Cambridge Advanced National in Mental Health: Individuals & Society (Level 3) - A Level equivalent
The Cambridge Advanced National in Mental Health: Individuals & Society is equivalent to one A Level. This course is a brand-new Level 3 qualification from OCR, designed for students who are interested in understanding how mental health affects individuals, communities, and society. It can be taken as a Certificate (H098) or an Extended Certificate (H198), making it flexible to study alongside other Level 3 AAQs or A Levels.
This course explores the fascinating world of mental health, wellbeing and human behaviour. You’ll learn how different factors (biological, psychological, and social) can affect mental health and how society’s understanding of mental health has evolved over time. You’ll also look at how organisations, workplaces, and communities can promote positive mental wellbeing.
Why choose this course?
Mental health awareness has never been more important. This course gives you the knowledge, confidence and practical skills to make a real difference in people’s lives. It will help you understand both the science and the social aspects of mental health.
The qualification has been developed with input from teachers, universities and employers to ensure it is relevant and up to date. It will help you build essential skills such as research, communication, teamwork, and independent study — all of which are valued in higher education and by employers. Whether you want to pursue a career in healthcare, education, counselling or social work, or simply want to gain a deeper understanding of mental health and wellbeing, this course is an excellent choice.
What will I learn?
Throughout your studies, you’ll explore a wide range of topics through both exams and coursework.
You’ll start with how mental ill health develops, the factors that influence it, and how society’s views and approaches have changed over time. You’ll then apply this knowledge to real-life situations, looking at how individuals and organisations can support positive mental health and wellbeing.
Core units include:
Fundamentals of Mental Health and the Individual – exploring the relationship between mental health, the brain and body, and factors that influence wellbeing.
Mental Health, Wellbeing and Society – investigating how attitudes to mental health have developed and how societal issues shape wellbeing today.
You’ll be assessed through a combination of external exams and internally marked coursework. Each unit is graded as Pass, Merit or Distinction, and your overall qualification grade is calculated from these results.
What will I need?
You will need 4 GCSEs at grade 4 including English.
An interest in people, wellbeing and health will help you get the most out of the course.
Where will it take me?
The skills you develop including empathy, communication, problem-solving and resilience are valuable in many professional settings and will help you stand out whatever career path you choose.
This course provides an excellent foundation for higher education in subjects such as:
- Psychology
- Mental Health Nursing
- Counselling
- Health Studies
- Social Work
You could also progress directly into employment or apprenticeships in roles such as:
- Mental Health Support Worker
- Youth Worker
- Wellbeing Coordinator
- Community Support Officer