Advanced Mental Health Practice

Advanced Mental Health Practice is a postgraduate programme designed to equip healthcare professionals with the advanced skills, knowledge, and competencies necessary to provide high-quality mental health care across diverse settings. This MSc course focuses on developing a comprehensive understanding of mental health issues, clinical assessment, evidence-based interventions, and the latest practices in mental health support. The programme is suitable for practitioners such as nurses, social workers, psychologists, and other healthcare providers who aim to enhance their expertise in mental health care delivery. Throughout the course, students will engage with contemporary theories and research methods, gaining critical insights into mental health challenges, risk management, and the application of innovative therapeutic approaches. The curriculum incorporates a mix of theoretical learning, practical training, and workplace-based assessments to ensure that graduates are well-prepared to handle complex mental health cases with confidence and sensitivity. Emphasis is placed on person-centered care, ethical practice, and interprofessional collaboration, reflecting the holistic approach needed in mental health services today. The programme also offers opportunities for students to undertake research projects or practice development initiatives, enabling them to contribute to the advancement of mental health practice. Completion of the MSc in Advanced Mental Health Practice can lead to career progression in clinical, managerial, or academic roles within mental health services. Delivered by experienced academics and practitioners, the course combines flexible learning options with industry-relevant content, making it accessible for working professionals. Whether aiming for specialist roles in mental health teams or seeking to influence policy and practice, students will gain the confidence and expertise required to make a meaningful difference in the lives of individuals experiencing mental health difficulties.

Advanced Mental Health Practice at Bournemouth University is designed to equip healthcare professionals with the advanced knowledge, skills, and competencies necessary to deliver high-quality mental health services. This comprehensive program focuses on equipping practitioners with a deep understanding of complex mental health issues, evidence-based interventions, and innovative approaches to care. Throughout the course, students will explore the latest developments in mental health research, policies, and clinical practice, enabling them to apply theoretical insights to real-world scenarios effectively.

The program covers a wide range of topics, including advanced assessment and diagnostic skills, therapeutic interventions, risk management, and person-centered care approaches. It emphasizes the importance of multi-disciplinary teamwork and interprofessional collaboration in providing holistic mental health support. Students will engage in practical training, case studies, and simulations to develop their clinical reasoning and decision-making abilities. The curriculum is designed to foster critical thinking and reflective practice, encouraging students to evaluate their own skills and the effectiveness of various intervention strategies.

This degree also aims to prepare practitioners for leadership roles within mental health services by developing necessary managerial and organizational skills. It integrates legal, ethical, and cultural considerations relevant to mental health practice, ensuring that graduates are well-prepared to work within diverse and complex environments. The program's structure allows for flexible learning options, including part-time study, to accommodate working professionals. Upon successful completion, graduates will be equipped to work as advanced practitioners, specialists, or leaders in mental health settings, contributing positively to patient outcomes and service development.

Overall, Bournemouth University's Advanced Mental Health Practice program is dedicated to fostering expert practitioners who are committed to evidence-based practice, compassionate care, and continuous professional development in the mental health sector. The program offers a rigorous, comprehensive education that combines theoretical knowledge with practical application, preparing students to meet the challenges of modern mental health care confidently.

The Advanced Mental Health Practice programme at Bournemouth University is designed to provide postgraduate students with the advanced skills, knowledge, and competencies necessary for working effectively in complex mental health settings. This programme typically requires applicants to hold an appropriate recognised professional qualification, such as a bachelor's degree in nursing, social work, psychology, or a related health discipline, and to have significant relevant professional experience in mental health practice. It aims to enhance practitioners' clinical expertise, leadership abilities, and understanding of evidence-based interventions for individuals experiencing mental health issues.

The course structure often includes a combination of theoretical modules, practical placements, and research components. Students study advanced assessment and intervention strategies, mental health law and ethics, service user involvement, and contemporary issues in mental health practice. Emphasis is placed on developing critical thinking skills, reflective practice, and interprofessional collaboration. The programme may also require the submission of a dissertation or a major project, demonstrating research capability and application of knowledge to real-world practice challenges.

Entry requirements typically specify a minimum of a relevant undergraduate degree and relevant work experience in mental health settings. Professional registration with bodies such as the Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC), Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC), or equivalent is usually mandatory. Applicants are often expected to demonstrate their ability to work independently, their commitment to continued professional development, and their capacity to undertake postgraduate-level study.

The duration of the programme generally ranges from one to two years full-time or part-time study options are available to accommodate working professionals. The university emphasizes a student-centered approach, incorporating case studies, simulations, and collaborative projects to prepare graduates for leadership roles in mental health care. Upon successful completion, students are equipped to pursue advanced clinical roles, consultancy positions, or academic careers within the mental health sector. The programme aligns with national and international mental health initiatives, aiming to improve service quality and patient outcomes through highly trained practitioners.

Want to improve your English level for admission?

Prepare for the program requirements with English Online by the British Council.

• ✔️ Flexible study schedule
• ✔️ Experienced teachers
• ✔️ Certificate upon completion

📘 Recommended for students with an IELTS level of 6.0 or below.

Enroll in the course

The Advanced Mental Health Practice program at Bournemouth University offers a range of financing options to support students throughout their studies. The program tuition fees vary depending on the student's residency status. For UK students, the current annual tuition fee is approximately £9,250, which is consistent with other postgraduate health-related programs at Bournemouth University. International students typically pay higher tuition fees, around £15,500 per year, reflecting the university's international fee schedule. These fees cover a comprehensive curriculum that includes practical placements, research activities, and academic resources essential for advanced mental health practice training.

Students are encouraged to explore various funding opportunities to help finance their education. The UK government provides postgraduate loans for eligible students, with up to £11,836 available to supporting living expenses and tuition fees, making postgraduate study more accessible. These loans are repayable after graduation based on income thresholds. Additionally, Bournemouth University offers scholarships and bursaries for deserving students, which can substantially reduce the financial burden. These awards are often based on academic merit, relevant experience, or financial need, and applicants are advised to check the university's scholarship portal for current opportunities and application deadlines.

Furthermore, many students seek funding through employer sponsorships, especially since postgraduate mental health training is highly relevant for NHS practitioners and healthcare providers. Employers may offer financial support or study leave to employees pursuing this specialized qualification, recognizing its value in enhancing clinical skills. Private sponsorship and external funding bodies also provide grants for postgraduate health studies, which students should research based on their geographic location and eligibility criteria.

Students are also advised to consider part-time work options arranged through the university or in the local area to supplement their income during studies, particularly for international students who often face additional visa conditions. Bournemouth University supports flexible working arrangements and provides careers guidance to help students balance academic commitments with employment opportunities.

Finally, prospective students are recommended to contact the university's financial aid office and visit the official Bournemouth University website for detailed, up-to-date information on tuition fees, available scholarships, funding applications, and financial planning advice. Securing appropriate funding is a crucial step in enabling students to focus on their academic and clinical development within the Advanced Mental Health Practice program, ensuring they gain the skills necessary to advance their careers in mental health services.

The Advanced Mental Health Practice program at Bournemouth University is designed to equip health and social care professionals with the advanced skills and knowledge necessary to deliver high-quality mental health services. This postgraduate course is tailored for practitioners seeking to enhance their expertise in mental health assessment, intervention, and leadership. The curriculum emphasizes a comprehensive understanding of mental health issues, including psychological, social, and biological perspectives, enabling students to develop holistic approaches to patient care.

The program covers a wide range of topics such as evidence-based practices, ethical considerations, legislative frameworks, and innovative interventions in mental health. Students will engage with both theoretical and practical components, including clinical placements, case studies, and research projects. This blended learning approach allows practitioners to apply their learning directly to their professional settings. The program aims to foster advanced clinical decision-making, critical thinking, and reflective practice, preparing graduates for roles such as mental health team leaders, specialists, or consultants.

Bournemouth University prides itself on its strong links with NHS trust partners and mental health organizations, providing students with valuable networking opportunities and exposure to real-world challenges in mental health services. The teaching team comprises experienced academics and practitioners actively involved in mental health research and practice. The course also encourages interprofessional collaboration, recognizing the importance of teamwork across disciplines such as nursing, social work, psychology, and occupational therapy.

Graduates of the Advanced Mental Health Practice program are expected to demonstrate autonomous professional practice, contribute to service development, and support clinical governance initiatives. The program is suitable for registered health and social care professionals with relevant experience, aiming to advance their careers and improve the quality of mental health outcomes for service users. The qualification enables practitioners to meet the increasingly complex demands of modern mental health services while remaining compliant with current legal and professional standards.