanding of identity formation from multiple perspectives (social, cognitive, developmental).
2. Researchers or aspiring researchers interested in designing and conducting ethical qualitative research, especially in topics related to identity, prejudice, and discrimination.
3. Educators, trainers, or facilitators who wish to apply psychological insights to foster inclusion, challenge stereotypes, and address discrimination in educational or organisational contexts.
4. HR professionals, diversity & inclusion specialists, and organisational leaders aiming to understand and mitigate bias, promote equity, and improve team dynamics through awareness of social and cultural identity factors.
5. Community and youth workers, counsellors, or social service practitioners who want to better support individuals from diverse backgrounds by understanding the interplay of memory, identity, and social influences.
6. Individuals with an interest in self-awareness and personal growth, particularly those who want to critically examine the role of memory, culture, and social context in shaping identity.

In short, this course is ideal for anyone looking to critically explore how identity is formed, influenced, and expressed, while also building practical research and communication skills applicable across professional and academic settings.

“Facilitator is very experienced and is able to provide practical examples and approaches.” – Pui Yoke, Head of ODOS Group Services, SMU

“Taking on the PFA role can be done by anyone, he surely gave us the confidence. I have learnt that the role of providing Psychological First Aid (PFA) isn’t about solving problems or giving solid solutions. The guidance to the three actions of look, listen and link is very useful for my application.” – Tammy Fan, Lecturer, Nanyang Polytechnic

“Anil is experienced and shared practical techniques on Psychological First Aid (PFA).” – Serene Chiam, Senior Tech Executive, Singapore Polytechnic

“Subject content was relevant and useful. I felt benefited from his background knowledge of the subject. The sections related to the practical skills that were suggested can be applied in real life easily.” – Sanuse Nasir, MOE

“Engaging, fun, and definitely a content expert in the workshop delivered. Role-play, facilitation, case studies/examples were useful to reinforce the learning.” – Muhammad Yusuf, Senior Executive, Duke-NUS Medical School

Anil Singh – Expert in Mental Wellness and Crisis Management

(Master of Social Sciences, National University of Singapore)

Anil Singh is a Senior Associate Lecturer, Trainer, and Academic Coach with over 10 years of experience working in government and private institutions. A dedicated mental wellness advocate, Anil specializes in Psychology, Sociology, and Public Safety & Security. His expertise spans school, workplace, and community settings, where he empowers organizations and individuals to cultivate a culture of mental well-being.

Before transitioning to full-time lecturing, Anil served as a Community Outreach Manager at the National Addictions Management Service (NAMS), Institute of Mental Health (IMH), and as Executive Director at a community drug rehabilitation center. He holds a Master of Social Sciences from NUS, alongside certifications in adult education and professional counseling. With his deep knowledge and engaging teaching style, Anil equips participants with the skills and confidence to support mental wellness and navigate crises effectively.