Certificate in Foundations of Public Mental Health

Certificate

Hours: 12 On-Campus Online

About

The Certificate in Foundations of Public Mental Health at Fort Hays State University provides students with essential knowledge of mental health and substance abuse issues. This certificate prepares students to promote mental wellness in their communities and understand the factors influencing public mental health.

Aligned with the Department of Psychology’s Applied Mental Health emphasis, the certificate covers key topics such as abnormal psychology, substance abuse, and therapeutic methods, and includes a practical apprenticeship. FHSU is committed to developing students’ skills to effectively support individuals and communities facing mental health challenges.

Why pursue a Certificate in Foundations of Public Mental Health at Fort Hays State University?

The Certificate in Foundations of Public Mental Health combines theoretical knowledge with practical experience, distinguishing it from similar programs. This certificate includes a required apprenticeship to ensure real-world application.

Fort Hays State University offers a supportive and flexible learning environment with both online and on-campus options. Aligned with the Department of Psychology’s Applied Mental Health emphasis, this certificate allows psychology majors to specialize further in public mental health, making it a valuable step for those dedicated to impacting the mental health field.

Who is this program for?

Our Certificate in Foundations of Public Mental Health is tailored for students who want to enhance their understanding of mental health and public health. It is ideal for those pursuing careers in mental health, social work, public health, and related fields:

Psychology majors seeking specialization
Students interested in public health fields
Those aiming to work in mental health support roles
Individuals wanting practical experience in mental health
Students with a focus on community wellness and advocacy

Learning Outcomes

The Certificate in Foundations of Public Mental Health is designed to equip students with the skills to identify, understand, and address mental health challenges within communities. The curriculum promotes critical thinking and practical abilities essential for effective mental health support.

Identify Risk Factors and Warning Signs

Students are trained to recognize key indicators of mental illness and substance abuse, essential for early intervention. This includes understanding behaviors, environmental influences, and social cues that may signal emerging mental health concerns.

Understand Contributing Factors to Mental Health

The curriculum examines social, psychological, and biological influences on mental health. Students learn how genetics, environment, and social interactions impact well-being, equipping them to take a holistic approach to mental health challenges.

Identify Resources for Mental Health Support

Students gain knowledge of available support systems and resources for individuals facing mental health challenges. This understanding enables them to effectively guide clients to appropriate care and provide essential assistance.

Understand Crisis and Noncrisis Intervention Strategies

Students acquire skills in assessing and responding to both crisis and non-crisis situations. They learn to apply appropriate interventions that ensure safety and promote well-being, a critical competency in public mental health roles.

Real-World Applications

Our Certificate in Foundations of Public Mental Health includes an apprenticeship component that provides students with valuable hands-on experience applying intervention techniques and addressing mental health issues in real-world settings.

The coursework also integrates practical topics such as crisis intervention and substance abuse awareness, preparing students for the challenges they may encounter in the field. Upon completion, students are equipped to contribute to public health initiatives, community programs, and individual care, effectively bridging the gap between theory and practice in public mental health.

Stay Ahead of the Curve

FHSU’s Certificate in Foundations of Public Mental Health stays at the forefront of mental health education by incorporating current trends and advancements in behavioral science.

The certificate includes essential instruction in therapeutic skills and intervention techniques, with a strong emphasis on evidence-based practices. Students gain both foundational knowledge and up-to-date strategies to support effective public mental health advocacy.

Hands-on Activities

The Certificate in Foundations of Public Mental Health emphasizes experiential learning, giving students practical experience beyond the classroom. Through a required apprenticeship, students apply their knowledge in real-world settings, directly supporting individuals facing mental health challenges.

Coursework also focuses on building skills in therapeutic techniques, behavioral analysis, and intervention methods, preparing students for hands-on roles in public mental health.

What You’ll Learn:

Recognition of mental health risk factors
Basic therapeutic skills
Comprehensive view of public health needs
Understanding of crisis intervention strategies
Insight into substance abuse effects

How You’ll Learn:

Flexible online or on-campus options
Engaging coursework in Applied Mental Health
Faculty-led instruction and mentoring
Collaborative projects and discussions
Real-world apprenticeship experience

Courses

The core curriculum of the Certificate in Foundations of Public Mental Health includes four essential courses that provide a solid foundation in mental health, substance abuse, and therapeutic skills. Students build on this knowledge by examining the link between substance use and mental health, while developing key communication techniques and therapeutic approaches essential for effective practice in the field.

PSY 300: Abnormal Psychology

This course systematically studies psychological disorders' classification, description, and treatment. Students will explore mental health perspectives and emerging issues while developing essential skills, such as self-awareness, empathy, communication, and ethical decision-making, to foster personal growth and professional success.

PSY 355: Drugs and Behavior

This course explores the psychological and physiological foundations of psychoactive and abused substances, focusing on key methods and principal findings in the field.

PSY 310: Introduction to Therapeutic Skills

This course equips students with the fundamental skills necessary for working in human services and prepares them to apply effective techniques for interacting professionally and efficiently with the public.

Discover the full Certificate in Foundations of Public Mental Health course listing by visiting the Academic Catalog.

Career Prospects

The Certificate in Foundations of Public Mental Health is an advisory certificate intended for students pursuing a B.A. or B.S. in Psychology or a related field. While the certificate enhances career prospects in mental health and public health settings, it does not serve as a credential or licensure for positions requiring a bachelor’s or master’s degree.

Students are strongly encouraged to complete this certificate alongside an undergraduate degree in a related discipline. Many of the career paths associated with this field require additional training or advanced education beyond the scope of the certificate.

Mental Health Technician

Mental health technicians support clients in clinical settings by assisting with daily activities and implementing treatment plans. Under the supervision of licensed professionals, they help monitor client progress and provide vital emotional and practical support as part of the care team.

Substance Abuse Counselor

Substance abuse counselors support individuals facing addiction by using therapeutic techniques to guide them through recovery. They assess clients' needs, teach coping strategies, and connect individuals with resources that promote sustained recovery and overall mental wellness.

Community Health Worker

Community health workers act as bridges between healthcare services and the community. They educate the public on mental health, substance abuse, and wellness, promote health awareness, connect individuals to resources, and support the implementation of community-based programs.

Nationally Certified Case Manager

Case managers offer structured support to individuals with mental health and substance use needs by coordinating services, developing care plans, and connecting clients to essential resources. They serve as advocates, guiding clients through healthcare systems to ensure consistent, effective support and stability.

Rehabilitation Specialist

Rehabilitation specialists help individuals with mental health and substance abuse challenges by focusing on skill-building and recovery. They support clients in developing coping strategies, reintegrating into the community, and achieving greater independence.

The Best Value in Higher Education Anywhere

Fort Hays State University prides itself on quality education at an affordable price. Students in this program can expect to pay approximately $2,444.76* (on-campus) or $3,180.60* (online) per semester.

*Estimated cost based on 12 credit hours at the Undergrad resident/regional tuition rate ($203.73/credit hour) for on-campus courses, or the FHSU Online Undergrad tuition rate (265.05/credit hour) for online courses. Actual price may vary depending on course load and location. Tuition and Fees are subject to change as they are approved by the Kansas Board of Regents each year.

Ready for the next step?

Our faculty would be excited to talk to you about how our department programs can help you explore your interests and prepare you for a variety of rewarding careers.

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Related Programs

Fort Hays State University offers several related programs within the Department of Psychology and other departments for students interested in further expanding their mental health knowledge:

FAQ

I am a current FHSU student interested in completing this certificate – what should I do next?

To complete this certificate, please visit the Certificates page. Here you will find more information including the Intent to Complete form that should be submitted to start taking the certificate classes.

Is this certificate recognized as a degree or credential in psychology?

This certificate is not recognized as a degree or professional credential in psychology. It is an advisory certificate intended for students pursuing a B.A./B.S. in Psychology or related fields. Completion of this certificate does not provide credentialing or licensure for mental health and public health careers that require a bachelor’s or master’s degree. While the certificate can enhance career prospects, it is strongly recommended that it be pursued alongside a B.A./B.S. in Psychology or a related field, as many related careers require advanced training beyond this certificate.

Is the Certificate in Foundations of Public Mental Health available entirely online?

Students can complete the certificate online, with the option to attend on-campus classes as well.

Does the Certificate in Foundations of Public Mental Health include any hands-on experience?

Yes, students complete an apprenticeship, providing real-world experience in mental health support.

Are there financial aid options for this certificate?

Financial aid may be available to qualified students. Contact the FHSU office of financial assistance for detailed information.

Can non-psychology majors apply for this certificate?

Non-majors can complete the certificate; however, space is limited for the apprenticeship class each semester, and priority enrollment is given to psychology majors and minors.

Information about the Department of Psychology

The Department of Psychology at FHSU offers innovative experiential learning opportunities that allow students to explore psychology theory and understand the human mind. Committed to excellence in education and research, the department prepares students to contribute to local and global communities as knowledgeable citizens and lifelong learners. With award-winning faculty, the department provides high-quality education, fostering strong student-faculty relationships and offering meaningful internships through local partnerships.

Students engage in collaborative research, participate in scholarly activities, and gain practical experience in dedicated research labs and community settings. Graduates of the psychology programs are well-equipped to pursue rewarding careers, having developed professional skills and a deep understanding of psychological science. The department offers both undergraduate and graduate programs, on-campus and online, ensuring students receive the necessary support and resources to succeed.

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