The details
Location: Online Mode of study: Part-time Qualification: PG Cert Indicative duration: 8 months
Start date: Awarding body: University of Essex Delivered by: Kaplan Open Learning For queries: Call +44 (0) 1206 489 358

Want to learn more about mental health across borders? Our 100% online PG Cert Global Mental Health and Wellbeing could help you do just that. Whether you’re already working in a health and social care setting or simply looking to enhance your knowledge, this specialist course can help to further your career in a wide range of sectors. 

Explore a variety of topics, including:  

  • the challenges impacting global mental health  
  • common issues faced by the world population, global policies and frameworks 
  • mental health across the whole life course, from infancy to old age 

Upon successful completion of the course, you have the option to progress on to the PG Dip (120 credits) or the full MSc Global Mental Health and Wellbeing (180 credits).  

Why we’re great

  • You’ll be assessed through a variety of methods, including peer presentations, discussion forums and written essays.  
  • Each module incorporates critical thinking and practical tasks to help develop essential skills for the workplace.  
  • Our modules are delivered by subject experts, providing in-depth knowledge of global health issues and solutions. 
  • Study 100% online, part-time, to fit around existing commitments.  
  • Gain a recognised qualification from the University of Essex, one of the UK’s top 30 universities (Complete University Guide 2025).  

The PG Cert Global Mental Health and Wellbeing is made up of the following modules and, upon completion, is equal to a total of 60 credits.

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. 

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 and 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 PG Cert Global Mental Health and Wellbeing has an indicative study duration of 8 months, 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. 

Our PG Cert Global Mental Health and Wellbeing is designed with a specific focus on employability. Upon completion, you will have the skills and experience required to pursue a career as a Mentor, Coach, Manager, Mental Health Lead or Wellbeing Adviser. With further training you could also become a Specialist Nurse, Specialist Mental Health Practitioner or Health Service Manager.  Additionally, you may wish to further your studies with our PG Dip Global Mental Health and Wellbeing (120 credits) or MSc Global Mental Health and Wellbeing (180 credits). 

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 PG Cert Global Mental Health and Wellbeing, as a minimum you must have at least three years’ relevant work experience.

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:  

£4,157 UK / £4,350 International (2024-25) Δ

  • 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. 

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 PG Cert Global Mental Health and Wellbeing are true experts in the field. 

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