Find out more about studying PGCert Postgraduate Certificate Approved Mental Health Professional Practice at University of Manchester? We've gathered all the key details, entry requirements, modules, fees, and more. Take the next step by booking an open day to explore it for yourself.
Postgraduate Certificate
Main Campus
Part Time
Sep 2026
1 Year
Course description
Our PGCert in Approved Mental Health Professional Practice is the only certificate that allows students to gain Approved Mental Health Professional (AMHP) status and be approved by local authorities.
The course combines academic study with practice in mental health, with a focus on AMHP training.
AMHP training covers the integration of mental health issues, psychiatry and mental health law in multidisciplinary teams from a social perspective.
Our lecturers reflect this multidisciplinary approach and include psychiatrists, lawyers, psychologists, nurses and social workers, as well as service users and carers.
Students undertaking AMHP training must be supported by their employers and seconded to the training. Employers must agree to provide a Practice Educator and an appropriate Practice Learning Placement.
To meet the requirements for AMHP, you must successfully complete the four mandatory course units and a competent Practice Portfolio.
Students who successfully complete the PGCert will be able to progress to our PGDip in Applied Mental Health, which includes a literature review. You can then progress to our MSc in Applied Mental Health.
Aims
Our PGCert has been designed for those wishing to seek authorisation under the Mental Health Act 1983, as amended in 2007, to discharge the duties of an Approved Mental Health Professional.
The outcome is to produce knowledgeable and skilled professionals who will be able to discharge statutory responsibilities under this legislation, and who will also have the ability to stay abreast of cutting-edge research and development within contemporary mental health services, as well as having the capacity to translate research insights into practice.
Teaching and learning
Our lecturers include psychiatrists, lawyers, psychologists, nurses and social workers, as well as service users and carers.
Coursework and assessment
Assessment is continuous throughout the programme. Students are required to complete assessed essays, an 'open book' mental health law examination and practice-focused assessments.
Associated organisations
Contributors to the course include mental health trust staff, voluntary and third sector staff and service users and carers.
