The study programme differs from psychiatric health care programmes that traditionally have been closely linked

to the discipline of medicine, and to the treatment and care that has been practised in institutions and private care.

Mental Health Work is a further education programme for health and social workers who work with people who in different ways suffer from mental health disorders. The study programme places particular emphasis on developing the practical and theoretical understanding of the importance of relationships in all forms of mental health care. The programme emphasises the relationship between theoretical knowledge and practical application. The programme provides basic knowledge of biological, social, cultural and spiritual aspects of human mental health, and explores the relationship between mental illness and these aspects. Collaboration and interdisciplinary knowledge are emphasised.

The part-time programme comprises 60 ECTS and is taught over two years; the first year includes five one-week sessions per semester, while the second year consists of two to three one-week sessions per semester. In addition, there will be ten weeks of continuous practical training in the third semester, and a project period that extends over twelve weeks in the fourth semester.