Feb 23, 2025  
2025-2026 Course Catalog 
    
2025-2026 Course Catalog

Mental and Behavioral Health Worker Certificate


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Total Credits: 17

Major Number: 5923
CIP Code: 51.1502

Program Description

Program Description

This certificate prepares students to enter the workplace as a Mental and Behavioral Health Worker or Mental Health Rehabilitation Worker. There are a wide range of job titles associated with these positions, but most people in these roles work directly with individuals with mental health diagnoses by interviewing them to obtain information, assisting with daily activities, implementing treatment plans, and monitoring behavior and care. They may work in hospitals, clinics, 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 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.

This certificate can be completed either as a stand-alone credential as a way to enter the workforce early, or as a step on the way to completing either the Mental Health Practitioner certificate, the Psychology AA degree, or both. All courses in this certificate count for credit in both the Mental Health Practitioner Certificate and the Psychology AA degree. This certificate can also be completed by students pursuing careers that require interaction with the public to provide them with additional training in psychology and mental health, as well as skills for working with individuals with mental health concerns.

Program Prerequisites

None

Special Instructions

None

Program Requirements


Total Credits: 6


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


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.

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:

  • Identify common psychological disorders in the DSM and their evidence-based treatments, including medication
  • Explain how person-centered, strengths-based approaches are used in the mental health field
  • Demonstrate interpersonal communication skills that are effective in mental health work, including supportive communication and de-escalation
  • Explain the importance of ethical and professional behavior in the mental health setting
  • Explain how biological, psychological, environmental, and cultural factors impact mental health
  • Demonstrate interviewing, assessment, and writing skills appropriate for the mental health field
  • Apply psychological principles in an internship setting

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 651.444.2190 or emailing access.center@century.edu.

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