Ranking
10th
In UK
Course overview
The Institute for Mental Health and School of Psychology offers a 100% fully online, interdisciplinary MSc in Mental Health that develops a holistic view of prevention, diagnosis, treatment, research and assessment types with a focus on youth mental health.
Study MSc Mental Health (online) at the University of Birmingham
Hear Dr Sally Adams talk about the MSc Mental Health (online) programme at the University of Birmingham.
Targeted at graduates and professionals, this programme will help you get to grips with the causes of poor mental health, how to prevent it, and how to respond to illness.
Covering topics such as the psychology of youth mental health, research methods, ethics, biopsychosocial approaches to mental health, and service users involvement, this programme features twelve core modules lasting eight weeks each, giving you ample time to understand the core principles of mental health in manageable sections.
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Request information to learn more about the online Mental Health MSc. We’re ready to answer any questions and are available to provide guidance, advice and honest feedback.
Course highlights
Delivered by the Institute for Mental Health and School of Psychology, this online MSc Mental Health degree features the latest research and theories relating to youth mental health.
Plus, with full immersion in the international student community, this programme promises exposure to diverse global views and international contacts, helping you expand your knowledge and build new opportunities throughout your career. Graduate prepared to further your career in mental health services.
- Demonstrate a sound grasp of core principles of mental health, youth mental health and interdisciplinary research methods.
- Gain further knowledge of advanced specialist mental health subjects.
- Demonstrate skills in independent research, including project design and management, research methods, analysis and synthesis, dissemination and impact.
- 100%
Online study. A flexible learning alternative for working professionals around the world
- Top 2
We’re consistently one of the top UK universities targeted by leading graduate employers
High Fliers ‘Graduate Market in 2026’ report
- 10th
in the UK in the QS World University Rankings 2027
Course delivery
The online MSc features expert lecturers and researchers from multiple disciplines. You’ll be taught through a range of learning activities and assignments to consolidate your learning.
- Receive tailored guidance and feedback, enabling you to tackle specific challenges and enhance comprehension of the material.
- Foster independence through project work, preparing you for professional environments and ongoing personal development.
- Gain valuable experience by taking part in discussion forums, summative assessments and multiple-choice questions that simulate real-world tasks and cultivate job-ready skills.
- Enjoy the flexibility and accessibility of online on-demand learning material, allowing you to access course materials at your convenience, accommodating various schedules and preferences.
Module information
The Online Master of Science in Mental Health degree is a 180 credit programme that takes 2.5 years to complete. It is 100% online, and there is no residency requirement. There are twelve 10 credit modules and a 60 credit dissertation.
You’ll take mental health modules designed by the University of Birmingham’s Institute for Mental Health that focus on mental health research, practice and policy.
Entry requirements
To gain a place at Birmingham you will need to meet our general entry requirements, as well as those specific to your course. Your application will be reviewed by the course’s Admissions Tutor, who will decide whether your application should receive an offer.
- 2:1 Honours Degree
in a related discipline from a UK university or an equivalent qualification from a recognised institution.
If you do not meet the standard academic entry criteria, we take into account applications with practical experience of working with young people or in a mental health setting.
Fees and scholarships
- £18,850
Total cost
- £1,450
Per module
*Programme fees are reviewed annually and are subject to change each academic year. The fees listed above are for the academic year 2026/27.
The programme fee includes any online resources, including full access to the online learning platform, course materials and required digital reading materials. The fee does not include any personal expenses for new technical equipment or office supplies.
Application process
To apply for an online postgraduate programme, you will need to submit your application and supporting documents online.
How to apply
If you have a question about your application or the application process, including whether your current degree qualifies you for the programme, contact us using the details below, and we will be happy to help. We’re ready to answer any questions and are available to provide guidance, advice and honest feedback.
Career opportunities
Whether you’re a clinician or a professional with growing mental health responsibilities, this interdisciplinary programme provides essential insights to advance your career in this vital field.
To help compete in the global job market, all students will have access to bespoke advice from our employment consultants. They offer one-to-one coaching on Skype or other communication tools and can work with you to clarify your aspirations, supporting you in your future career. You could even develop an employment strategy to help open doors to a wide range of potential employers (both domestically and globally).
Career support
Your relationship with the University of Birmingham will continue long after your graduation. To make the most of your future career prospects, we will help you gain the skills, knowledge and attributes that employers are looking for.
Upcoming events
There are currently no upcoming events
Student experience
Your online student experience
As one of the largest providers of distance learning in the UK, we offer you a prestigious online education that matches the on-campus experience, taught by our same expert professors and lecturers. You have the flexibility to study from wherever you are in the world, control your daily schedule, and still benefit from the academic, wellbeing, and career support as part of our global postgraduate community.
Your support team
From the moment you enrol to the time you graduate, we will give you all the support you need to succeed. Whether you have questions about your application, assignment deadlines, technical issues or careers opportunities, we’re here to help.