Graduate Certificate in Mental Health Nursing

The Graduate Certificate in Mental Health Nursing has been designed with flexibility and support for Registered Nurses to continue working while studying and become a specialist in mental health nursing. On completion of the program you will become eligible for membership with the Australian College of Mental Health Nurses.

You will gain an understanding of contemporary topics and issues relevant to all mental health clinicians, including recovery, physical treatments and psycho-social and educational interventions, interpersonal communication and dual diagnosis. Lessons are focused on mental health care across various settings including inpatient, primary care, community, and specialist services such as forensic, child and adolescent, and aged care.

What am I studying?

The impact of mental illness within the Australian population has become increasingly apparent, ranked fourth among the nation’s health burdens in 2010 bythe Australian Institute of Health and Welfare. CQUniversity's postgraduate offerings in mental health nursing are ideal for registered nurses who are looking to gain specialist qualifications for roles in various health care sectors working with people experiencing mental health problems.

Why Study Nursing at CQUniversity

CQUniversity’s health and medical sciences programs have been developed to meet the ever increasing needs of our communities both here in Australia and for the wider global audience.  

The Graduate Certificate in Mental Health Nursing has been designed with flexibility and support for Registered Nurses to continue working while studying and become a specialist in mental health nursing.

CQUniversity programs are constantly being reviewed and updated in consultation with industry and other stakeholders to ensure that they are relevant and up to date. In fact, our suite of new offerings has been built as a direct response to industry needs by people with specialised industry experience. 

Another key feature in the large majority of CQUniversity’s health and medical science programs is the integration of workplace-integrated learning, or learning on the job. Students are required to complete course undertakings in real-life workplaces, allowing them to put learning directly into practice.  This hands-on project-based learning is a key reason as to why CQUniversity graduates are highly sought after by employers.   

CQUniversity's health and medical sciences academic staff are at the forefront of their respective fields, often still contributing to the community and working within industry. Lecturers have a strong teaching and learning ethos and are committed to delivering quality learning experiences. CQUniversity's Dr Kerry Reid-Searl has pioneered a world-first teaching technique called 'Mask-Ed', which involves masks worn by lecturers to help simulate real-life clinical scenarios in nursing-related practical sessions.

Entry Requirements

To gain entry into postgraduate programs in mental health nursing you must have a qualification as a registered nurse in Australia.

English Requirements

English communications skills equivalent to Year 11 and 12 completion - English (4, SA)

Career Opportunities

On completing postgraduate studies in mental health nursing, you will be qualified to take a range of positions within the mental health industry across a variety of clinical practice settings, such as specialist mental health services, emergency departments and general practice in metropolitan, rural and remote settings.

Work Intergrated Learning

You will be required to undertake a number of hours in clinical placements during the program.

Program Structure

You are required to complete 3 courses (24 units of credit) to be awarded the Graduate Certificate in Mental Health Nursing.

Course Information

For example courses you could study as part of the Graduate Certificate in Mental Health Nursing program please click here.

As CQUniversity is committed to providing quality, up-to-date and relevant education, please note courses are refreshed regularly and may not be an exact indication of course availability for your study. Please call 13CQUni 13 27 86 if you have specific questions regarding course information regarding your specific application.

Residential School and Study Requirements

There are compulsory residential schools for some courses.

Professional Recognition

CQUniversity mental health programs are recognised as part of the credentialing requirements with the Australian College of Mental Health Nurses (ACMHN). Approved applicants with the ACMHN will be awarded with a credential that is valid for three years and are entitled to use the title Mental Health Nurse (MHN).