World Sleep Academy is organized into three tiers: Tier 1, Tier 2, and Tier 3. The tiers progress from introductory content in sleep science and medicine to advanced practice. The entire program takes one year to complete. The learning outcomes of completing the World Sleep Academy curriculum are the following:
- Learn the underlying causes of sleep disorders
- Develop your basic sleep medicine diagnostic capabilities
- Network with other sleep experts around the world
- Understand treatment options for sleep disorders
- Learn the basics of a sleep medicine practice
Program Overview
Watch a 10-minute introduction from the Academy director, Lourdes DelRosso, MD, PhD. Learn about the program’s goals, faculty, and curriculum – and meet Dr. DelRosso!
Learning Format
Most participation in World Sleep Academy is asynchronous, but there are weekly opportunities to interact live with the lead faculty and guests. Over the course of each Tier, you will receive original manuscripts on Tier topics written by international experts, videos, lectures, and other learning activities. You will be expected to participate in discussion online with your cohort and the lead faculty.
2026 Tuition and Fees
Each Tier of World Sleep Academy has an associated tuition fee.
The WSA is affordable for people from all over the world, with a price structure based on where the applicant’s location.
Tuition fees for World Sleep Academy are structured around the World Bank income rating of the country in which the applicant lives and works. Find each country’s World Bank income rating here: The World by Income and Region.
There are three tuition levels:
– Students from low and lower-middle income countries.
– Students from upper middle income countries.
– Students from high income countries
| Tier 1 | Tier 2 | Tier 3 | |
| Low/Lower Middle Income Countries | $100 USD | $200 USD | $100 USD |
| Upper Middle Income Countries | $400 USD | $800 USD | $400 USD |
| High Income Countries | $800 USD | $1350 USD | $800 USD |
Tier Structure of World Sleep Academy
Each of the three Tiers of World Sleep Academy is described in the overview below. Find specific breakdowns of each individual topic here: World Sleep Academy Curriculum.
The World Sleep Academy program is designed for working professionals to complete. Breaks are scheduled into the program and the online learning platform makes learning activities simpler to complete at your own pace and time. Participation in live, online events is highly encouraged because there is much value in connecting person-to-person with our guests, contributors, and faculty, but it is not required.
Note: Dates below are subject to change.
Tier 1: Sleep science, technology, and patient evaluation
January – March 2026
This introductory tier is for people who do not have much knowledge about sleep but want to know more. You will gain a basic knowledge of the sleep field. The following topics are covered:
- Sleep science
- Sleep technology
- Evaluation of patients with sleep disorders
- Basic sleep study practice
- Leadership skills
Tier 2: Sleep disorders
April – August 2026
The intermediate tier is for people who have a basic knowledge of sleep research and practice. You will acquire a working knowledge of the main types of sleep disorders. The following topics are covered:
- Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA)
- Non-OSA sleep-related breathing disorders
- Non-invasive ventilation
- Hypersomnias
- Sleep-related movement disorders
- Parasomnias
- Insomnia
- Psychological aspects of sleep
- Circadian disorders
- Pediatric sleep concerns
- Intermediate sleep study practice
- Leadership skills
Tier 3: Advanced Pediatric Track and/or Diagnosis and Treatment of Insomnia
September – December 2026
Tier 3 offers two different tracks for World Sleep Academy students: (1) pediatric sleep care or (2) insomnia diagnosis and treatment. Students can choose either track in Tier 3. They can choose both tracks.