Online Courses in Mental Health: Course Descriptions

Students and working professionals may enroll in mental health courses as part of bachelor's or master's degree programs or post-master's degree certificate programs. Psychology, sociology, educational psychology or educational specialist programs can include courses in mental health.

Overview of Online Mental Health Courses

Online courses in mental health are offered as part of synchronous or asynchronous degree-granting and certificate programs. Students from many backgrounds take these courses, including mental health counselors, social workers, psychologists, educators, nurses and business professionals. Graduates of online mental health degree and certificate programs often work in hospitals, residential treatment facilities, schools or offices.

Course Requirements

Students need a computer and access to the Internet for online learning. Classes may require students to have access to specialized word processing, spreadsheet, presentation or document viewing software. An active e-mail account is necessary to communicate with teachers or fellow students.
These courses use online learning platforms such as Blackboard or Sakai. In some cases, students may participate in online discussions held at set times. Exams may be taken online or at approved sites under the supervision of a proctor.

List of Online Courses

Sociology of Mental Health Course

This class explores major sociological theories and research that inform social conceptions of mental health and illness. Students investigate processes of defining mental health, and examine how social definitions negotiate health and illness experiences for patients, providers and communities. Historical perceptions of mental health form an essential course component, with an emphasis on how these perceptions influence mental illness treatment protocols.

Mental Health of Children and Young Adults Course

Lessons cover how to intervene when children and young adults demonstrate symptoms of mental health conditions. Students in this class explore how education professionals like psychologists, nurses and social workers can work together supporting children and young adults affected by mental disorders. Typical characteristics of common disorders are discussed. Students will also talk about the role of families and school staff in the context of mental health issues common to youth.

Mental Health in the Classroom Course

Mental health practitioners working in school settings discuss how best to identify and assist students needing mental health help for conditions like attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), bullying and anger management. Learners focus on tools they can use to help students achieve satisfactory academic and social performance in school.

Multicultural Approaches to Mental Health Course

Students discuss mental health as it pertains to ethnic identity, gender and social class. Oppressive social factors that may contribute to mental health concerns, including racism, ageism and sexism are examined. Students navigate how to work with individuals in unique cultural contexts, including appropriate diagnoses, assessments and interventions.