The QualCert Level 6 Diploma in Psychiatry (Dip P) is a specialised qualification designed for healthcare professionals seeking to advance their expertise in mental health and psychiatric practice. This diploma provides an in-depth understanding of psychiatric theory, clinical assessment, diagnostic techniques, therapeutic interventions, and the latest developments in mental health care. It is specifically tailored for professionals who wish to enhance their career prospects, expand their clinical knowledge, and strengthen their Continuing Professional Development (CPD).
This qualification is not intended for fresh candidates. Learners enrolling in the Level 6 Diploma in Psychiatry are expected to have prior professional experience in healthcare or mental health settings, enabling them to apply advanced theoretical knowledge directly to clinical practice. The programme covers a broad spectrum of topics, including psychiatric disorders, psychopharmacology, psychological therapies, crisis management, and patient-centred care planning. Learners will develop critical thinking, problem-solving, and evidence-based decision-making skills essential for delivering high-quality psychiatric care.
Centres delivering this diploma must meet rigorous requirements to ensure the highest standards of training and assessment. They are required to have qualified and experienced staff with specialised knowledge in psychiatry, along with access to up-to-date clinical resources, learning materials, and facilities that support advanced study. This ensures learners receive professional guidance and the tools necessary to achieve success.
The QualCert Level 6 Diploma in Psychiatry (Dip P) empowers healthcare professionals to deepen their clinical expertise, refine practical skills, and gain recognition for their advanced capabilities, making it a valuable step in career development within the field of psychiatry.
Course Contents of QualCert Level 6 Diploma in Psychiatry (Dip P):
The QualCert Level 6 Diploma in Psychiatry (Dip P) consists of a structured set of study units designed to provide learners with in-depth and comprehensive knowledge. The qualification includes a total of 1200 Total Qualification Time (TQT), 600 Guided Learning Hours (GLH), and awards 120 credits.
| Unit Ref# | Unit Title | Credits | GLH | TQT |
| QC27162- 1 | Advanced Psychiatric Theory and Mental Health Fundamentals | 20 | 100 | 200 |
| QC27162-2 | Psychiatric Assessment and Diagnostic Techniques | 20 | 100 | 200 |
| QC27162-3 | Psychopharmacology and Therapeutic Interventions | 20 | 100 | 200 |
| QC27162-4 | Management of Psychiatric Disorders and Complex Cases | 20 | 100 | 200 |
| QC27162-5 | Patient-Centred Care, Crisis Management, and Rehabilitation | 20 | 100 | 200 |
| QC27162-6 | Research, Evidence-Based Practice, and Professional Development in Psychiatry | 20 | 100 | 200 |
Entry Requirements for the QualCert Level 6 Diploma in Psychiatry (Dip P):
- Minimum Age: Learners must be at least 21 years old at the time of registration.
- Educational Background: A recognised Level 5 qualification in healthcare, nursing, psychology, or a related field is required. Equivalent professional qualifications may also be considered.
- Professional Experience: This diploma is intended for experienced healthcare practitioners. Learners must have prior professional practice in clinical or mental health settings to provide a foundation for advanced psychiatric study.
- Language Proficiency: As the programme is delivered in English, learners must demonstrate strong written and spoken English skills. Centres may require evidence of language proficiency.
- Commitment to CPD: Applicants should demonstrate a clear commitment to Continuing Professional Development (CPD) and career advancement in mental health or psychiatry.
- Access to Required Resources: Learners must have access to clinical environments, psychiatric tools, research materials, and digital learning resources necessary to support advanced study and practical application.
These requirements ensure learners are well-prepared to engage with the Level 6 Diploma in Psychiatry, develop advanced skills, and achieve professional growth in the field of mental health.
Learning Outcomes for the QualCert Level 6 Diploma in Psychiatry (Dip P):
Advanced Psychiatric Theory and Mental Health Fundamentals
- Demonstrate comprehensive knowledge of psychiatric theories and mental health principles
- Analyse biological, psychological, and social factors influencing mental health
- Evaluate the impact of mental health conditions on individuals and communities
- Apply theoretical knowledge to support clinical practice and decision-making
Psychiatric Assessment and Diagnostic Techniques
- Conduct thorough mental health assessments using advanced clinical tools
- Interpret diagnostic information to identify psychiatric conditions accurately
- Utilise structured interviews, psychological testing, and observational methods effectively
- Integrate assessment findings into personalised treatment plans
Psychopharmacology and Therapeutic Interventions
- Apply in-depth knowledge of psychotropic medications and their mechanisms of action
- Evaluate benefits, risks, and limitations of pharmacological interventions
- Implement psychological and behavioural therapies as part of holistic patient care
- Monitor and adjust treatment plans based on clinical outcomes
Management of Psychiatric Disorders and Complex Cases
- Develop evidence-based management strategies for common and complex psychiatric conditions
- Apply multidisciplinary approaches in the treatment of mental health disorders
- Address ethical, legal, and cultural considerations in patient care
- Evaluate treatment effectiveness and adapt interventions as needed
Patient-Centred Care, Crisis Management, and Rehabilitation
- Design and implement patient-centred care plans for mental health recovery
- Manage psychiatric crises and emergency situations safely and effectively
- Support rehabilitation, social reintegration, and long-term recovery strategies
- Promote patient engagement, empowerment, and adherence to treatment
Research, Evidence-Based Practice, and Professional Development in Psychiatry
- Critically appraise current psychiatric research and integrate findings into practice
- Conduct small-scale research projects or clinical audits in mental health settings
- Apply evidence-based approaches to improve patient care and outcomes
- Demonstrate commitment to lifelong learning and Continuing Professional Development (CPD)
The QualCert Level 6 Diploma in Psychiatry (Dip P) is designed for experienced healthcare professionals seeking to advance their knowledge and expertise in mental health and psychiatric care. This qualification is not suitable for fresh candidates and is aimed at practitioners with prior clinical or mental health experience who are committed to enhancing their skills, knowledge, and Continuing Professional Development (CPD).
This course is ideal for:
- Medical doctors and psychiatrists looking to specialise or deepen their expertise in psychiatry
- Nurses and nurse practitioners working in mental health settings
- Psychologists and allied health professionals involved in psychiatric care
- Healthcare practitioners supporting crisis intervention, rehabilitation, and patient-centred mental health care
- Professionals seeking to develop advanced skills in psychiatric assessment, diagnosis, and treatment
Learners undertaking this diploma will already have a professional healthcare background and a commitment to applying advanced psychiatric knowledge to improve patient outcomes and strengthen their career prospects.
Centres wishing to deliver the QualCert Level 6 Diploma in Psychiatry (Dip P) must demonstrate their ability to provide high-quality training, assessment, and learner support. To ensure learner success and maintain the integrity of the qualification, centres must meet the following requirements:
- Qualified Staff: Tutors and assessors must be suitably qualified, experienced, and competent in psychiatry, mental health, or related healthcare disciplines.
- Learning Resources: Centres must provide access to up-to-date learning materials, clinical guidelines, case studies, and digital resources to support advanced psychiatric study.
- Clinical Facilities: Learners must have access to appropriate mental health settings, diagnostic tools, and clinical resources for practical application.
- Assessment and Quality Assurance: Robust internal assessment systems and quality assurance procedures must be in place to ensure reliability, consistency, and fairness in learner evaluation.
- Learner Support: Centres must provide guidance, mentoring, and academic support to ensure learners can achieve their full potential.
- Compliance: All delivery and assessment practices must adhere to QualCert’s quality assurance policies and the standards required for Level 6 qualifications.
These requirements ensure learners receive a structured, professional, and supportive learning environment, enabling them to develop advanced psychiatric skills, knowledge, and competencies for career progression.