Online Certificated Courses > Certificate in Vocal Pedagogy

Certificate in Foundations of Vocology with Adam Roberts

This 30-hour Vocology Cohort Intensive provides a comprehensive overview of basic vocal anatomy, physiology, and theories of voice production & perception, fundamentals of vocal health, pathology, evaluation, performance, and habilitation of the speaking and singing voice, and a survey of research, resources, and professional opportunities. Each week, advanced students contribute to cohort-centred learning with additional resources, discussion facilitation, and critical analysis. The course assessment will also be useful for those who wish to prepare for the PAVA recognised designation.

Summer Immersive

15 session course

Mondays and Fridays from 6th July - 24th August 2026

5 pm - 7 pm (BST)

All sessions will be recorded for catch-up at a later date if you cannot attend live.

  • Fully online
  • Live classes led by Adam Roberts
  • Classes will be recorded and available to watch on catch-up if you cannot attend live - this won't affect your ability to obtain certification
  • Access to our virtual learning environment (Canvas) for additional learning resources and content
  • Accredited by The Institute of Training and Occupational Learning
  • Upon successful completion of the course, you will receive an official ITOL-accredited certificate, a badge for your website/social media and a profile on our student page

Course cost: £995 

Overview

 

This 30-hour Vocology Cohort Intensive provides a comprehensive overview of basic vocal anatomy, physiology, and theories of voice production & perception, fundamentals of vocal health, pathology, evaluation, performance, and habilitation of the speaking and singing voice, and a survey of research, resources, and professional opportunities. Each week, advanced students contribute to cohort-centred learning with additional resources, discussion facilitation, and critical analysis.

 

 

 

Adam Roberts

Course Tutor: Adam Roberts

 

This course is fully accredited by The Institute of Training and Occupational Learning (ITOL).

Following successful completion of the course and a comprehensive examination, you will receive an official ITOL-accredited Certificate in Foundations of Vocology, a badge for your website/social media and a profile on our student page.

 

Mondays and Fridays from 6th July - 24th August 2026 (see full schedule below)

Class Times: 5 pm - 7 pm (BST)

All sessions are recorded for catch-up at a later date.

Who is it for?

The course is for anyone who is looking to upskill their portfolio. It provides a standalone qualification to boost both knowledge, application and credibility.

It is also useful for those who wish to prepare for the PAVA recognised designation. The process involves collating an extensive portfolio demonstrating credibility in your practice. It also requires the completion of an exam. This course aims to cover the broad syllabus for those who would like to prepare and practice for the examination.

Upon successful completion, you will receive an official ITOL-accredited certificate, a badge for your website/social media and a profile on our student page.

The Pan American Vocology Association (PAVA) is dedicated to advancing the field of voice science and practice. Their main activities include:

  1. Education and Training: PAVA offers various educational programs, workshops, and certifications to help voice professionals enhance their skills and stay updated with the latest advancements in vocology.
  2. Research Support: They promote and support research in voice science, encouraging innovative studies that contribute to a deeper understanding of voice production, health, and rehabilitation.
  3. Community Building: PAVA provides a platform for voice professionals to connect, share knowledge, and collaborate, fostering a strong and supportive community.
  4. Advocacy and Standards: The organization works to set high standards for voice practice and advocates for the recognition and importance of vocology in various professional settings.
  5. Resource Provision: PAVA offers a wealth of resources, including publications, research papers, and practical tools, to support voice practitioners in their work.

Supporting the Pan American Vocology Association (PAVA) aligns well with the Voice Study Centre's goals and values. We support PAVA in its mission through:

  1. Shared Commitment to Excellence: Both organizations are dedicated to promoting high standards in voice practice. By supporting PAVA, the Voice Study Centre can help further advance best practices and innovative research in vocology. We host a wide range of PAVA members and PAVA recognised Vocologists as we draw on their knowledge and expertise.
  2. Enhancing Professional Development: PAVA offers a range of educational conferences and events that can benefit the wide ranging Voice Study Centre's student base. Supporting PAVA can provide access to cutting-edge research and resources, helping voice professionals stay at the forefront of their field.
  3. Fostering a Strong Community: PAVA's efforts to build a network of voice professionals align with the Voice Study Centre's goal of fostering a supportive and collaborative community. By supporting PAVA, the Voice Study Centre can help strengthen this network and facilitate valuable connections among voice practitioners. The Voice Study Centre provides scaffolding for the progression of our field practitioners and academics. We provide a spectrum of elite professionals to inspire newcomers and further the field of voice through co-collaboration.
  4. Advocacy and Recognition: PAVA's work in advocating for the recognition and importance of vocology is synergistic with Voice Study Centre's efforts to elevate the field. Supporting PAVA can help amplify these advocacy efforts and contribute to the broader recognition of voice professionals' contributions.

 

Listen to Ed Reisert discuss the PAVA Recognised Vocologist designation during a guest appearance during the last Certificate in Foundations of Vocology course:

 

Syllabus

Date Week Session Content

6th July

1

Principles and Domains of Vocology
  • Overview of Vocology: Introduction to the field, its importance, and its applications.
  • Domains: Exploration of vocology’s various domains, including voice science, habilitation, pedagogy, performance, speech-language pathology, laryngology, and more.

10th July

2

Introductory Anatomy and Physiology of Voice: Part I
  • Anatomy 1: Basic structures involved in voice production, including the larynx, vocal tract, and respiratory system.
  • Physiology 1: How these structures function together to produce, filter, and transmit sound.

13th July

3

Introductory Anatomy and Physiology of Voice: Part II
  • Anatomy 2: Detailed study of the muscles, cartilages, and nerves involved in voice production.
  • Physiological Processes: In-depth look at the biomechanics of voice production.

17th July

4

Foundations of Voice Science, Perception, and Motor Learning: Part I
  • Voice Science 1: Fundamental principles of acoustics and how they relate to voice.
  • Perception: How we perceive voice and sound.
  • Motor Learning: How the brain and body learn and adapt in vocal contexts.

20th July

5

Foundations of Voice Science, Perception, and Motor Learning: Part II
  • Voice Science 2: More complex concepts in vocal acoustics.
  • Perception Studies: Research on voice perception.
  • Motor Learning Theories: Detailed exploration of motor learning theories and their applications to voice training.

24th July

6

Introduction to Voice Pathology and Vocal Health: Part I
  • Voice Pathology 1: Common voice disorders and their causes.
  • Vocal Health: Strategies for maintaining a healthy voice.

27th July

7

Introduction to Voice Pathology and Vocal Health: Part II
  • Voice Pathology 2: In-depth study of specific voice disorders.
  • Treatment and Prevention: Approaches to treating and preventing voice disorders.

31st July

8

Basics of Voice Evaluation and Analysis
  • Evaluation Techniques: Methods for assessing voice quality and function.
  • Analysis Tools: Instruments, tools, and technologies used in voice analysis.

3rd August

9

Fundamentals of Speaking and Singing Voice Habilitation
  • Speaking Voice: Techniques for improving the speaking voice.
  • Singing Voice: Methods for training and enhancing the singing voice.

7th August

10

Overview of Music Education, Choral and Ensemble Vocalization, and Performance Pedagogy
  • Music Education: Principles of teaching music and voice.
  • Choral and Ensemble: Techniques for working with groups of singers.
  • Performance Pedagogy: Strategies for teaching performance skills.

10th August

11

Survey of Vocology Research
  • Research Methods: Introduction to research methodologies in vocology.
  • Current Studies: Overview of recent research findings in the field.

14th August

12

Vocology Resources
  • Literature: Key texts and publications in vocology.
  • Organizations: Important professional organizations and resources.

17th August

13

Introduction to Professional Engagement and the Pan American Vocology Association's PAVA-RV Distinction
  • Professional Engagement: How to engage with the vocology community.
  • PAVA-RV Distinction: Understanding the Pan American Vocology Association's Recognized Vocologist distinction.

21st August

14

Comprehensive Review: Part I
  • Review: Recap of the first half of the course.
  • Preparation: Strategies for preparing for the final exam.

24th August

15

Comprehensive Review: Part II
  • Review: Recap of the second half of the course.
  • Preparation: Final preparations for the exam.

Assessment

Comprehensive exam covering all course material.

The mini assignments throughout the course comprise a total of 250 possible points, for a grand total of 500 possible points between the coursework and final exam. In order to achieve the Foundations of Vocology certificate, a student must attain at least 325 of these points.

Course Details

Where will the course take place?

Online

What time will the course take place?

This 30-hour course will run over 15 dates, and you can attend the sessions in real-time or watch the recordings on catch-up.

Cost: £995

Course Dates:

Mondays and Fridays from 6th July to 24th August

Class Times: 5 pm - 7 pm (BST)

Course Tutor: Adam Roberts

Testimonials

This course is amazing. I love how informative it is. Thoroughly enjoying it. Adam Roberts delivers so well!

Adam’s vocology course offers an inclusive and inspiring learning environment. His expertise in science and “real-life” singing and teaching are truly inspiring. The workload of this class is keeping me both quite challenged and engaged.
The Voice Study Centre provides accessible, high-quality classes, and this certainly won’t be the last one I attend.

This course is a must-join for all voice pedagogues. Although 15 weeks is too short to go in-depth on such a broad topic, Adam provides useful resources and pointers for further study on our areas of interest. Between Adam and the fellow participants was such a vast pool of knowledge and experience in vocology. That makes the discussions during the sessions the most valuable part of the course.

The Foundations of Vocology course provides a great overview of all the topics that fall under the broad scope of voice science and habilitation. I like that every topic was introduced in enough detail to have a general understanding of the field, with the option to dive deeper into specific areas of interest with the help of additional resources. I also appreciate how short assignments throughout the course help engage with the material to gain better comprehension and make connections between the different approaches presented and our own research and practice.

As a starting vocal coach I had been looking for courses to support my work. When I stumbled upon this Foundation in Vocology course it sparked my interest and I decided to apply. The course has not only given me a lot of insight into the science behind sound but also provided me with a platform to connect with other people in the field.
It covers the foundations by getting into what defines Vocology, providing a good base whether you are looking for resources or a gateway into things such as becoming a PAVA member. It has given me more confidence as a vocal coach. I am looking forward to applying some of these methods I've been introduced to as well as taking it as an opportunity to learn about them.

I have found the Certificate in Vocology course extremely useful. Adam is an excellent facilitator, and he has a wonderful way of encouraging discussion while still keeping us on topic. Though he is clearly highly knowledgeable, he encourages an environment where we are all on a journey together, so I feel completely comfortable asking questions and interacting honestly without judgement. And, even though all the content is made available after the class, I have prioritised live attendance in my weekly schedule simply because the discussions are so valuable. As a vocal coach, being able to access information on a wide variety of habilitation topics in a way that is useful to my practice has been utterly invaluable. I hope we see more vocology practice and practitioners in the UK in the next few years.

Request a Prospectus

Interested?

If you would like to learn more about the course please complete the form below or email us at info@voicestudycentre.com

Book Your Place

Book Online Today!

Enter your coupon code and hit apply before proceeding to payment
Cookies Consent

This site uses cookies to make improvements and aid marketing based on usage data. If you are happy with this, please click 'Accept', otherwise you can manage your cookie settings by clicking 'Manage Cookies'.