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Why choose SCU?
Description

Why study the SCU Online Master of Mental Health?

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Research
Excellence in research

Outstanding ratings of 'at world standard' or above in 23 research fields1

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Outstanding student support

#1 in Australia for Education Student Support 1

University
Top 100 Young Universities

Ranked in the top 100 universities in the world that are 50 years old or younger2

Download a course guide

With more detailed information specific to your course and field of study, including:

  • Full course information and entry requirements
  • Tips for online study success
  • Career opportunities and salaries information
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Quick facts

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Duration

2 years
part-time*

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Study mode

100% online

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Intakes

Jan, Mar, May, July, Aug, Oct

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Units

12

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Fees

$2,658 per unit, FEE-HELP available

*Completion time dependent on individual study path and course availability. Please speak to a Student Advisor for more information.

Description

The SCU online Master of Mental Health difference

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Are you thinking about studying a masters degree in mental health? At SCU, we’re cultivating the leaders of tomorrow, today, right in our very own backyard. We aim to provide an exceptional education experience through our unique learning model and innovative online platform. We’re committed to lifelong learning and providing equal access to education for everyone, regardless of background or location. As one of the top universities in the world at only 25 years young, we’re pioneers in online education and have been doing so since 2015. We’re a rising, dynamic university that is proud to be a game changer and leader in education. That’s the SCU Online difference and why you should study an online mental health masters course with us.

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Take control of your study schedule

Have the flexibility to study around shift work, family commitments and other responsibilities so you can manage your own study progress.

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Learn from clinically experienced academics

Developed in collaboration with passionate, expert mental health providers, this course will prepare you to apply contemporary, evidence-based approaches in practice.

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Be prepared for a dynamic industry

Focus on current trends and legislation, and the latest evidence-based approaches, equipping you to handle mental health challenges in an ever-changing landscape.

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Unique learning model

Find the ideal balance between work, life and study through our unique seven-week study units. Apply the knowledge & skills you learn immediately to real-world situations.

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Helping communities thrive

At SCU Online, we stand for our community. We’re  committed to offering a vibrant teaching, learning, research and cultural environment to help you achieve your career goals.

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Unparalleled support

Receive academic and non-academic support to assist with your study from enrolment through to graduation. Have full access to SCU campuses, including the library and other facilities.

Description

How does the online Master of Mental Health work with SCU?

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  • With no exams, you’ll learn through quizzes, videos, interactive presentations and more.
  • Connect with academics and students through online chat platforms and discussion boards.
  • Access support throughout the course, including feedback from a learning coach and a dedicated student success advisor from enrolment through to graduation.
  • Live classes are optional but encouraged for networking, while the course is self-paced.
  • To make the most of your learning experience, we recommend dedicating around 20 hours per week to your studies.
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What you will study
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This unit will expose you to critical exploration and practical application of the core contexts of mental health within the Australian healthcare system. 

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This unit emphasises the life stage and bio-psycho-social contexts specifically related to providing effective engagement and interventions with children, adolescents and older persons. 

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This unit explores the varied roles of a mental health professional in the 21st century. 

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This unit explores the experiences of people with complex mental health presentations, co-morbidity and risk behaviours. 

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This unit introduces you to an evidence-based approach to health practice. 

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Enhance understanding and capability of mental health to ensure patient physical health needs are being addressed within holistic mental health assessment, diagnosis and interventions.

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Develop a deeper knowledge of psychological approaches and models of understanding that influence a consumer taking constructive change that supports recovery. 

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In this unit, you will reflect on your own professional practice and learning, planning strategies to collect, select and reflect on evidence to include in a professional portfolio.

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This unit emphasises on leading the translation and application of knowledge to clinical practice settings.

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Develop knowledge and capabilities in evidence-based and effective talk-based interventions, through a critical analysis of key therapies from behaviourist theory perspectives. 

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Broaden and deepen your understanding of literature analysis and research design in relation to an area relevant to professional practice.

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Analyse the current state of healthcare, while exploring the private and public sectors as well as their social and economic implications

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This unit looks at problem-solving challenges in the private and public sectors, as well as regulated and deregulated systems, comparing Australian review systems against the rest of the world. 

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This unit will guide you to evaluate and critically reflect on leadership to apply that knowledge to drive change and innovation within health and social care. 

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Analyse the role of accountability, as well as evaluate the concepts of professional accountability within organisations.

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This unit will extend theoretical knowledge, in addition to social and emotional skills to improve communication, teamwork and client safety. 

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This unit hones your leadership skills in a clinical learning environment. 

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Explore a diverse range of leadership styles, preparing you for a bright future in leadership or management.

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Explore digital marketing tools and techniques to develop well-structured digital marketing plans and undertake a digital marketing campaign.

In this unit, you will research and develop change strategies, and learn how to adapt.

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This unit looks at the aims and goals of HR and its role in business.

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In this unit, you will study organisations and the individual, interpersonal and group processes and the organisational system.

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This unit covers the foundation elements of managing business projects.

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This unit covers important accounting principles that make up the core of business management.

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Develop effective written and verbal communication skills for business and management.

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Early exit option

We know that plans change, which is why we’ve built flexible completion options into the online Master of Mental Health. If you need to exit early, you could still receive a Graduate Certificate in Mental Health or a Graduate Diploma of Mental Health.

Graduate Certificate
4 Units

Or continue studying

Graduate Diploma
+ 4 units

Or continue studying

Masters Degree
+ 4 Units

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A typical study period at SCU Online
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Typical study period timeline

Next study period

October
2024

Applications close in

21 days

Speak to an Enrolment Advisor to find out more.

Our study periods: Jan, Mar, May, July, Aug, Oct

Late applications may be considered under special circumstances up until the start of O'Week. For more information please speak with a Student Enrolment Advisor.

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Career and salary outcomes

As a Master of Mental Health graduate, you will be equipped with specialist mental health knowledge and skills to act confidently and promote mental wellbeing when faced with the many challenges of mental illness across many different settings. Here’s a quick preview of potential career options and their corresponding salary outcomes:

Mental Health Support Worker

Mental Health Support Worker, typical annual salary: $73,000

Mental Health Nurse

Mental Health Nurse, typical annual salary: $95,000

Disability Support Worker

Disability Support Worker, typical annual salary: $65,000

Youth Worker

Youth Worker, typical annual salary: $75,000

Health Advisor

Health Advisor, typical annual salary: $125,000

Consultant Manager

Consultant Manager, typical annual salary: $165,000

*Salary outcomes captured by Seek.com.au, accurate as of September 2023.

Description

Learning outcomes with a Master of Mental Health degree online

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Holistic mental health perspectives

Gain the skills to develop holistic mental health plans in diverse practical/clinical settings, achieving optimal wellbeing for patients.

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Contemporary trends in mental health

Explore mental health policy, legislation and government funding within today’s Australian healthcare system.

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Develop evidence-based approaches

Build the capacity to analyse and critique the latest mental health research, to better your treatment and intervention plans in diverse practical settings.

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Entry requirements
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To gain entry into the Master of Mental Health program, all applicants must:

  • Have successfully completed a minimum three-year Bachelor qualification, or equivalent, in a health, psychology or social science-related discipline, and;
  • Be proficient in English.

If you are a registered nurse, you could also be eligible for the Master of Mental Health Nursing degree. 

Find out more about Rules Relating to Awards and Specific Award Rules

At SCU Online, we value your past education and work experience, allowing you to potentially reduce the Master of Education’s course length through Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL).

Should you have any relevant professional work experience or academic qualifications that you would like us to acknowledge, please provide as much evidence of this as possible when applying to study the Master of Mental Health online.

Gain credit for your previous experience and graduate even sooner with Advanced Standing. At SCU Online, we proactively assess each student’s prior learning, qualifications and professional experience and provide custom pathways to complete your online masters degree in mental health.

Find out more about applying for advanced standing

Need more information on the entry requirements?

Chat to a Student Enrolment Advisor today via live chat or call us on 1300 863 819 to discover your eligibility.

 

scu ssa at his desk.

Description

Meet the course coordinator

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Dr Richard Lakeman is the course coordinator for the Master of Mental Health and Master of Mental Health Nursing programs, and an Associate Professor at Southern Cross University’s internationally recognised School of Health and Human Sciences. Richard can provide valuable support and guidance to SCU Online Master of Mental Health students through:

  • Hands-on learning: Gain real-world insights into the challenges and nuances of mental health care in a variety of settings with Richard’s 30 years of experience working in the field.
  • Expertise in complex mental health needs: Understand and address the unique challenges faced by individuals with complex mental health needs, especially if you aspire to work in specialised areas of mental health.
  • Mentoring: Receive one-on-one guidance and support in your academic and career journey. As your course coordinator, Richard can offer career advice, share insights and help you develop the necessary skills to excel in mental health leadership roles in a variety of community settings.
  • A holistic approach: Learn about the importance of considering psychological and emotional aspects alongside medical interventions in mental health care.

scu coordinator

Description

What our students say about our online mental health postgraduate course

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Victoria - MMH - testimonial
Master of Mental Health student Victoria.

Make time and do (this course). It is worth it and will help save the lives of those struggling. To be fully equipped is worth it and the patients will trust you more with their lives to recover from a relapse.

Victoria Koriaty

Online Graduate Diploma in Mental Health

Increase in knowledge and confidence
Master of Mental Health Nursing student
  • The graduates reported an increase in confidence and knowledge after completing the course, which led to a change in their views and attitudes towards service users. They appreciated the examination of psychotherapies and motivational interviewing, and applied their newly acquired skills and knowledge in their practice. The course was found to have improved their clinical practice.
  • Most respondents reported that the content of the course drew their attention, appeared professional and had a critical focus.
  • One remarked that they had a passion for mental health, and this course appeared to offer the opportunity to expand their personal knowledge of mental health care.
Description

Related courses

Subsections

Graduate Diploma
of Mental Health

Intakes: Jan, Mar, May, July, Aug, Oct
Duration: 16 months part-time

View course

Graduate Certificate
in Mental Health

Intakes: Jan, Mar, May, July, Aug, Oct
Duration: 8 months part-time

View course

Title
Frequently asked questions
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If you're wondering why study a Master of Mental Health? Below are some of the key skills you'll walk away with.

  • Apply what you learn immediately: Focus on evidence-based approaches and get the chance to pose a question relevant to your practice and follow proper research methodology to arrive at a solution.
  • Study current and comprehensive course material: Increase your capability to navigate Australia's complex mental healthcare systems.
  • Become a well-rounded mental health care provider: Work your way through varied units to extend and enhance your mental healthcare skillset.
  • Learn from clinically experienced mental health academics: The course has been developed in consultation with passionate mental health providers with a wealth of clinical experience.

There is a growing need in our Australian healthcare system for highly skilled professionals who understand the complexities of mental health and can offer well-informed mental health clinical interventions. Southern Cross University’s online Master of Mental Health will enhance your understanding of mental health and psychology while building the skills needed to effectively respond to patients experiencing mild, moderate and severe mental health challenges.

This course is designed to prepare graduates for work within a range of health settings and disciplines. You will gain practical skills and specialised theoretical knowledge to extend or enhance your role in mental health.

Our flexible, accelerated course gives you 24-hour access to your coursework so you can fit your studies around your busy schedule.

You can engage with lecturers and other students no matter where you are – or where they are. Southern Cross University online studies also include:

  • Interactive learning environment includes video, audio, forums and practical exercises;
  • Coursework involves real-time engagement and self-directed study;
  • Seven-week study periods in which to complete each unit;
  • The ability to focus on a single unit every study period and as many as six units every year;
  • One-on-one support from your personal Success Advisor throughout the year.

As this course is delivered 100% online, you can be located anywhere and undertake the Master of Mental Health, provided you meet the entry criteria. Different mental health courses in Melbourne, even throughout Victoria and other Australian states have different study requirements - like on-campus attendance, however with SCU Online, our students don't need to worry about that.

To gain your online Master of Mental Health degree, you will complete 11 core units and 1 elective unit. Coursework develops the skills required to effectively respond to challenges across a diverse range of mental health fields.

Learn more about the units of our Master of Mental Health here.

Mental health issues can affect anyone, and careers in mental health call for people with a diversity of backgrounds and experience, the most crucial factors being empathy, patience and a genuine desire to help others. With these core skills and values, the right training can take you a long way.

The current demand for trained professionals means that there are opportunities for work all over Australia. In particular in regional areas.

To find out more, take a look at our blog, 'Professional Pathways and Jobs for Mental Health Workers'.

Below are some of the key learning outcomes of our Master of Mental Health.

  • Holistic mental health treatment: Gain the skills to be a well-rounded mental health professional with the ability to work in a variety of mental health roles.
  • Contemporary mental health focus: Learn from clinically active academics and gain a contemporary understanding of emerging trends in mental health care.
  • Develop an evidence-based practice: Develop skills through evidence-based theories and knowledge that can be applied immediately in practice or hospital setting.

We may recognise and grant credit for past education or qualifications in a process called advanced standing. If you're eligible for advanced standing, this can impact the number of units you need to study, reducing the time and cost of your overall degree. To find out more about advanced standing, get in touch with one of our Enrolment Advisors on 1300 863 819.

Advanced standing focuses primarily on receiving credit from previous academic study, such as an undergraduate or postgraduate degree, while RPL encompasses a wider range of learning experiences as well as professional work experience. Both processes provide the opportunity for you to have your prior learning recognised, thereby reducing the amount of time and effort required to complete the online masters degree in mental health.