Mental Health (Top-Up)

BSc (Hons)

Distance Learning and Part-Time
Find out more about our Mental Health course at our virtual open days on the 5th and 9th July.
To register your place or find out more email jonathan.secker@anglia.ac.uk

Course overview

The BSc (Hons) 'top up' degree consists of four modules that add to an existing, related diploma. This course will enable students to advance their knowledge and extend their expertise by critically exploring contemporary mental health issues relevant to their clinical practice. Through participation in a range of learning activities, students will be asked to consider the evidence base relating to the current and future health and social care needs of the people they work with.

Students will be academically supported at all stages of their learning and the assessment strategies undertaken have been designed to be meaningful and applicable to the context of care in which the students work. Combined, these elements are intended to support and improve confidence in decision making skills within routine mental health practice. It is intended that completion of this pathway will have a positive effect on those who provide and receive mental health services.

Please note that this is an academic award and is designed for those who have an existing Level 5 qualification. Should you wish to become a mental health nurse please see the BSc Nursing (Mental Health) page



Alec Grimshaw

BSc (Hons) Mental Health

“I am currently a manager for Cambridge and Peterborough NHS foundation trust so part-time study fits in well with my professional career. The course details are well evidenced and easy to follow. The tutors are all dedicated and have always helped and supported me through the course. The tutors are knowledgeable about their chosen subjects and passionate about improving health care through continued education. I have enjoyed all of the course so far and really enjoyed the distance learning side of it as it fits in well with my family life.

”

Students will be required to take 2 of the optional modules and both core modules.
Core modules
  • Research Methodology, Design & Process (30 credits)

    With the increased emphasis on research based practice over the last decade, it is essential that you are knowledgeable about research methodology and the application of theory to practice. The ability to be analytical and insightful regarding research reports is an invaluable skill for anyone who wishes to provide effective and appropriate care in their individual sphere of practice.

  • Undergraduate Major Project.(30 credits)

    This final module within our BSc (Hons) Mental Health course allows you to build on the work you have done within the 3 previous modules and engage in a piece of work that will contribute to your area of practice. You will be academically supported to critically evaluate the related evidence-base and generate evidence-based conclusions. The implications of these will be evaluated in relation to routine clinical practice. This module is designed to contribute to improve practice. Examples from previous students have focused on assessment strategies, risk, specific interventions, recovery based approaches and working with carers.

Assessment

The assessment strategies for each module have been designed to enable students to demonstrate engagement and understanding of the learning outcomes, relating to their particular professional focus.

The modules are overtly structured to help students progress their work for the assignment as they continue through the module content. This is achieved through a robust formative process which provides a range of opportunities for students to receive support and feedback prior to the summative submissions.

The assessment strategy and learning outcomes are detailed within each module guide and on our Virtual Learning Environment.


Sally Goldspink

Course Leader
Image of Sally Goldspink

“I am the course leader for the BSc (Hons) Mental Health within the Department of Allied Health and Medicine, Anglia Ruskin University. I initially qualified as an Occupational Therapist and specialised in mental health for 10 years. In 2003, my career path changed when I was offered a one year teaching contract. I found myself in a challenging but fulfilling environment and have never left! At that time, I also worked as a fitness to practice panel member for the Nursing Midwifery Council for 4 years. I have published chapters on psychosocial approaches to engagement, assessment and working with carers.

In the summer of 2009, my teaching practice altered direction once again when I was given the task of reviewing our Continuing Professional Development (CPD) provision for mental health. I needed to ensure that Anglia Ruskin University provided relevant, meaningful and achievable learning opportunities for a wide range of busy practitioners. This led to my current interest in distance learning and with colleagues, launched our innovative top up degree in January 2011. All 4 modules can be completed online and students focus on their own learning needs in relation to their clinical environment. This has been a highly successful course and we now have plans to develop an online Masters in Mental Health.

Learning is an important feature of my life, both as a teacher and as a learner. Following my MA (Higher Education) I am continuing my own studies and am working towards an Educational Doctorate. My aim is to progress my understanding of distance learning and the impact this can have on personal and professional development. ”

Benefits of the Course

  • The BSc (Hons) Mental Health is a graduate qualification in just four modules.
  • Unlike traditional modules, students are able to choose the focus of their study to suit both their practice and learning needs.
  • The assignment is completed throughout the module, so no huge essay at the end.
  • Clinical area specialists are assigned as personal tutors.
  • The content of the modules reflect contemporary approaches which make them relevant and applicable to practice.

Employability Statement

The BSc (Hons) 'Top Up' degree provides a relevant and achievable method for individuals working within the field of mental health to further develop their knowledge, skills and attitudes. The outcomes from the course extend beyond content learning to a greater ability to think critically and problem-solve. On completion of the course, students can be confident in their skills as lifelong learners. This is necessary in order to effectively engage with the dynamic nature of mental health practice and establish the graduates as active participants within service development.

The course design explicitly reflects contemporary thinking within a range of mental health settings. Modular content is regularly reviewed and verified by practice experts. To ensure personal and professional significance, students are required to address issues relating to the application of their new learning to routine clinical practice. This vital key feature is endorsed by practice partners and has been established as a valued element of the course by service providers and students.

Associated careers

This course provides students with enhanced opportunities for career progression. It also facilitates students to further their professional( eg Nursing etc) education at degree level or above.

Entry Requirements: Entry Requirements: Applicants must demonstrate 120 credits at level 1 and 120 credits at level 2 through a related diploma and professional qualification e.g. Dip HE Registered Mental Health Nurse. Be individuals working in or who have an interest in contemporary mental health practice.
Entry requirements listed are for September 2013 entry. Entry requirements for other intakes may differ.

How to apply

Location

  • Distance Learning

Duration

Up to 3 years part-time

Available starts

September, January

Student finance


Advice & support

Employability

Faculty

Health, Social Care & Education

Department

Allied Health and Medicine

Contact us

UK and EU applicants:International applicants:
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