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Charles Sturt University

  • 24% international / 76% domestic

Diploma of Health Science (Mental Health)

  • Diploma

Charles Sturt University's Diploma of Health Science (Mental Health) is tailored for First Nations students, providing foundational skills in mental health care and a pathway to further study. No prior qualifications are required.

Key details

Degree Type
Diploma
Duration
1 - 2 years full-time
Study Mode
Online
Intake Months
Mar
Domestic Fees
$9,536 per year

About this course

Diploma of Health Science (Mental Health)

Are you an Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander looking to make a difference in your community's mental health? Charles Sturt University's new mental health diploma is designed exclusively for First Nations students, offering a unique pathway to becoming a mental health professional. This groundbreaking course equips you with the skills to work across community, health, and mental healthcare services, making a real impact where it matters most.

No prior qualification is needed to start this journey. You'll gain a foundation in primary healthcare, cultural safety and the socio-cultural aspects of mental health care, empowering you to support clients and their families through challenges. Plus, completing the diploma provides a direct entry into the Bachelor of Health Science (Mental Health) with credit for your first year, setting you on the fast track to a fulfilling career in mental health.

This course is part of an articulated program of study. Articulated programs allow you to build on your study to achieve the right level of qualification for you.

  • Bachelor of Health Science (Mental Health)
  • Associate Degree in Health Science (Mental Health) [Exit point only]

Entry requirements

To be admitted in the Diploma of Health Science (Mental Health), applicants will:

  • be of Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander background; AND
  • demonstrate an aptitude to undertake this course through previous life experiences in the field of health and Indigenous issues. This would be demonstrated by a letter from the applicant explaining why they have an interest in working with the social and emotional wellbeing of Indigenous communities.

Standard English Language Proficiency (ELP) requirements apply. Click here to view the specific international course entry requirements.

Study locations

Online

What you will learn

What you will study

For each 8-point subject you are enrolled in, you should expect to spend 10 to 12 hours per week working on assignments and assigned readings, tutorial assistance, individual or group research/study, forum activity, workplace learning, and attending lectures, intensive schools, or examinations. If you are studying four subjects per session, this is equivalent to a full-time job. The workload for some subjects may vary as a result of approved course design.

Intensive school

You may need to attend an online or on-campus intensive school for certain subjects in this course. These schools usually involve lectures, tutorials and practicals that will give you a deeper understanding of your subject.

Career pathways

When you graduate, you'll be ready to make your mark in a wide range of careers, including:
  • Mental health counsellor
  • Program development officer

Course structure

Essential set (64 pts)Core subjects 64 Credit PointsCodeTitleCredit PointsMHP105Introduction to Primary Health Care: Mental Health8 credit ptsMHP109The Body, Illness and Health8 credit ptsMHP112History, Social and Emotional Wellbeing8 credit ptsMHP116Mental Health Theory 18 credit ptsMHP113Introduction to Pharmacology in Mental Health8 credit ptsMHP114Human Development Across the Lifespan8 credit ptsMHP115Introduction to Substance Use: Alcohol and Other Drugs8 credit ptsMHP117Mental Health Clinical 18 credit pts

Credit for prior study or work

If you've completed relevant tertiary study, or work experience related to your course, you could receive credit towards your degree. Which would mean completing your qualification quicker. Find out how to apply for credit and see our credit policy.

How to apply

Applying to Charles Sturt University is easy. Choose how you want to apply below, or get in touch with Charles Sturt University and we can help you with your application.
  • Apply via UAC
  • Apply via VTAC
  • Apply directly to Charles Sturt

Graduate outcomes

Graduate satisfaction and employment outcomes for Health Services & Support courses at Charles Sturt University.
84.4%
Overall satisfaction
87%
Skill scale
71.8%
Teaching scale
80.7%
Employed full-time
$65.4k
Average salary