The details
Location: Online Mode of study: Part-time Qualification: MSc Indicative duration: 2 years
Start date: Awarding body: University of Essex Delivered by: Kaplan Open Learning For queries: Call +44 (0) 1206 489 358

The Covid pandemic has made us all more aware of our mental health and wellbeing – not just nationally, but on a global scale. Mental health plays a major role in the workplace, so if you’re ready to explore this area on a greater level, consider our 100% online MSc Global Mental Health and Wellbeing. 

Whether you’re already working in a health and social care setting – or you’re a HR manager looking to expand your knowledge – the MSc Global Mental Health and Wellbeing is ideal for a huge range of sectors. You’ll explore the sociological aspects of mental health and wellbeing, while analysing policies and ethics in a global context. You’ll also expand your knowledge of mental health in the workplace to better support others with their problems.  

You’ll study a range of exciting topics throughout this course, including: 

  • challenges associated with mental health on a global scale 
  • the principles and methods of epidemiology, and how to analyse statistical outcomes in research 
  • mental health over the life course, considering psychological stressors from infancy to old age 

Finally, you’ll have the opportunity to conduct your own research project on a topic of interest relevant to the course. 

Why we’re great

  • You’ll be assessed through a variety of methods, including peer presentations, discussion forums and written essays. 
  • You’ll be able to take a more clinical or holistic pathway, or a combination of both, with a range of optional modules to tailor your learning to your interests. 
  • Each module incorporates critical thinking and practical tasks to help develop essential skills for the workplace. 

The MSc Global Mental Health and Wellbeing is made up of the following modules and, upon completion, is equal to a total of 180 credits.

Optional modules: choose two.

Mental health became a big topic during the pandemic – not just nationally, but on a global scale. This in-depth module introduces you to common issues faced by the world population, global policies and frameworks, and social and cultural factors which impact on wellbeing. That way, you can begin to implement methods for better mental health within your own organisation.

In this comprehensive module, you’ll discover the main principles of epidemiology, while embarking on interesting statistical concepts and the analysis of key trends. Apply a theoretical and practical approach to learning and become better-informed about the broader public health environment.  

From early infancy to old age, this thought-provoking module examines mental health across the whole life course. You’ll investigate global issues, the role of mental health services, as well as mental health policies – so that by the end you can critically identify support and therapeutic treatments to encourage recovery and greater wellbeing. 

What policies affect mental health on an international scale? Find out with this in-depth module. You’ll investigate various frameworks, ethics, attitudes and agreements – allowing you to pay particular attention to the design, implementation and evaluation of policy decisions in your own workplace. 

This in-depth module introduces you to both the theoretical and practical issues in the research process, with a strong emphasis on health and social care. By the end, you’ll have developed a critical awareness of the ethical issues that can arise and be able to successfully demonstrate both quantitative and qualitative analysis upon completion.  

You’ll undertake this exciting research project at the culmination of your postgraduate studies. With the support of your supervisor, you’ll compose a comprehensive report on a topic of your choice and relate this to at least one of the subjects covered in your Masters degree. 

What are the current issues which affect mental health in a global context? Uncover the answer with this fascinating module, as you analyse policy frameworks, transcultural psychiatry, recovery methods, peer support and more. Plus, you'll gain a helpful introduction to the contemporary services and interventions available to help manage mental health issues. 

Looking to progress into management? Develop an advanced skillset that’s valuable across a range of roles with this exciting module. All key theories and methods are shaped across six overarching themes: communication, leadership & management, reflective practice, problem-solving, personal development and action learning.  

From stigma and media portrayal to self-harm and barriers in the way of support, this engrossing module explores all aspects of mental health and wellbeing. Upon completion, you’ll be able to distinguish between ‘mental health’, ‘mental distress’ and ‘mental illness’ – while recognising the differences in mental ill health at different life stages. 

This thought-provoking module explores the impact of dementia on the individual, their caregivers, loved ones and the wider community. You’ll explore a wide range of topics – including the biopsychosocial model of dementia, dementia care and current issues in dementia practice – giving you a deeper understanding of how to provide quality care for those with the condition.

Teaching methods 

Studying online gives you the freedom to study when and where it suits you – at home, during your lunch hour or anywhere else you have internet access.  

Our courses are delivered through a virtual learning environment (VLE) instead of a traditional campus. This means you’ll have access to your study materials 24/7, including:  

  • multimedia lecturecasts made up of written content, short videos, animation, audio recordings, infographics, short tests and mini-assignments 
  • discussion forums for you to chat about the course content with fellow students 
  • live seminars and Q&A sessions with your tutors 
  • a comprehensive eLibrary of textbooks and academic journals  
  • support from academic staff and your dedicated Student Support team 

 

Assessments 

You’ll be assessed through a series of assignments. This can be by engaging in discussion forums throughout your modules, completing reflective journal entries, delivering live presentations or by submitting longer written pieces. 

We’re committed to providing frequent and transparent feedback in the following ways: 

  • our assessment criteria are designed to be simple and transparent 
  • you’ll always be aware of your current provisional grade, right from the start of the programme 
  • you’ll be able to view your marks clearly in your gradebook whenever you log into the learning platform 
  • there’s a 7-day turnaround for marking and feedback of assessed work 
  • you’ll have regular contact with your Student Support team, with whom you can discuss any concerns as soon as they arise 

 

Online learning experience 

Your learning experience will be fully supported by high-quality learning materials and resources, delivered via our state-of-the-art virtual learning environment (VLE).  

On average, your learning experience will include the following: 

  • directed learning (40%) this includes participating in tutor-led discussions and seminars, completing interactive exercises on the VLE, and watching videos and lecturecasts. You’ll also be able to book appointments with your module tutor during their office hours, which can be found on the VLE 
  • self-directed learning (30%) – including undertaking wider reading and research in your area of study to develop your understanding of the subject area 
  • assessment (30%) time spent preparing ad completing assignments and activities that contribute towards your overall assessment. 

Typically, you’ll need to dedicate a minimum 15-20 hours of study per module, per week. 

 

Study duration 

Our MSc Global Mental Health and Wellbeing has an indicative study duration of 2 years, which is a guide to how long your course will take to complete. The actual duration may be longer or shorter depending on your speed of study, study options chosen and module availability.  

It’s possible to complete your studies faster than the indicative course duration by doubling up on modules at certain times; however, minimum study durations do apply.  

Our academic year is organised into modules, typically with a one or two-week break between modules and a structured three-week break for the Christmas period. Students will receive a course timetable during the application process.  

All our courses have regular start dates throughout the year.  

On successful completion of your degree, you’ll be invited to attend a graduation ceremony at the University of Essex’s Colchester campus. 

 

Academic staff 

A quality teaching experience is at the heart of everything we do.  

The dedicated tutors who teach our course modules are subject matter experts, experienced academics and leading industry thought leaders. They play a vital role in ensuring the latest theories and areas of study are covered in our courses, and are proud to provide a high level of academic support. 

You can find more information on our key academic staff and their experience here. 

 

Quality and assurance  

We’re proud to provide a first-class education to students anywhere in the world and adhere to the strictest quality standards 

The University of Essex Online is a recognised member of the Quality Assurance Agency for Higher Education (QAA) and registered with the Office for Students (OfS) 

All our degrees are delivered by Kaplan Open Learning, a world-leading education provider with over 15 years’ experience. 

As an MSc Global Mental Health and Wellbeing graduate, combined with your existing knowledge and skills, you will be well prepared to take on roles across a variety of sectors. These include HR Manager, Coach or Mentor, HR Mental Health Lead, Wellbeing Adviser, Commissioning Manager and Policy Adviser. With further training you could also look to be a Specialist Nurse, Health Service Manager or Specialist Mental Health Practitioner. 

Gaining a postgraduate qualification with the University of Essex Online also puts you in good stead for your career prospects. Results from our 2021 student survey showed:

  • 92% of students said their course helped develop their research skills
  • 89% of students say their studies fit with their future plans
  • Almost 60% said their studies had a positive effect on their career
  • 25% of students saw their salaries increase by up to 10%

We know that many people from non-traditional backgrounds would succeed on our courses! That’s why we offer two different entry routes, taking into account your prior work experience and relevant qualifications. You will also need to meet our English language requirements. 

Additionally, you will need to pass your first assignment set within your two-week induction period of the course in order to continue with your studies. 

Academic entry route

In order to satisfy the academic entry route requirements for our MSc Global Mental Health and Wellbeing, you must have the following qualifications as a minimum: 

  • an undergraduate degree from an approved institution, equivalent to a UK Honours degree, or a relevant professional qualification 

Work experience entry route

In order to satisfy the work experience entry route requirements for our MSc Global Mental Health and Wellbeing, you must meet the following criteria: 

  • at least three years’ relevant work experience within a mental health/health and social care field. 

We may also consider students from a more generic people support, workforce or HR background where relevant experience can be demonstrated. 

English language requirements

As our courses are delivered in English, a high proficiency is required in this language. If English is not your first language, your English ability should be equivalent to an IELTS (Academic) score of 6.5. Don’t worry if you don’t hold an IELTS or equivalent qualification – we offer a free online English test to assess your proficiency.  

You don’t need to prove your English ability if you are a national of, or have completed a qualification equivalent to a UK degree in, any of these countries. 

Full tuition fee:  

£12,167 UK / £12,428 International (2023-24) Δ 

  • Designated for postgraduate student loans in England. 
  • Simple monthly payment plan available, enabling you to spread the cost over the duration of your studies. 
  • Full payment discount of 5% if you pay upfront. 
  • Regional scholarship available for international students based overseas in eligible countries. 
  • Alumni discount of 10% of the tuition fee available if you are a previous graduate with the University of Essex or University of Essex Online. 
  • 10% corporate discount available when three or more of your employees study with us. 
  • 10% anniversary scholarship available when you enrol by 31 July 2024.

Please note, a maximum of two discounts or scholarships can be applied. The corporate discount can only be used in combination with our upfront payment discount, but not in conjunction with any other discount or scholarship. Find out more information about our discounts and scholarships here. 

Our course fees are fully inclusive – all teaching materials and required reading are included, and there are no hidden charges for assessments or resits.  

Δ All tuition fees shown are net of any applicable sales tax payable by you in your country of residence. Where we are required to add sales tax at the local statutory rate, this will be added to the tuition fees shown and confirmed during the payment process. 

Subject specialists, industry authorities and experienced academics: the tutors who teach modules on our MSc Global Mental Health and Wellbeing are true experts in the field. 

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