Overview
The Advanced Social Work Studies (Mental Health Officer Award) programme at The University of Edinburgh focuses upon the role of the MHO in relation to relevant Scottish legislation.
Under Section 32(2) of the Mental Health (Care and Treatment) (Scotland) Act 2003 (the 2003 Act), local authorities have a statutory duty to appoint MHOs to undertake mandatory responsibilities, enshrined in legislation, currently:
- the 2003 Act
- the Adults with Incapacity (Scotland) Act 2000
- the Criminal Procedures (Scotland) Act 1995
The programme also prepares MHOs to integrate knowledge of other relevant legislation, including:
- the Adult Support and Protection (Scotland) Act 2007
Its primary aim is to provide the Advanced Social Work Studies (Mental Health Officer Award) in partnership with the East of Scotland MHO Award Partnership.
Career opportunities
The programme is unique in that you are employed by your sponsoring local authority, however the Advanced Social Work Studies (Mental Health Officer Award) confirms the ability to practice as an MHO and thus widens career opportunities with current employers and across the Scottish local authority sector.
Programme Structure
The programme comprises four courses and two practice placements which are taught over one academic year.
We start with two days induction in mid-October followed by the first course, which begins in late November/December.
It provides an introduction to some of the key issues and current thinking in the field of mental health and encourages students to take a critical look at subjects and concepts including mental illness, psychiatric diagnoses, recovery and contemporary developments in mental health law.
The subsequent three courses are structured around the main statutes that frame the MHO role, namely:
- The Mental Health (Care and Treatment) (Scotland) Act 2003
- The Criminal Procedures (Scotland) Act 1995
- The Adults with Incapacity (Scotland) Act 2000
Teaching and learning activities enable students to gain a detailed understanding of this framework and how it interfaces with adult protection legislation.
Key information
Duration
- Part-time
- 12 months
Start dates & application deadlines
- StartingApply anytime.
Language
Credits
Delivered
Disciplines
Psychology Sociology View 566 other Masters in Sociology in United KingdomAcademic requirements
English requirements
Other requirements
General requirements
- A UK 2:1 honours degree or its international equivalent, or a recognised qualification in social work and at least two years' relevant experience in social work practice.
- If you are a qualified social worker but you do not hold a degree-level qualification, you may ask for special consideration when applying.
- You must be employed, supported, and seconded by one of the 12 employing local authorities within the East of Scotland MHO Partnership catchment area.
Tuition Fee
Living costs for Edinburgh
The living costs include the total expenses per month, covering accommodation, public transportation, utilities (electricity, internet), books and groceries.
Funding
Studyportals Tip: Students can search online for independent or external scholarships that can help fund their studies. Check the scholarships to see whether you are eligible to apply. Many scholarships are either merit-based or needs-based.