Victoria University
Graduate Certificate in Child and Adolescent Mental Health
- Delivery: Online
- Commitment: 15 - 20 hours/week
- Study Level: Postgraduate
- Duration: 8 months
Develop specialised skills in child and adolescent mental health, assessment and trauma-informed care through flexible online study.
Course overview
The Victoria University Online Graduate Certificate in Child and Adolescent Mental Health develops specialised knowledge of the mental health needs of children and young people. You will explore mental health and recovery-oriented care, including the social, family and cultural factors that can influence wellbeing.
The course covers engagement and assessment approaches for children and adolescents experiencing mental ill-health. You will also examine communication, risk assessment and relevant ethical and legislative considerations.
Study also includes trauma-informed care, mental health promotion and approaches that support person-centred, culturally responsive practice. The course is relevant to professionals working with children, adolescents, families and carers across health, education and community settings.
The Graduate Certificate comprises four online units and is studied part-time through VU Online. Eligible graduates may also use the course as a pathway to further postgraduate study in child and adolescent mental health.
CSP Subsidised Fees Available
This program has a limited quota of Commonwealth Supported Places (CSP). The indicative CSP price is calculated based on first year fees for EFT. The actual fee may vary if there are choices in electives or majors.
Key facts
From $1,192 (CSP)
8th March, 2027
10th May, 2027
5th July, 2027
30th August, 2027
25th October, 2027
What you will study
Students must complete the following four units:
- Introduction to Child and Adolescent Mental Health
- Child and Adolescent Engagement and Assessment
- Effective Trauma-Informed Care
- Mental Health Foundations
Entry requirements
Applicants must have one of the following:
- Completed an AQF Level 7 Bachelor's degree in a cognate discipline such as Health Science, Social Work, Psychology, Medicine, Counselling, Criminal Justice, Youth Work or Education, OR:
- Completed an AQF Level 7 Bachelor's in any discipline and at least two years of approved work experience.
Outcomes
Career outcomes
This graduate certificate will help you build a strong foundation in child and adolescent mental health so you can collaborate with them, their families, carers, educators and communities to deliver better mental health outcomes. You can apply your skills in evidence-based assessment and intervention approaches in child and adolescent mental health to a range of educational, therapeutic, community and clinical settings.
Upon completion, you can continue studying and gain your Master of Child and Adolescent Mental Health.
Fees and FEE-HELP
Total cost for four units in 2026: $11,480 (domestic full-fee paying place)
All costs are calculated using current rates and are based on a study load of four units per year.
Student annual fees may vary in accordance with:
- The number of units studied per term.
- The choice of major or specialisation.
- Choice of units.
- Credit from previous study or work experience.
- Eligibility for government-funded loans.
You may also need to pay the student services and amenities fee.
Student fees shown are subject to change. Contact the university directly to confirm.
FEE-HELP loans are available to assist eligible full-fee paying domestic students with the cost of a university course.
Student Testimonials
Amanda Frape
I am receiving a lot of support from my facilitators and my Student Success Advisor, who boosts my confidence and self-esteem.
Emma Longuet
The flexibility, relevance and opportunity that VU Online brings to higher education are testaments to excellence in teaching and learning.
Maxwell Gratton
It was personally satisfying to connect and collaborate with a range of industry professionals. Many have become valuable work contacts, some even lifelong friends and career mentors.
