Middlesex University London - Mental Health and Substance Use (Dual Diagnosis) MSc

Middlesex University London

Mental Health and Substance Use (Dual Diagnosis) MSc

The MSc Mental Health and Substance Use (Dual Diagnosis) is designed for those who want to expand their knowledge and understanding of issues relating to substance use, addictions, and mental health, including policies, practices, and interventions. It is relevant for those who are working in, associated with, or considering a career/preparing to enter this field. Students will be able to develop careers in practice, policy, and research. The opportunity to continue studies at the Doctoral level is also an option.

This is a part-time program taught through distance learning methods over two academic years (September start).

Why study MSc Mental Health and Substance Use (Dual Diagnosis) at Middlesex University?

This program aims to develop your mastery in mental health, addictions, and substance use-related skills and knowledge, for successful contribution to enhanced professional practice, leadership, policy, and service development within this field nationally and internationally across different cultural contexts. You will gain knowledge and expertise in critical analysis and utilizing advanced research skills, plus skills in analysis and critique of policy development, plus practice and leadership skills.

This program also aims to enhance your professional and career development across a range of professional contexts including in mental health, social care, youth justice, prisons and substance use services, and allied professions. You will undertake either a literature-based dissertation (60 credits at level 7) or a work-based project (60 credits at level 7).

This course will benefit individuals working in or with aspirations to work in:

  • mental health
  • drug and alcohol treatment and support sector
  • primary and community healthcare
  • criminal justice systems
  • government agencies
  • education
  • youth work
  • social work
  • allied health professions

Entry Requirements

  • A honours degree (2:2 or above) in any discipline.
  • Exceptionally, students who do not have a degree but can provide evidence of their ability to study at Masters's level may be considered.
  • All applicants have the option of going through the RPL process (recognition of Prior Learning) through Middlesex University, as part of the recruitment and selection process.  Students who meet the RPL criteria can carry forward a maximum of 60 credits at level 7 into the MSc.
  • Applicants who undertake WBH4760: Advanced Work Based Project should be working in an appropriate environment to be able to complete the project.

  • All applicants whose first language is not English are expected to demonstrate their English Language capability at the level required for post-graduate study (IELTS 6.5 or equivalent).


Course Details

The MSc Mental Health and Substance Use (Dual Diagnosis) course requires 180 credits to be completed, with those who have made a Recognised Prior Learning (RPL) claim carrying forward up to 60 credits at Level 7. Students must complete two core modules and two optional modules in Year 1, and in Year 2, they must complete a literature-based dissertation or work-based project, along with a research methods module. All modules are delivered through distance learning, and the availability of optional modules depends on cohort numbers. Decisions about options should consider personal circumstances, role, and career aspirations. Students will have the opportunity to discuss optional module choices and dissertation pathways with the Programme Leader before finalizing their choices.
Exit awards include the PGDip Mental Health and Substance Use (Dual Diagnosis) with 120 credits at level 7, and the PGCert Mental Health and Substance Use (Dual Diagnosis) with 60 credits at level 7. Optional modules are typically available at levels 5 and 6, but may not be offered on every course. If an optional module is not offered, the programme will advise students after the selection period or at the earliest time the programme team decides not to run the module and help them choose an alternative module.

Year 1

Core Modules
Critical Approaches to Dual Diagnosis (30 credits)
Evidence Based Interventions in Mental Health and Substance Use (30 credits)
Choose two of the following optional modules
Motivational interviewing: Strategies for lifestyle and behavioural changes (15 Credits) - Distance learning
Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (15 credits)
Risk Assessment and Safety Planning (15 credits)
Social Inclusion and Recovery in Mental Health (15 credits)
Substance Use and Addiction Theories (15 credits)
Service Delivery and Quality Improvement (15 credits)
Drugs and Crime (15 credits)
Leadership for Public and Community Services (15 credits)

Year 2

Research based modules
Advanced Practitioner Inquiry (30 credits)
Advanced Work Based Project (60 credits)
Developing Research Capability (60 credits)

*The information’s are correct at the time of publishing, however it may change if university makes any changes after we have published the information. While we try our best to provide correct information, It is advisable to call us or visit university website for up to date information.

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