The Programme

• Course Content

  This Postgraduate Certificate comprises three 20 credit modules:

  Understanding and Helping People Who Use Alcohol and Drugs (Semester 1) – This module will explore the epidemiology of substance use across the life-span. You will have an understanding of the diagnostic and screening assessment and treatment process. Using an early intervention framework you will develop the skills of early recognition and extended brief interventions. Current pharmacological treatments will be reviewed. Particular attention will be given to co-morbid mental and physical illnesses.

  Understanding and Working with People Who Self-Harm (Semester 2) - This module aims to highlight the difference between self-harm and suicide and explore the role self-harm plays in the management of extreme distress. You will learn how to work more empathically and effectively with services users who present with this method off dealing with distress. Providing support for the family through education and skills development will be a significant aspect of this module.

  Mental Health Essentials – (Semester 2) - This module explores; psychosocial assessment skills; vulnerability stress model; identification/early detection of common mental health difficulties; risk, trans/inter-generational transmission, family and carer systematic aspects of common mental health problems and psychological problems associated with chronic physical health problems; sign posting to specialist services.

• Outcomes

  Upon successful completion of this course, students will graduate with a Post Graduate Certificate (PG Cert) in Advanced HealthCare Practice (Mental Health).  

• Delivery

  Students should note that delivery may be via blended learning, with a mix of online and face to face classes as detailed within the module timetable on Canvas.

  Autumn (AUT) teaching commences w/c Monday, 21 September 2026 (Week 1) and finishes w/c  Monday, 14 December 2026 unless otherwise advised.

  Spring (SPR) teaching commences w/c Monday, 18 January 2027 (Week 18) and finishes w/c Monday, 27 April 2027 unless otherwise advised.

  Venue for first class listed below - thereafter, students should check the Weekly Planner facility on QSIS for remaining venues.

  First Semester	(Day)	(Time)	TBC
  Second Semester			TBC

• Selection Criteria

  Applicants shall normally hold a relevant 2.2 Honours degree or above, or an equivalent qualification acceptable to the University. 

  Applicants who do not hold a 2.2 Honours degree (or equivalent qualification acceptable to the University) may be considered on a case-by-case basis where they can demonstrate evidence of successful study at Level 6 in a healthcare related subject. 

  Applicants must provide evidence of at least 20 CAT points at Level 3/6. Certificates must clearly state level of study and credit worthiness in order to meet the entry requirements. 

  In addition, applicants accessing postgraduate certificates must be working in the relevant clinical area. 

  International Trained Nurses/Midwives: If you hold an international qualification you will need to provide a UK ENIC Statement of Comparability. This should be obtained prior to submitting your application. You can apply for a statement through the ENIC website: Statement of Comparability (enic.org.uk)