Course summary

Poor mental health affects a wide range of factors including our physical health, our relationships and our desire to take part in the world around us. Research highlights that poor mental health is an inevitable consequence of inequalities, adverse childhood experiences and trauma. How can we best respond to people whose lives are most affected by these factors? What are the key challenges faced by mental health service users and service providers? Students will learn about the importance of trauma-informed responses and responses that empower and support an individual in realizing their capabilities. We will explore the debates about diagnostic systems; dependence on the use of medications and the scarcity of talking therapies for people in mental distress. How can we better plan for an inclusive mental health system that ensures there is no health without mental health? The MSc in Mental Health will provide structured learning to support the development of informed, inclusive and skilled practitioners and researchers. The course does not lead to a professional qualification (such as nursing, or counselling) but it does equip you for employment and progression in the mental health field. It would also benefit anyone likely to encounter people with mental health problems in the course of their daily work (e.g. housing officers, teachers, advice workers). The course covers current issues in mental health provision both in the UK and in a wider international context. You will benefit from an exciting and challenging educational experience provided by academics, practitioners and service users. Everyone contributing to the programme has expertise in some aspect of mental health, either through personal experience, research or work experience. We make use of a blended learning approach so that students can continue their learning outside the classroom. Learning and teaching includes interactive seminars and lectures, self- directed learning, presentations and discussions. Successful completion of each stage of the course could lead to either an MSc, PGDip or PGCert award.