Online MSc Mental Health
Advance with world-class learning at a top-100, leading university
There is an urgent need for a holistic, whole-system approach to mental health that embeds treatment and prevention in the policies and practices that affect young people.1 This stems from research proving most problems show symptoms before age 25, but people with high resilience resources are only half as likely to develop a condition.1
The Institute of Mental Health and the School of Psychology bring you a 100% online MSc in Mental Health with an interdisciplinary curriculum. You’ll develop a theoretical holistic understanding of mental health diagnosis, treatment, and research and engage in a rich range of course activities and assessments — with a focus on youth mental health.
The University of Birmingham has the strength and variety of programmes to suit your individual needs and interests, backed by the academic expertise and influence, support and facilities of a top 100 public research and teaching university. You’ll benefit from both academic and personal development to achieve success and ensure your degree is an asset in your future prospects.
Top 100 Global University (QS 2025)
World-class Russell Group university
Make Birmingham yours
Complete the form below for detailed programme and pricing information and to be contacted by phone and email.
Gain a holistic view of mental health
Learn how you can address long-term mental health issues by studying a comprehensive approach to mental health and topics like the psychology of youth mental health, research methods, ethics, translational cognitive neuroscience, service user involvement, and biopsychosocial approaches with a focus on how mental health evolves in youth.
To be eligible to apply for the Online MSc in Mental Health, you will need to have obtained (or be predicted to obtain) an upper second-class degree or equivalent in a related discipline from a UK university or an equivalent qualification from a recognised institution.
Related disciplines include:
- Psychology
- Sociology
- Social Policy
- Medicine
- Philosophy
- Education
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.
If English is not your first language, you will need to supply an up-to-date English language test certificate. We accept academic IELTS certificates with a score of 6.5, and no less than 6.0 in any band.
The total estimated cost of tuition for the programme is £17,615. You can pay in full or in instalments of £1,355 on a module-by-module basis. All costs are listed to help you make an informed decision.
Programme fees are reviewed annually and are subject to change each academic year. The fees listed above are for the academic year 2024-25.
A leader in distance learning
Enjoy the convenient online format offered by a world top-100 university and the 4th best university for Online Learning in the UK Uswitch 2022. You’ll be led by the same leading lecturers and faculty experts who instruct on campus. They’ll guide you through flexible online modules, immersive activities and lively discussions. Learn wherever, whenever it’s convenient, and graduate poised to step into your desired role with new knowledge and skills. We’ll even support you in your job search with our Careers Network, linking you to global opportunities to launch or elevate your career.
Support mental health care now
The demand for mental health care is up and more professionals are urgently needed. In the last year, reports in the UK show:
- A 16.2% increase in mental health services.1
- A 38.6% increase in services for those aged 11-15.1
- 74% of employers offer training to recognise issues and ways to support employees.2
Top 3 careers in mental health
- Mental Health Manager
- Health Promotion Officer
- Wellbeing Practitioner
Earn a highly recognised credential
Gain global insights, develop big-picture thinking and emerge with an impressive credential for success in the workplace. Employers are keen to hire our graduates, trusting in their preparedness, advanced postgraduate knowledge, and the fact that we have eight Nobel Laureates and two prime ministers among our alumni.
Ranked 80th in the world (QS 2025)
Ranked 93rd in the world (THE 2025)
Ranked 14th in the UK (Complete University Guide 2024)
Ranked 35th most internationally diverse university in the world (THE 2024)
Russell Group Member
Universitas 21 member
Sources & Disclaimers
- University of Birmingham. “Mental Health Policy Commission. Investing in a Resilient Generation. Keys to a Mentally Prosperous Nation.” Retrieved Dec. 15, 2023, from https://www.birmingham.ac.uk/documents/research/policycommission/investing-in-a-resilient-generation-report.pdf.
- TechTarget. “Employers Grapple with Workforce Mental Health Needs Post-Pandemic.” Retrieved Dec. 15, 2023, from https://healthpayerintelligence.com/features/employers-grapple-with-workforce-mental-health-needs-post-pandemic.
*100% online with no mention of modality on your degree certificate