Victoria University
Graduate Certificate in Mental Health
- Delivery: Online
- Commitment: 15 - 20 hours/week
- Study Level: Postgraduate
- Duration: 8 months
Broaden your understanding. Strengthen your mental health practice through 100% online study focused on recovery-oriented care, trauma-informed practice and biopsychosocial and cultural perspectives.
Course overview
Effective mental health practice requires an understanding of the person behind the presentation. The 100% online Graduate Certificate in Mental Health is designed for allied health, welfare and social care professionals seeking a holistic understanding of mental health and its effects on individuals, families and communities.
You will examine common mental illnesses, recovery-oriented practice and the influence of physical health, disability, culture and socioeconomic factors. The curriculum explores consumer rights, autonomy and collaborative decision-making alongside trauma-informed care, care coordination and person-centred therapeutic relationships. You will also consider legal and ethical responsibilities, diverse lived experiences and strategies for mental health promotion and illness prevention.
VU Online’s Block Model lets you complete one seven-week unit at a time, with no on-campus attendance or requirement to be online at set times. The course has no exams or textbooks to purchase and includes academic support seven days a week and in the evenings. After completing the four units, you may continue into the Master of Mental Health.
Key facts
What you will study
To earn the Graduate Certificate in Mental Health, students must complete the following four core units:
Core units
- Recovery-Oriented Mental Health
- Biopsychosocial and Cultural Perspectives in Mental Health
- 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.
- Completed an AQF Level 7 Bachelor's in any discipline and at least 2 years of approved work experience.
Outcomes
The program equips you with the expertise and practical skills to support individuals in need, from understanding the complex nuances of mental illness to developing effective recovery-oriented solutions. With a curriculum covering trauma-informed care and evidence-based practices, you'll be prepared to make a meaningful impact in the mental health field.
Elevate your career and become a compassionate and knowledgeable mental health practitioner with a Graduate Certificate in Mental Health from VU.
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
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.
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.
