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FdA Mental Health Work (Full Time)

Marketing Title
14/09/2026
Format
11/06/2027
Format
Level 5
Full-Time
HS2505A1FT (2026/2027)
Accrington & Rossendale College - Accrington & Rossendale College, Broad Oak Campus, Broad Oak Road, Accrington, BB5 2AS
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Course Information

Course Information
The FdA Mental Health Work is designed to prepare you for the growing opportunities within the mental health sector, equipping you with the skills, knowledge, and professional confidence to support individuals and communities effectively. With the landscape of mental health services rapidly evolving, this programme responds to current sector needs and supports both those already working in the field and volunteers with a strong interest in mental health.

You will study key themes such as mental health policy, therapeutic and community approaches, safeguarding, professional practice, and reflective learning, ensuring your development is grounded in both theory and practice. The programme has been developed in close partnership with employers, guaranteeing that the skills you gain are directly relevant to workplace demands.

By combining academic study with applied learning, this degree empowers you to contribute meaningfully to mental health services while opening clear routes for further study and career progression.

YEAR 1
• Professional Practice and Personal Development Planning
• Sociology of Health
• Mental Health and Illness
• Introduction to Research
• Social Policy
• Care Assessment and Planning

YEAR 2
• Mental Health in Older Adults
• Promoting Mental Wellbeing
• Treatment and Recovery Approaches in Mental Health
• Independent Research Project
• Advanced Professional Practice and Personal
Development Planning
• Children and Young People’s Mental Health and Wellbeing
Learning is designed to combine academic study with professional application, ensuring your development is grounded in both theory and practice. You will take part in lectures, seminars, workshops, and group discussions, exploring the key themes and challenges of contemporary mental health work.

A central feature of delivery is work-related learning, with opportunities to reflect on your own professional or voluntary experience within the sector. Skills-based workshops and case study analysis are used to develop practical strategies for supporting individuals, while tutorials provide tailored feedback and support.

Blended learning approaches, including online resources and guided independent study, encourage you to develop critical thinking, independence, and reflective practice, all essential skills for mental health professionals.
Candidates are selected on the basis of their ability to cope with and benefit from the programme. Their suitability can be demonstrated either through previous educational achievement or experience and aptitude.
Admission by prior qualification will normally require a minimum of 96 UCAS Tariff points. Typically, points can be derived from:
• One GCE A level or Vocational A level pass or equivalent
• Two AS level passes
• BTEC National Diploma/ Certificate
• Other qualifications such as Scottish Highers, Welsh Baccalaureate, Irish Leaving Certificates,
• International Baccalaureate, with the required UCAS points
• A pass in a recognised Access course
• Equivalent Scottish or Irish qualifications

Admission by experience and aptitude will be based on the length and type of the candidate’s employment experiences and their ability to demonstrate an aptitude and enthusiasm for the subject. As part of this process, candidates may be required to undertake aptitude tests and. Or to provide personal and/ or employment references.

Candidates whose first language is not English will be required to demonstrate English Language competence equivalent to IELTS 5.5 or higher.
Essays and written assignments – analysing theory, policy, and practice in mental health.

Reports and case studies – applying learning to real-world scenarios and service settings.

Seminar papers and presentations – building confidence in communication and professional discussion.

Portfolios of work-based learning – evidencing skills, reflection, and personal development.

Group projects and seminar presentations – demonstrating teamwork and collaborative problem-solving.
Outstanding Support – Benefit from one-to-one academic guidance, wellbeing services, and tailored careers advice throughout your studies.

Strong University Partnership – This degree is validated by the University of Cumbria.

Specialist Facilities – Access purpose-built learning environments including counselling pods, a VR suite, and a dedicated University Centre.

Proven Success – Students achieve some of the highest satisfaction and progression rates in the region, moving into employment or postgraduate study.

Financial and Practical Help – From bursaries and equipment loans to free breakfast and gym access, we provide wide-ranging support to help you succeed.
Graduates of the FdA Mental Health Work are well-prepared for a wide range of roles across health and social care. Typical career pathways include Mental Health Support Worker, Recovery Coordinator, Community Outreach Worker, or Family Support Practitioner in NHS, local authority, and voluntary sector services.

Many students progress to further study, such as the BA (Hons) Health and Applied Social Studies validated by Liverpool John Moores University and delivered at our Accrington campus. or related top-up degrees. Longer term, this programme provides a strong foundation for specialist or postgraduate training, leading to aspirational roles such as Mental Health Practitioner, Wellbeing Coordinator, or Service Manager.
As a student of the FdA Mental Health Work, you will study within our dedicated University Centre, featuring modern classrooms, IT suites, and collaborative learning spaces designed to support higher-level study. The Learning Resource Centre offers access to academic texts, journals, and specialist databases in health and social care, alongside expert staff to guide your research and study skills.

You will also benefit from tailored academic support, small group tutorials, and dedicated wellbeing services. Quiet study areas, group work rooms, and social spaces create an environment that supports both your academic journey and personal development.
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