In Australia, mental health continues to be a growing concern with the National Study of Mental Health and Wellbeing (NSMHW) reporting that 8.5 million Australians have experienced a mental illness at some point in their life. This figure highlights the pressing need for qualified professionals who can provide support to these individuals in both clinical environments and broader community settings.
If you are looking to make a meaningful impact in this field, pursuing a Master of Mental Health or a Master of Mental Health Nursing offers a rewarding career path. Understanding the unique focuses and applications of each degree is essential in choosing one that best aligns with your background, interests and aspirations.
Graduates with a Master of Mental Health typically work as youth workers, art therapists, case managers or mental health clinicians, offering mental health support in therapeutic, community and clinical settings across Australia.
On the other hand, mental health nurses specialise in delivering nursing care to individuals with mental health conditions in various healthcare settings.
In this article, we will take a closer look at the similarities and differences between both degrees so you can make an informed decision.
An overview: Master of Mental Health
A Master of Mental Health may be a well-suited course for you if you are an allied health or social care professional looking to broaden your skills and knowledge in mental health, take on leadership roles or work in various settings from community organisations to government agencies.
These courses are often interdisciplinary, drawing on insights from psychology, social work, nursing and other related fields.
What does a Master of Mental Health course involve?
Most Master of Mental Health students will undergo two years of full-time study or four years of part-time study.
Entry requirements will vary between each university but typically consist of a bachelor’s qualification in related fields such as health science, psychology or a social science-related discipline. In some instances, relevant work experience may also be required.
Coursework in a Master of Mental Health course may cover units such as:
- Mental Health Foundations
- Management and Leadership in Health
- Evidence and Research for Practice
- Assessment in Mental Health
Students may choose to specialise in a particular area such as young adult and adolescent mental health, substance abuse or community mental health.
Master of Mental Health online courses in Australia
If you are considering pursuing a Master of Mental Health in Australia, here are some online courses to consider:
Master of Mental Health - Victoria University
Victoria University’s Master of Mental Health, designed by leading mental health academics and practitioners, equips allied health and social care professionals with contemporary approaches to transform mental health service delivery.
This online course offers a supportive learning environment, enabling you to gain person-centred knowledge and skills to work in and lead multidisciplinary teams that impact mental health services in Australia.
Master of Mental Health - Southern Cross University
Southern Cross University’s online Master of Mental Health enhances your understanding of mental health and psychology while building practical skills to effectively respond to patients experiencing various levels of mental health challenges.
With a focus on immediate applicability, comprehensive course material and dedicated support from experienced mental health academics, this course prepares you to become a well-rounded mental health care provider in a range of health settings.
An overview: Master of Mental Health Nursing
A Master of Mental Health Nursing may be particularly beneficial if you are a registered nurse who wants to specialise in mental health, take on advanced practice roles or pursue leadership roles.
In Australia, mental health nurses must be registered nurses with the Nursing and Midwifery Board of Australia (NMBA) and have completed additional training in mental health nursing.
The Australian College of Mental Health Nurses (ACMHN) often accredits the Master of Mental Health course, which is designed to provide registered nurses with advanced knowledge and skills about mental health within nursing.
What does a Master of Mental Health Nursing course involve?
Most Master of Mental Health Nursing courses take two years of full-time study or four years of part-time study to complete.
Entry requirements for mental health nursing students typically include a Bachelor of Nursing and current registration as a nurse with the NMBA. Some courses may also require a minimum amount of work experience in a mental health setting.
Coursework in a Master of Mental Health Nursing course may include units such as:
- Advanced Mental Health Nursing Practice
- Mental Health in Later Life
- Mental Health Nursing and Therapeutic Pharmacology
- Care Coordination in Practice
Master of Mental Health Nursing online courses in Australia
If you are considering pursuing a Master of Mental Health Nursing in Australia, here are some online courses to consider:
Master of Mental Health Nursing - Victoria University
Victoria University’s Master of Mental Health Nursing allows you to gain specialised skills to lead multidisciplinary teams and create transformational change.
This mental health nursing course meets the education requirements for the ACMHN Credential and empowers you to build on your nursing practice, gain a holistic understanding of mental health and its impact on individuals, families and communities.
Master of Mental Health Nursing - Southern Cross University
Southern Cross University’s Master of Mental Health Nursing has a comprehensive curriculum that includes everything from Australian mental health legislation and policy to the latest evidence-based approaches, contemporary mental health literature and therapies.
This course allows you to gain the skills and knowledge to potentially move into a specialised mental health nursing role, or formalise and enhance an existing mental health nursing role.
Job responsibilities
What are the responsibilities of a mental health professional?
Mental health professionals with a Master of Mental Health may work in various settings, such as community organisations, private mental health practice, hospitals or government agencies.
Job responsibilities may include:
- Conducting assessments and developing treatment plans for individuals with mental health conditions.
- Providing individual, group or family therapy.
- Collaborating with other healthcare professionals to provide comprehensive care.
- Developing and implementing mental health programs and services.
- Engaging in research to advance the understanding of mental health and effective interventions.
- Advocating for mental health policy changes and improved access to services.
What are the responsibilities of mental health nurses?
Mental health nurses with a Master of Mental Health Nursing usually work in specialised mental health settings such as psychiatric units, community mental health centres or residential treatment facilities.
Job responsibilities may include:
- Assessing and monitoring the mental health status of patients.
- Administering and monitoring medication therapies.
- Providing therapeutic interventions such as individual or group counselling.
- Developing and implementing nursing care plans.
- Educating patients and their families about mental health conditions and treatment options.
- Providing leadership and mentorship to other nursing staff.
Career opportunities and earning potential
Mental health professionals career paths
Some common career outcomes for Master of Mental Health graduates include:
- mental health clinician
- mental health worker
- program coordinator
- policy advisor
- community development worker
Mental health professionals salary
According to Talent, mental health workers in Australia earn an average of $85,000 per year. The salary for related roles, such as a clinician is an average of $100,000 per year and $65,000 for a community support worker.
Mental health nursing career paths
Some common career paths for Master of Mental Health Nursing graduates include:
- mental health nurse practitioner
- clinical nurse consultant
- nurse unit manager
- nurse educator
Mental health nurse salary
Mental health nurses earn an average of $104,000 per year, however earning potential can vary based on factors such as location, experience and the specific role. For example, entry-level positions start at around $84,000 per year while most experienced workers make up to $129,148 per year.
Projected job growth
Mental health professionals job growth
The demand for mental health professionals in Australia is expected to grow in the coming years as awareness of mental health and mental illness grows.
According to the National Mental Health Workforce Strategy, there is currently a 32 per cent shortfall in mental health workers, with the shortfall expected to grow to 42 per cent if shortages are not addressed, indicating the demand for mental health professionals in the coming years.
Mental health nursing job growth
Similarly, according to the ACMHN, it is predicted that the mental health nursing workforce will move to the largest undersupply, with a projected shortfall of approximately 19,000 mental health nurses. This showcases the demand for mental health nurses and the job opportunities available.
Choosing the right degree for you
Both the Master of Mental Health and the Master of Mental Health Nursing offer the opportunity to make a difference in people’s lives and contribute to the advancement of mental health services.
When deciding which degree to pursue, here are some considerations:
Your professional background
If you have a bachelor's degree in a field such as psychology, social work or occupational therapy and want to apply mental health approaches in various settings, a Master of Mental Health may be a good fit.
If you are a registered nurse passionate about specialising in mental health and taking on leadership roles within nursing, a Master of Mental Health Nursing could be the ideal choice.
Your career goals
Consider your long-term career aspirations and which degree aligns best with those goals. A Master of Mental Health can prepare you for a wide range of roles across different settings, while a Master of Mental Health Nursing focuses more on advanced nursing practice and leadership within mental health services.
Your personal interests
Reflect on what aspects of mental health work you find most compelling. If you are drawn to research, policy or community development, a Master of Mental Health may offer more opportunities in those areas.
If you enjoy direct patient care and are keen on advancing your nursing practice, a Master of Mental Health Nursing could be the more fulfilling option.
Take the next step in your career
At GlobalHealth Education, our Student Enrolment Advisors are here to help you learn more about Master of Mental Health and Master of Mental Health Nursing courses offered by our partner universities.
Our partner universities offer flexible, online programs that equip you with the knowledge and skills needed for a fulfilling career in the mental health field.
Frequently asked questions (FAQs)
Can I pursue a Master of Mental Health Nursing if I am not a registered nurse?
No, to enrol in a Master of Mental Health Nursing course, most universities require students to have completed a Bachelor of Nursing course and have current registration with the Australian Health Practitioners Regulatory Authority (AHPRA). If you are not a registered nurse but are interested in mental health, consider a Master of Mental Health or related courses in psychology, social work or counselling.
What types of patients or clients do mental health professionals and mental health nurses typically work with?
Mental health professionals and mental health nurses typically work with individuals experiencing a wide range of mental illnesses, which may include anxiety disorders, depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, personality disorders, trauma-related disorders and substance use disorders.
What skills do I need to succeed in a mental health nursing or mental health master’s degree?
To succeed in a mental health or mental health nursing master’s course, you will need a combination of knowledge, practical skills and personal attributes. These include a strong understanding of mental health concepts, theories and interventions, excellent communication and interpersonal skills, empathy and compassion, critical thinking skills and working effectively in a team.
Can I pursue a graduate certificate or graduate diploma in mental health nursing or mental health instead of a master’s degree?
Yes, many universities in Australia such as the partner universities on GlobalHealth Education offer courses which include graduate certificates and graduate diplomas in mental health and mental health nursing. These courses are shorter than master’s degrees and can provide you with specialised knowledge and skills in mental health. This may be suitable if you are looking to upskill or transition into mental health without committing to a full master’s course.
How does a Master of Mental Health or a Master of Mental Health prepare me for a career in the mental health field?
These courses provide advanced knowledge, a comprehensive curriculum and the ability to develop research and leadership skills. You will have the opportunity to engage in practical learning experiences such as case studies, simulations and online discussions with peers and mentors, which will help you develop the critical thinking and decision-making skills needed for advanced practice in mental health.
