Description and Learning Outcomes

Program Description

The mental health field prepares students for careers in a range of areas with the goal of improve the lives of individuals and/or larger communities. Typical areas of work include nonprofit and for-profit agencies and state and local governments that involve assessment, program development and implementation, program evaluation, and research. Populations typically served within the field include the developmentally disabled, the elderly, immigrants and refugees, individuals with substance abuse disorders, and mental health disorders, and victims and offenders of crime. Professionals in the field are adept at coordinating and implementing well-rounded care.

The bachelor’s degree program may be completed in 4 years for students who carry a full course load of 30 credits per year.

The associate’s degree program may be completed in 2 years for students who carry a full course load of 30 credits per year.

Learning Outcomes

Students in the Community Mental Health major

• explain the major concepts, theoretical perspectives, empirical findings, and historical trends in the mental health field.
• will employ the scientific approach to solve problems and to categorize theory, theoretical perspectives, and empirical findings in various domains of the mental health field.  
• will construct ethical values and socially responsible environments that underpin the scientific field of mental health.
• will perform oral and written communication skills in a variety of settings. 
• will employ knowledge, skills, and values in occupational pursuits.