Foundations of Public Mental Health Certificate

The Certificate in Foundations of Public Mental Health at Fort Hays State University equips students with foundational knowledge of mental health and substance use issues. Designed to enhance understanding of the factors that impact public mental health, this certificate supports efforts to promote mental wellness with diverse communities.

Offered through the Department of Psychology and aligned with its Applied Mental Health emphasis, the certificate includes coursework in abnormal psychology, substance abuse, and therapeutic approaches, along with a hands-on apprenticeship experience. FHSU is committed to preparing students with the practical skills needed to support individuals and communities facing mental health challenges.

Why pursue a Certificate in Foundations of Public Mental Health at FHSU?

The Certificate in Foundations of Public Mental Health integrates theoretical learning with hands-on experience, distinguishing it from similar programs. A required apprenticeship ensures that students can apply their knowledge in real-world settings, enhancing both competence and confidence in the field.

Offered through a supportive and flexible learning environment—available both online and on campus—this certificate aligns with the Department of Psychology’s Applied Mental Health emphasis. It provides psychology majors with an opportunity to deepen their focus on public mental health, serving as a valuable credential for those seeking to contribute meaningfully to mental health initiatives in their communities.

Who is this program for?

This certificate is designed for students seeking to deepen their understanding of mental health within the broader context of public health. It is particularly well-suited for those preparing for 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

Which courses will you take?

Courses		Course Hours
PSY 300 Abnormal Psychology		3
PSY 355 Drugs and Behavior		3
PSY 310 Introduction to Therapeutic Skills		3
PSY 376 Apprenticeship in Psychology I		3
Total Credit Hours Needed		12 Credit Hours

No grade lower than a “C” is acceptable for the classes taken to complete the certificate
PSY 100 is a pre-requisite for all psych course

For more information about how to apply for PSY 376 Apprenticeship, please click here.

Interested in this Certificate?

Watch this short video (9 minutes) featuring faculty members from our department. They’ll walk you through the certificates we offer and how they can benefit you:

Certificate Overview Video

If you're a current FHSU student, follow these steps to add a certificate to your program of study or request your printed certificate once you've completed the requirements.

1. Intent to Complete a Certificate - Form Link

Use this form to officially add a certificate to your advisory program in Workday.

2. Completion of a Certificate - Form Link

Once you've successfully completed all required coursework, submit this form to receive your printed certificate. Note: All students must submit the completion form to receive a printed certificate—even if all requirements have been met.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

This certificate does not qualify as a degree or professional credential in psychology. It is an advisory certificate designed to complement a student’s pursuit of a B.A. or B.S. in Psychology or a related field. Completion of the certificate alone does not meet the credentialing or licensure requirements for careers in mental health, public health, or other fields that require a bachelor’s or master’s degree. To maximize its professional value, students are encouraged to complete the certificate alongside a full bachelor’s degree to be eligible for advanced training and career opportunities.

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.

We're Here to Help!

For any other questions, please contact the Department of Psychology at psecreta@fhsu.edu or call us at 785-628-4405.

This is an FHSU advisory certificate. The certificates are designed by FHSU faculty to provide students a guide to choosing courses that introduce and develop a subject knowledge and/or skills. These certificates may be used to select a focus within a major, to develop additional knowledge and skills to complement a major, or to pursuing a topic of interest with open elective hours.

Courses taken as part of an advisory certificate are listed on the student's transcript, however the advisory certificate is not listed on the transcript. Many FHSU departments provide a completion certificate that students may use to show they completed the advised coursework, and talk about what it added to their degree. Non-degree students may complete the classes outlined in an advisory certificate and receive a completion certificate if offered by the department, however they are not enrolled in a degree plan or eligible for student aid.