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Open University in Ireland

Mental Health Science

This postgraduate qualification is designed for those with an academic or professional interest in mental health science and the biological and psychological underpinnings of this discipline. It equips students with the necessary skills to critically evaluate the current literature, discuss contemporary issues and communicate a critical understanding of key topics in mental health science. Those who qualify from this programme, will have developed the skills and knowledge that are relevant for pursuing a research career, for employment, and to inform professional practice.

Key features of the course
Develops knowledge and understanding of key topics in mental health science (stress, anxiety, depression, psychosis and dementia)
Explores current issues and research at the forefront of mental health science
Develops skills that are essential for a critical understanding of mental health science and relevant to professional practice.

Entry requirements

Entry to this qualification will typically require a minimum of an honours degree (or equivalent qualification) in science or a science-related subject (including psychological sciences, health science, mental health nursing or medicine).

If you have other study or experience that you believe equips you to take this qualification you can still apply, but must supply evidence of that study or experience. Your case will be referred to our MSc Admissions Panel. For further advice, email the Science Postgraduate Team.

Please note that this qualification is in two stages. Introduction to mental health science (S826) (Stage 1) should be studied before Core topics in mental health science: psychosis and dementia (SD816) (Stage 2).

Duration

17 months - 4 years.

You can complete this qualification within 18 months, and up to a maximum of four years of starting the first module.

Number of credits

120 credits

Careers or further progression

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.

There is more information about how OU study can improve your employability in the OUs Employability Statement from our Careers Advisory Service. You can also look at our OU study and your career pages to find out about potential career opportunities related to OU subject areas.

Further enquiries

Tel: (01) 678 5399
Fax: (01) 678 5442
Email: ireland@open.ac.uk

Subjects taught

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

Compulsory modules

Credits Next start

Introduction to mental health science (S826) 60 27 Jan 2018
Core topics in mental health science: psychosis and dementia (SD816) (planned for October 2017) 60

Modules should be studied in the order listed above.

You should note that the Universitys 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.

Comment

On completion
On successful completion of the required modules you can be awarded a Postgraduate Diploma in Mental Health Science entitling you to use the letters PGDip MHS (Open) after your name. You will have the opportunity of being presented at a degree ceremony.

Course web page

Link to course fee

Key information

Qualification letters:

PGDip MHS (Open)

Qualifications:

Postgraduate Diploma at UK Level 7

Attendance Types:

Distance

Counties:

Dublin

Apply to:

Course provider

Course web page

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