Graduate Certificate in Forensic Mental Health Nursing

Overview

The Graduate Certificate in Forensic Mental Health Nursing and the Graduate Diploma of Forensic Mental Health Nursing form part of the broad suite of courses in forensic psychology and forensic mental health at Swinburne University of Technology. In particular, the units in the certificate form part of the subjects that lead to the Master of Forensic Behavioural Science. The subjects will also be of interest to some students pursuing postgraduate training in psychology.

The course provides a comprehensive introduction to the principles and practice of nursing in forensic mental health, including key legal principles and legislation and core clinical skills (such as violence risk assessment and management), enabling graduates to work effectively in forensic contexts or with forensic patients. This course is offered through the Centre for Forensic Behavioural Science at Swinburne, in collaboration with the Victorian Institute of Forensic Mental Health (Forensicare).

Aims and objectives

At the completion of the Graduate Certificate in Forensic Mental Health Nursing, students will be able to: 

• apply specialised knowledge of a broad range of theories and principles required for nursing practice in forensic mental health contexts
• apply specialised knowledge of the complex systemic and individual mental health factors that influence offending behaviour
• demonstrate an understanding of the range of complex factors that contribute to offending behaviour, both at a general and individual level
• identify and evaluate evidence that helps inform creative problem solving and decision making in the nursing role
• effectively communicate complex ideas in a coherent and informative manner with clients, carers and other health professionals
• adapt advanced knowledge and skills to the contexts of forensic mental health nursing, such as correctional or mental health settings
• adapt knowledge and core practice skills to develop, plan and implement responses to challenging issues faced by forensic mental health nurses.

Career opportunities

The Graduate Certificate in Forensic Mental Health Nursing provides advanced training to nurses who are working in, or are seeking to work in, forensic mental health contexts. Forensic mental health nurses work in a variety of settings including secure hospitals, courts and prisons. Additional knowledge and skills are required to work in this field beyond those required of general mental health nurses.

Graduate skills

Swinburne intends that its teaching programs assist all its graduates to be:

• Capable in their chosen professional, vocational or study areas
• Entrepreneurial in contributing to innovation and development within their business, workplace or community
• Effective and ethical in work and community situations
• Adaptable to change
• Aware of local and international environments in which they are contributing (e.g. sociocultural, economic, natural).

Maximum Academic Credit

The maximum level of credit that can be granted for the Graduate Certificate in Forensic Mental Health Nursing is 25cp. credit points (normally two units).