T-CERT (Training Community-Engaged Research Teams) prepares graduate students, mid-career researchers, healthcare professionals, and nurse scientists to design, evaluate, and implement evidence-based interventions that improve health in communities.
Participants will gain comprehensive knowledge and skills to understand social drivers in healthcare research; and integrate multidisciplinary approaches and diverse settings into research experiences. With guidance from expert mentors, participants will develop a research proposal addressing a community health priority and complete a Capstone Research Project focused on improving health outcomes. They will also strengthen their ability to collaborate across disciplines and communicate research findings effectively. Participants will present their Capstone Research Project in person at the WesternU-CGU Community-Engaged Health Summit.
There is no cost to participants. Travel, accommodations, and meals for the 2027 WesternU-CGU Community-Engaged Health Summit are covered.
T-CERT is supported by a National Institutes of Health (NIH) R25 grant, which funds innovative educational activities that complement traditional research training programs.
2026-27 Program Information
Through flexible, online learning from dedicated faculty at Western University of Health Sciences (WesternU), expert faculty mentorship through Claremont Graduate University (CGU), and collaboration with peers potentially from across the country, participants will build the knowledge, experience, and confidence to strengthen community partnerships and translate research into meaningful, lasting impact. |  |
Online Course Dates:*
- Unit 1: September 14 - October 9, 2026
- Unit 2: October 12 - November 6, 2026
- Unit 3: November 9 - December 11, 2026
- Unit 4: January 11 - February 19, 2027
- Unit 5: March 1 - April 16, 2027
- Unit 6: April 26 - July 30, 2027 (Proposal development)
Commitment: Participants must commit up to four hours per week to asynchronous online learning and meet with their assigned mentor for at least one hour each month. Upon successful completion of the program, participants will be invited to attend the WesternU-CGU Community-Engaged Health Summit during the week of September 13, 2027* and must be available to present in person at the event.
Space is limited. Please apply early.
*Dates are subject to change
Contact
For more information, email TCERT@westernu.edu