Victoria University

Graduate Certificate in Mental Health Online

  • Delivery: Online
  • Study Level: Postgraduate
  • Duration: 8 months
  • Course Type: Graduate Certificate

Bring deeper understanding to the people you support. Develop knowledge in recovery-oriented practice, trauma-informed care and mental health foundations, with a pathway into VU’s Master of Mental Health.

Ready to take the next step?

Download your course guide and connect with a study advisor to explore:

  • Course structure
  • Learning outcomes
  • Fees
  • Entry requirements

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Course overview

Strengthen your response to mental health needs with Victoria University’s online Graduate Certificate in Mental Health. Designed for allied health, welfare and social care professionals, this course develops your understanding of mental illness and its effects on individuals, families and communities.

Study recovery-oriented mental health, biopsychosocial and cultural perspectives, trauma-informed care and mental health foundations. Explore how physical health, social circumstances and cultural experiences influence wellbeing, alongside the legal and ethical responsibilities involved in supporting people experiencing mental ill-health.

Learn through scenarios and case studies that connect contemporary knowledge with professional practice. Examine consumer rights, choice and collaborative decision-making, developing an approach that recognises lived experience and supports recovery. Reflect on therapeutic relationships, cultural responsiveness and your own professional wellbeing.

Complete four units online in as little as eight months part-time through VU’s seven-week Block Model, with no placement requirement. Access academic support seven days a week, including evenings, and continue into VU’s Master of Mental Health on successful completion.

CSP Subsidised Fees Available

This program has a limited quota of Commonwealth Supported Places (CSP). The indicative CSP price is calculated based on first year fees for EFT. The actual fee may vary if there are choices in electives or majors.

Key facts

Delivery
Online
Course Type
Graduate Certificate
Duration
8 months (Part time)
Commitment
15 - 20 hours/week
Price Per Unit
From $2,870
More Information
The estimated per-unit fee is calculated using the annual average first-year fee. It is based on a part-time study load of four units per year.

$592 (CSP)
More Information
You may be eligible for CSP where the government pays part of your fees. The estimated per unit fees are calculated using the annual CSP rate. It is based on a full-time study load of four units.
Intake
11th January, 2027
8th March, 2027
10th May, 2027
5th July, 2027
30th August, 2027
25th October, 2027
Units
More Information
You may be required to complete 0 credit point units throughout your course. The university will confirm this as part of your enrolment.

The unit total reflects the number of units required for course completion, not the total credit point weight. Some units may be double- or triple-weighted, so the number of units you complete may be lower.
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Fees
More Information
FEE-HELP loans are available to assist eligible full-fee paying domestic students with the cost of a university program.
FEE-HELP, CSP

What you will study

To earn the Graduate Certificate in Mental Health, students must complete the following four core units:

Core units

  • Recovery-Oriented Mental Health
  • Biopsychosocial and Cultural Perspectives in Mental Health
  • Effective Trauma-Informed Care
  • Mental Health Foundations

Entry requirements

Applicants must have one of the following:

  • Completed an AQF Level 7 Bachelor's degree in a cognate discipline such as Health Science, Social Work, Psychology, Medicine, Counselling, Criminal Justice, Youth Work or Education.
  • Completed an AQF Level 7 Bachelor's in any discipline and at least 2 years of approved work experience.

Outcomes

Career outcomes

The program equips you with the expertise and practical skills to support individuals in need, from understanding the complex nuances of mental illness to developing effective recovery-oriented solutions. With a curriculum covering trauma-informed care and evidence-based practices, you'll be prepared to make a meaningful impact in the mental health field.

Elevate your career and become a compassionate and knowledgeable mental health practitioner with a Graduate Certificate in Mental Health from VU.

Fees and FEE-HELP

Total cost for four units in 2026: $11,480 (domestic full-fee paying place)

All costs are calculated using current rates and are based on a study load of four units per year.

Student annual fees may vary in accordance with:

  • The number of units studied per term.
  • The choice of major or specialisation.
  • Choice of units.
  • Credit from previous study or work experience.
  • Eligibility for government-funded loans.

You may also need to pay the student services and amenities fee.

Student fees shown are subject to change. Contact the university directly to confirm.

FEE-HELP loans are available to assist eligible full-fee paying domestic students with the cost of a university course.

Student Testimonials

Maxwell Gratton

Maxwell Gratton

It was personally satisfying to connect and collaborate with a range of industry professionals. Many have become valuable work contacts, some even lifelong friends and career mentors.

Amanda Frape

Amanda Frape

I am receiving a lot of support from my facilitators and my Student Success Advisor, who boosts my confidence and self-esteem.

Emma Longuet

Emma Longuet

The flexibility, relevance and opportunity that VU Online brings to higher education are testaments to excellence in teaching and learning.