This program prepares registered nurses to function as specialty mental health nurses in a variety of mental health care settings. It aims to produce graduates who are critical thinkers that effectively use available evidence and reflective practices to enhance their clinical effectiveness.

The program enacts a vision for mental health where nurses work in partnerships with consumers, carers and other clinicians to promote the best possible mental health and well being for consumers and communities.  The program aspires to provide education that inspires and equips graduates to work therapeutically and confidently with clients.  We teach primary mental health care, acute care and recovery principles.  We focus on developing skills in assessment, therapeutic work and nmotivation for change.

Examine social dimensions of mental health including contemporary cultural and social theories that shape how mental disorders are conceptualised and treated. Explore and critically reflect on political, moral and ethical perspectives relevant to the Australian mental health system. Develop your interpersonal skills through a variety of reflective practices such as peer review, consumer feedback, clinical supervision, mentorship and preceptorship.

Offered in an internal/blended mode, some courses lend themselves to weekly or regular class attendance throughout the semester, while others run in a series of full or part day intensive workshops with greater online support of students. Some courses in the Master of Mental Health Nursing are online only, however, students enrolled in online courses, also have access to course coordinators for consultations and enquiries. This flexibility in attendance responds to the varied work patterns of registered nurses and increases your ability to schedule university study around work commitments. For international students on a Student Visa — limits apply to online courses, refer to program notes

A diversity of assessment methods are used to develop a wide range of advanced mental health nursing practices, and to allow you to focus on particular aspects of your mental health nursing practice that may be unique to your setting or interest. These include practice-based assignments, seminar presentations, group work, self-assessment, peer assessment, contract learning, and reflective assessment tasks.

Professional recognition

Graduates are eligible to apply to be credentialed as a Mental Health Nurse by the Australian College of Mental Health Nurses. Credentialing entitles you to use the letters "MHN" after your name and to work in private practice under the mental health nurse incentive program. Students are expected to be working in a relevant area so that clinical experience is complementary.

Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA) - Registration

For professional registration with the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA), graduates are required to demonstrate English language skills at IELTS level 7 or equivalent. Test results from relevant examinations will generally need to be obtained within two years prior to applying for registration. Refer to the AHPRA website for registration information.