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Postgraduate Certificate in Mental Health Science - Learning Outcomes

Educational aims

This qualification will enable you to:

  • study key topics in mental health science in depth at masters level
  • develop an understanding of the biological and psychological principles underlying key topics in mental health science (stress, anxiety and depression)
  • understand current knowledge and key issues at the forefront of the discipline areas
  • understand the principles and methodologies that inform current research in mental health science.

This qualification will provide you with:

  • tools to help you obtain and record information, and synthesise and present your learning
  • support and guidance to develop as an independent learner
  • practical and professional skills relevant for employment (these include peer feedback and reflection, group work, organisation, planning and time management, presentation skills and oral and written communication to suit purpose and audience).

After completing this qualification, you should be able to:

  • use electronic means of communication, information searching and retrieval
  • critically assess a broad range of scientific and medical literature in mental health science
  • prepare an online poster that critically engages with current research (including theoretical, methodological and/or practical issues) in mental health science
  • continue to advance your knowledge and understanding in your chosen area
  • exercise independent learning ability required for continuing professional development and apply this to your professional practice, where relevant.

Learning outcomes

Knowledge and understanding

On completion of this qualification, you’ll have knowledge and understanding of:

  • key topics in mental health science (stress, anxiety and depression)
  • a critical awareness of some specialised areas (key topics), including an understanding of contemporary issues and future developments in these areas
  • theories, research methods and techniques applicable to scholarship in mental health science.

Cognitive skills

On completion of this qualification, you’ll be able to:

  • critically evaluate research and scholarship in mental health science
  • judge complex issues systematically based on available evidence
  • demonstrate originality of thought in the application of knowledge.

Practical and/or professional skills

On completion of this qualification, you’ll be able to:

  • undertake self-directed study to advance your knowledge and understanding of mental health science
  • use independent learning skills required to continue your professional development
  • demonstrate a professional approach to practice (proficiency in skills relevant to employment or research, e.g. showing evidence of using initiative and personal responsibility; reflecting on your learning and planning your development needs; demonstrating self-direction and originality in tackling and solving problems; acting autonomously in planning and implementing tasks at a professional level).

Key skills

On completion of this qualification, you’ll be able to:

  • use information technology to locate information, analyse and present data and to communicate effectively with others
  • critically assess primary and secondary literature in the area of mental health science
  • communicate information and conclusions effectively, to specialist and non-specialist audiences
  • demonstrate awareness of the social and ethical issues in mental health science.
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