Graduate Certificate in Addictions and Mental Health
Durham College, located in Canada, is a renowned educational institution for it's q...
Honours Bachelor of Community Mental Health
Oshawa
INTAKE: September
Program Overview
The Honours Bachelor of Community Mental Health program at Durham College offers students a comprehensive education in mental health promotion, intervention, and community support. Through a blend of theoretical coursework, practical training, and experiential learning opportunities, students develop the knowledge, skills, and competencies necessary to work effectively in diverse mental health settings. The program emphasizes a holistic approach to mental health, addressing the social, cultural, and environmental factors that influence mental well-being. Graduates are prepared to pursue careers as mental health advocates, counselors, case managers, and community support workers, making a meaningful difference in the lives of individuals and communities affected by mental health challenges.
Curriculum:
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Foundations of Mental Health: The program provides students with a strong foundation in mental health theory, research, and practice. Students learn about the biopsychosocial determinants of mental health and illness, exploring topics such as human development, psychopathology, trauma, and resilience. They gain an understanding of the prevalence and impact of mental health disorders, as well as the principles of recovery-oriented care and harm reduction.
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Counseling and Intervention Skills: Students acquire essential counseling and intervention skills to support individuals experiencing mental health challenges. They learn evidence-based counseling techniques, crisis intervention strategies, and suicide prevention methods. Students develop communication, empathy, and active listening skills to establish therapeutic relationships with clients and facilitate positive change. They also learn to conduct mental health assessments, develop treatment plans, and monitor client progress.
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Community Mental Health Promotion: The program focuses on strategies for promoting mental health and preventing mental illness at the community level. Students explore the social determinants of mental health, including poverty, discrimination, housing instability, and access to healthcare. They learn about community-based interventions, health promotion initiatives, and advocacy efforts aimed at addressing systemic barriers and promoting mental well-being for all individuals.
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Case Management and Collaboration: Students develop skills in case management, coordination of care, and interdisciplinary collaboration to support clients with complex mental health needs. They learn about the role of case managers in assessing client needs, accessing resources, and coordinating services across healthcare, social service, and community support sectors. Students also gain experience working collaboratively with interdisciplinary teams to provide holistic and integrated care to clients.
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Cultural Competence and Diversity: The program emphasizes cultural competence and diversity in mental health practice, recognizing the unique needs and experiences of individuals from diverse backgrounds. Students learn about cultural humility, anti-oppressive practice, and trauma-informed care approaches to address the intersectionality of mental health, race, ethnicity, gender, sexuality, and socioeconomic status. They develop skills in working with diverse populations and adapting interventions to meet the cultural and linguistic needs of clients.
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Experiential Learning and Field Placements: Students have opportunities for experiential learning and field placements in mental health agencies, community organizations, hospitals, and other healthcare settings. They apply classroom learning to real-world practice, gaining hands-on experience working with clients, conducting assessments, facilitating groups, and implementing interventions under the supervision of experienced professionals. Field placements provide students with valuable insights into the challenges and rewards of working in the mental health field and help them develop professional networks and competencies for future employment.
Location
Oshawa
Score
IELTS: 6.5
Tuition Fee
CAD 17818
Undergraduate Programs:
Application Fee: CAD $100
- Minimum Academic Requirement: International students applying for undergraduate programs at Durham College must have completed their secondary education or equivalent with a minimum overall average of 65% or higher.
- English Language Proficiency:
- IELTS: A minimum overall score of 6.5, with no band score less than 6.
- PTE Academic: A minimum score of 53.
While Durham College does not offer specific scholarships for international students, there are alternative funding options available. It is recommended that international students thoroughly research and explore various scholarship and financial aid opportunities, both within and outside the college, to support their educational journey at Durham College.
External Scholarships: International students can search for scholarships offered by external organizations, such as government agencies, private foundations, and international organizations. These scholarships may be available based on country of origin, field of study, academic achievement, or other criteria. Students can conduct thorough research and apply for scholarships that align with their eligibility criteria.
Educational Loans: International students can consider applying for educational loans from financial institutions or banks in their home country or Canada. These loans can help cover tuition fees, living expenses, and other educational costs. It is advisable to research and compare different loan options, including interest rates and repayment terms, before making a decision.
Graduating with an Honours Bachelor of Community Mental Health degree from Durham College opens doors to a variety of fulfilling career opportunities in the mental health field. Equipped with a comprehensive understanding of mental health promotion, intervention strategies, and community support systems, graduates are prepared to make meaningful contributions to the well-being of individuals and communities.
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Mental Health Counselor: Graduates can pursue careers as mental health counselors, providing counseling and psychotherapy services to individuals experiencing mental health challenges. They work in a variety of settings, including mental health clinics, community health centers, hospitals, and private practices, offering support to clients dealing with issues such as anxiety, depression, trauma, and substance abuse. Mental health counselors conduct assessments, develop treatment plans, and facilitate therapeutic interventions to promote healing and recovery.
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Community Support Worker: Graduates may work as community support workers, providing practical assistance and emotional support to individuals living with mental illness in community settings. They help clients access essential services, such as housing, employment, healthcare, and social support programs, and advocate for their rights and needs. Community support workers collaborate with other professionals, including case managers, social workers, and healthcare providers, to ensure holistic care and support for clients.
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Case Manager: Graduates can pursue careers as case managers, coordinating care and services for individuals with complex mental health needs. They assess client needs, develop individualized care plans, and connect clients with appropriate resources and support services, such as housing assistance, vocational training, and mental health treatment programs. Case managers advocate for clients' rights, monitor their progress, and facilitate communication and collaboration among service providers to ensure continuity of care.
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Mental Health Educator: Graduates may work as mental health educators, delivering education and training programs to raise awareness about mental health issues, reduce stigma, and promote mental well-being in schools, workplaces, and community organizations. They develop and facilitate workshops, seminars, and educational materials on topics such as stress management, coping skills, suicide prevention, and mental health literacy, empowering individuals to take proactive steps to support their mental health and that of others.
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Program Coordinator: Graduates can pursue careers as program coordinators or managers in mental health agencies, nonprofit organizations, or government agencies, overseeing the development and implementation of mental health programs and services. They design and evaluate program initiatives, allocate resources, and supervise staff and volunteers to ensure effective program delivery and positive outcomes for clients. Program coordinators may specialize in areas such as youth mental health, addiction services, or community outreach.
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Policy Analyst or Advocate: Graduates may work as policy analysts or advocates, influencing mental health policies and legislation at the local, regional, or national level. They research and analyze mental health policy issues, identify gaps in services, and advocate for policy changes to improve access to mental health care, promote social inclusion, and address systemic barriers to mental health equity. Policy analysts and advocates work for government agencies, advocacy organizations, research institutes, or consulting firms, shaping public policy and driving social change.
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Researcher or Evaluator: Graduates can pursue careers as researchers or evaluators, conducting research studies and program evaluations to advance knowledge in the field of mental health and inform evidence-based practices. They design research studies, collect and analyze data, and disseminate research findings through publications, presentations, and policy briefs. Researchers and evaluators work for universities, research institutes, government agencies, or nonprofit organizations, contributing to the development of effective interventions and policies to promote mental health and well-being.
