PGDip Creative Arts and Mental Health

On this programme you will explore the history, theory and practice of performance and other art forms in relation to all aspects of mental health and the representation, prevention and treatment of mental illness.

You will be encouraged to consider how the creative arts can be used to think critically about concepts and experiences of mental health and the mental health system. You will consider ways of engaging the public with these concerns. You will undertake a critical analysis of the scientific method(s) of mental health research and practice and explore the use of arts-based research, evaluation and dissemination methods.

The programme is not clinical, therefore you will not leave with a clinical accreditation in mental health practice or art therapy. Rather, the course is based on practice, research and critical thinking. You will be encouraged to develop your own specialist interest in relation to the arts and mental health, whether you come from an arts or a science background.

We aim to develop genuine best practices for better, more effective collaborations among arts practitioners, healthcare practitioners and patients, so we can best serve the interests of all who work within mental health and social care systems.

You may have to pay for entrance charges and travel for performances, exhibitions and field visits, although such costs will be kept to a minimum. Set books are usually available through the library, but you may wish to buy your own copy in some instances.