PGDip Approved Mental Health Practice at University of Brighton

Programme overview

This intensive level 7 course is for qualified social workers, mental health and learning disabilities nurses, occupational therapists and psychologists who are currently working in mental health or related services. If you successfully complete the course, you will be eligible to apply to a local authority for approval to practice as an Approved Mental Health Professional (AMHP). This is a specific role that is legally defined under the Mental Health Act 1983.

Faculty: School of Humanities and Social Science | Department: Social Work | Duration: full-time: 6 months, January to June; part-time: 2 years | Study mode: full-time / part-time | Location: Brighton, England, United Kingdom

What you will study

If you are studying full-time, the course runs for approximately six months, from early January to early June. If you are studying part-time, the course is spread over two years. Your time on the course is divided between university-based teaching sessions together with at least 40 days in a practice placement setting. University teaching typically takes the form of workshop-style lectures which offer you the opportunity to take an active role in your learning whilst working closely with other students. These are facilitated by academic staff or sometimes by practising AMHPs or other professionals. Modules include Ethics, Values and Equalities in Mental Health, Applied Mental Health Law and Policy, Social and Psychological Contexts of Mental Health, Managing Mental Health Act Assessments and Interventions, Partnerships.

Career pathways

Some AMHPs work in dedicated AMHP teams; others combine the statutory AMHP role with their day-to-day practice in a mainstream social work, nursing, occupational therapy or psychology role.

Official programme page

Application information

Entry requirements

Applicants must normally: have a first degree or demonstrate ability to study at level 7. hold a recognised professional qualification in social work, nursing, occupational therapy or psychology. have current registration with the appropriate professional statutory body (Social Work England, Nursing & Midwifery Council, Health and Care Professions Council) as either a social worker, a mental health and learning disabilities nurse, an occupational therapist or a psychologist. be engaged in complex professional practice in mental health services for a minimum of 15 hours per week. Either be nominated by a local authority or other employer who will facilitate relevant, required practice, supervision and assessment of practice to meet course assessment requirements; or (if an independent practitioner) have a written agreement before the start of the course from a local authority or health trust who, within the organisation, will provide the practice, supervision and assessment of practice by a suitably qualified and experienced person as agreed by the course team. Please note. All applicants are required to attend an interview as part of the admissions process. Recognition of prior learning (RPL) will be considered in line with our RPL regulations.

Duration: full-time: 6 months, January to June; part-time: 2 years

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