COURSE CURRICULUM

The MSc Mental Health and Psychosocial Support (MHPSS) at Queen Margaret University offers flexible study pathways leading to a Postgraduate Certificate (PgCert), Postgraduate Diploma (PgDip), or full MSc qualification. For the PgCert, students complete 60 credits, including two specialist modules: Community-Based Mental Health and Psychosocial Support in Humanitarian, Development and Health Settings, which explores global approaches to mental health and wellbeing, community-based interventions, international frameworks, and strategies to reduce the global mental health gap; and Project Design and Management, which develops the practical skills needed to design, monitor, and coordinate effective health and psychosocial support programmes in emergency, recovery, and development settings. Students also select an additional 20-credit module from subjects such as health systems, gender and reproductive health, epidemiology, climate and health, and disease prevention. Students who do not complete the two specialist modules receive a general PgCert in Global Health without specialisation. The PgDip requires 120 credits and includes additional core modules in Key Concepts, Key Methods, and Key Practice in Health and Development, providing a strong foundation in global health theories, research methodologies, and practical approaches to improving health systems and population wellbeing. The programme emphasises community-based approaches, systems thinking, inclusivity, and evidence-based interventions to address mental health and psychosocial challenges in humanitarian and fragile settings. To achieve the full MSc qualification, students must also complete a 60-credit Dissertation involving either desk-based research or fieldwork on an approved topic related to mental health and psychosocial support. This independent research project enables students to apply their knowledge to real-world issues and contribute to improving mental health policies and practices. Overall, the programme equips graduates with advanced knowledge, practical skills, and research expertise needed for leadership roles in humanitarian organisations, international development agencies, health systems, and community-based programmes that support the mental health and wellbeing of vulnerable populations worldwide.