Mental Health Science

This postgraduate qualification is for those with an academic or professional interest in mental health science and this discipline’s biological and psychological underpinnings. It equips you with the necessary skills to evaluate the current literature critically, discuss contemporary issues and communicate an understanding of key topics in mental health science. You’ll develop the skills and knowledge relevant for pursuing a research career, for employment, and informing professional practice.

Modules

To gain this qualification, you need 120 credits as follows:

120 credits from:

Compulsory module/Credits

• Introduction to mental health science (S826)

• Core topics in mental health science: psychosis and dementia (SD816) 60



Or, the discontinued module SD815.



You should note that the University’s unique study rule applies to this qualification. This means that you must include at least 40 credits from OU modules that have not been counted in any other OU qualification that has previously been awarded to you.

You may register for your first module before providing evidence you meet the entry requirements; however, your place is not guaranteed until you provide this.



You must have either:

• a UK honours degree (or equivalent) in a science-related subject – including psychological sciences, health science, mental health nursing, medicine, or a BPS-accredited psychology degree. Ideally, your degree included the study of FHEQ level 5 and 6 neuroscience or biological/cognitive psychology

• evidence of other study or experience you believe equips you to take this qualification.



If you have questions about your suitability, contact the MSc Admissions Panel.



We recommend you have:

• a minimum IELTS (International English Language Testing System) score of 7.0.



Our free course, Succeeding in postgraduate study, helps you develop the skills and confidence to manage the requirements and demands of postgraduate study.

2 years part-time study.



How long it takes

Most students study the Postgraduate Diploma in Mental Health Science part-time, completing 60 credits over one year. Typically, this means 18 study hours each week.



You must complete the Postgraduate Diploma in Mental Health Science within four years.

See Course Web Page link for next start date.

Career relevance

This qualification is directly relevant to research and employment in the fields of medical and psychological sciences (neuroscience, psychology, health sciences). It will develop the critical skills and knowledge that are relevant to employment within the health sector, life sciences, medical and related fields, and to inform and strengthen professional practice.



The programme is designed for those seeking to expand their knowledge and understanding of mental health from an interdisciplinary ‘biopsychosocial’ (neuroscience, psychology and health science) perspective. It is suitable for those who wish to move on to doctoral training, as well as those who are working in clinical roles who wish to further inform and strengthen their professional practice.



This qualification is suitable:

• for those with a personal or professional interest in mental health science, who wish to develop an interdisciplinary understanding of mental health conditions, and cultivate key practical and professional skills required for employment and to strengthen professional practice



• for those who are working in or planning to work in this field (practitioners or policy makers)



• for those seeking employment as graduate research workers



• for those wishing to pursue research careers (and careers in academia) and progress to PhD study (e.g. doctoral research in neuroscience, psychology, health sciences and fields allied to medicine)



• as a stepping stone to a career in clinical psychology, or pursuing a doctorate in clinical psychology



• as professional development or for clinical roles in the NHS or other healthcare settings (including mental health nursing, behavioural therapy, psychological counselling etc.) that require specific expertise in this field (focusing on mood and affective disorders, schizophrenia and bipolar disorders, mild cognitive impairment, Alzheimer’s disease and the dementias)



• for graduates who are established in their field of work, and use the qualification as evidence of professional development (e.g. for promotion to more senior positions, or who may wish to take their career in a more specialist direction).



• for clinicians (including GPs) who wish to specialise further in this area (Mental Health) as part of their continuing professional development



• for others who may wish to take this course and move on to a leadership role or more senior positions in healthcare settings or policy-related roles in local or national organisations, or to move into the private sector (scientific publishing, education, teaching and advocacy, human resources, occupational health, management, consultancy or roles in pharmaceutical/life sciences industries).