England

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Accessibility statement
With mental health issues affecting around one in four people, the rise in demand for skilled workers to support those with diagnosed conditions is set to continue.
Whether you’re interested in working directly in the care or treatment of those experiencing mental health issues, or contributing to the development and management of services which support them, there are opportunities to work in a range of sectors, including:
The skillsets required vary, and there are different pathways, so take the time to do thorough research into roles that interest you to support a course choice that is best suited to your ambitions.
You’ll find valuable information about how to plan your career and secure your next steps on our Careers site.
Our courses offer the opportunity to qualify in a specific profession, such as the BSc (Honours) Nursing (Mental Health) and the BSc (Honours) Counselling and Foundation degree in Counselling. We also have courses which provide foundation knowledge and skills relevant to a range of mental health careers, offering access to job opportunities or the opportunity to take further study or vocational training to qualify for some professional roles.
This unique, practice-based degree allows healthcare support workers or healthcare assistants to work part-time while studying towards becoming a registered Nurse with a specialism in mental health.
View our BSc (Honours) Nursing (Mental Health)
If you’re looking to take your first step towards qualifying as a counselling or practising psychologist, this degree provides a theoretical basis in counselling and a broad understanding of psychology. It looks at how we understand mental health conditions, diagnosis and treatment options, and how psychology is critical to understanding mental health, relationships, education and employment. This course is also accredited by the British Psychological Society.
*Significant further study and experience will be needed beyond the degree to qualify.
View our BSc (Honours) Psychology with Counselling
Our psychology degree provides a strong foundation for a career in the health and social care sector and is the ideal first step towards preparation for further study, training and the experience required for a career as a practising or professional psychologist*. It allows you to focus your studies on mental health or counselling, amongst others. It is also accredited by the British Psychological Society.
*Significant further study and experience will be needed beyond the degree to qualify.
View our BSc (Honours) Psychology
Providing a solid understanding of health and social care policy, theory and practice, this degree is suitable for anyone with an interest in health and social care, including mental health. It applies new ideas to real life situations and explores new ways of working across agency and professional boundaries. You’ll have the opportunity to choose modules focused on mental health covering a range of topics including mental health practice, the nature of mental health treatment and the impact of competing perspectives that characterise the world of mental health.
View our BA (Honours) Health and Social Care
Our most flexible programme, the Open degree allows you to build a unique qualification with any subjects you like, including a range of modules focused on mental health, psychology and counselling.
View our BA/BSc (Honours) Open
I've been lucky enough to get a role as youth education manager. It's my dream job because it's working for a charity and fits with my value set, but I'm also able to use my psychology degree, so it's come together well for me.
This postgraduate qualification, relevant for existing professionals and those wanting to pursue a career in the health services, provides an advanced understanding of a range of fields in psychology including counselling, cognitive, social and forensic psychology. This qualification is not accredited by the British Psychological Society.
View our MSc in Psychology
This masters degree offers you the opportunity to gain your first qualification accredited by the British Psychological Society. You’ll develop a comprehensive and critical understanding of the key concepts, theories, methods and debates in psychology.
View our MSc in Psychology (Conversion)
This postgraduate qualification covers key topics such as stress, anxiety, depression, psychosis and dementia. It’s for anyone with an academic or professional interest in mental health science and its biological and psychological underpinnings. It also explores current issues and research at the forefront of mental health science.
View our MSc in Mental Health Science
Through this microcredential, you’ll learn how to embed mental wellbeing in your teaching. You’ll discover how to apply inclusive teaching strategies and how to design appropriate learning activities that are conducive to students’ mental health.
View this microcredential
Our continuing professional development (CPD) counselling courses are for counsellors, therapists, and those in training who wish to develop skills and knowledge in online therapy, trauma-informed counselling, and advanced therapeutic relationships. Created by leading academics and aligned with the Scope of Practice and Education (SCoPEd) B competencies, these offer flexibility to start anytime and learn at your own pace.
View our counselling short courses
By studying with the OU, people at work see how determined and disciplined I am. So far, my journey has been amazing. I've never once questioned my decision to study with the OU and never looked back. It's the best choice I've made so far.
Joe studying at home
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