Dec 03, 2024  
2024-2025 Course Catalog 
    
2024-2025 Course Catalog

Mental and Behavioral Health Worker Certificate


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Total Credits: 22

Major Number: 5923
CIP Code: 51.1502

Program Description

This certificate prepares students to enter the workplace as an entry-level Mental and Behavioral Health Worker. There are a wide range of job titles associated with this position, but most Mental and Behavioral Health Workers work directly with individuals with mental health diagnoses by interviewing them to obtain information, assisting with daily activities, and monitoring behavior and care. They may work in hospitals, residential facilities, at patients’ homes, or other locations in the community. The coursework in this certificate provides students with the theoretical and practical knowledge about mental health, human development, and psychological principles that they will need for these positions, and prepares students to provide direct patient care under the supervision of a mental health or medical professional. However, it does not prepare students to conduct psychotherapy independently. The certificate can be a valuable complement to the Psychology AA degree, as it allows students to work in the mental health field while they continue their education in Psychology. It may also be an option for students pursuing careers that require interaction with the public to provide them with training in psychological and mental health topics.

Program Prerequisites

None

Special Instructions

None

Program Requirements


Total Credits: 8


Career/Occupational Electives Requirements


None

MnTC/General Education Requirements


Goal 1: Communication


Total Credits: 4

Goal 5: History/Social/Behavioral Sciences


Total Credits: 7

Total Credits: 11


MnTC Elective Requirements


Select at least one based on career goals

Total Credits: 3


Additional Elective Requirements


Additional Requirements


None

Program Information


General Requirements for Degrees, Diplomas, and Certificates

See Century College Policy 3.17.0.1

Program Note

  • Each course applied to the certificate must be completed with a grade of C or higher.
  • Students are encouraged to select the elective that best fits with their career goals. For example, if your goal is to work with children or adolescents, PSYC 2043 or PSYC 2044 is recommended. If your goal is to work with older adults, PSYC 2045 is recommended. If you are unsure or would like to work with a broad range of ages, PSYC 1041 is recommended.

Transfer, Articulation Agreements, and Partnerships

See the Century College website for information regarding transfer.
This program is intended primarily for employment preparation rather than transfer to a four-year institution. Some courses may not transfer to a number of four-year colleges. If you are considering the possibility of transfer, you may wish to talk with your advisor, counselor, or program instructor before registering to discuss your goals, look at programs designed for transfer, and develop a plan.

Program Learning Outcomes

At the end of this program students will be able to:

  • Explain how biological, psychological, and environmental factors affect mental health
  • Describe common psychological disorders in the DSM, including their treatments
  • Identify the types of psychotropic medications used with children and adults, as well as their potential side effects
  • Explain physical, cognitive, and psychosocial developmental changes throughout at least one age group (childhood, adolescence, or adulthood)
  • Describe societal attitudes toward mental illness within contemporary society
  • Demonstrate interpersonal communication skills that are effective in mental health-related situations, including de-escalation and redirecting behavior
  • Apply psychological principles in an internship setting
  • Demonstrate case management and interviewing skills

Program Contact Information

Dr. Jessie Breyer-Peterson 651.779.3454 Room 3456 West

Sample Plan


Please note that this is a sample course sequence. Individual schedules will vary depending upon student needs, goals, and availability. Students are recommended to meet with their advisor, counselor, or faculty program instructors to create an individualized plan that includes prerequisites and application requirements. For detailed program information see the Century College website. This information is subject to change.

Note


This information is subject to change. Changes and updates are posted on century.edu

Century College is a member of Minnesota State. We are an affirmative action, equal opportunity employer and educator.
This document can be available in alternative formats to individuals with disabilities by calling 651.773.1745 or emailing access.center@century.edu.

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