There is a rapidly growing need for a skilled workforce in forensic mental health in NSW and beyond. The criminal aspects of forensic mental health services are largely provided for by NSW Justice Health, and the development of new facilities will require additional, suitably-qualified staff for the foreseeable future. Forensic psychiatry private practice provides further opportunities for practitioners.

The Graduate Certificate in Forensic Mental Health offers you training in forensic mental health, covering the theoretical and practical aspects of criminal, civil, child and family forensic mental health sub-speciality. The program aims to provide specialised levels of expertise in the clinical and legal aspects of Law and Forensic Mental Health to an emerging skilled multidisciplinary workforce.

It draws upon the existing body of leading expertise in law, medicine and nursing, and the rich clinical resources of the Justice Health Long Bay Matraville complex which includes the high secure Forensic Hospital. The program is entirely online, through video lectures, forums and activities.

This degree is designed for mental health professionals including medical practitioners, nurses, psychologists, social workers and occupational therapists. The program is also open for members of the legal profession, corrections, police and criminologists.

Why study at UNSW?

Leverage our industry connections

The program is proud to have an active role in transforming mental health work in correctional facilities across NSW. We’re also working toward tailoring the program to increase its interstate and international engagement through our global partners. This program draws upon the rich clinical resources of the Justice Health Long Bay Matraville complex, which includes the high secure forensic hospital.