Build specialist expertise in forensic mental health practice.
Why study postgraduate Forensic Mental Health?
Forensic Mental Health at Otago helps you deepen your understanding of how mental health and the justice system connect. You will explore how mental disorders are assessed and treated in legal and secure settings, how legislation shapes care, and what it takes to manage risk with compassion and clarity. Our focus is on building practical expertise that matters in Aotearoa New Zealand, delivered by people leading clinical practice and research in this field. The programme supports you to think critically, practise ethically, and contribute to services that protect communities while respecting the dignity of those you work alongside.
Career opportunities
This programme equips you with specialist knowledge for advancing your career in health and justice fields. You’ll be ready to contribute at the interface of mental health care and legal systems. Potential pathways include:
- Forensic mental health clinician
- Correctional mental health specialist
- Court liaison or expert witness consultant
- Policy adviser in health or justice sectors
- Risk assessment and rehabilitation coordinator
What it’s like to study at this level
At Otago you’ll learn through a mix of advanced coursework and practical engagement. You’ll study current forensic psychiatry concepts, legislation and risk management, and apply this knowledge to real scenarios. You’ll learn from national leaders in clinical and academic practice, share ideas with peers from diverse professional backgrounds, and explore complex case examples that bring theory to life. Teaching is flexible with face-to-face blocks in Christchurch supplemented by rich online learning that supports deep reflection and real-world application.
This is for you if ...
This programme suits graduates or health professionals with experience in mental health, nursing, psychology, social work or related practice, and a strong interest in the intersection of care and justice.
Become part of New Zealand’s forensic mental health community
At the University of Otago you will join a community with a strong reputation for health and behavioural sciences. This postgraduate programme is delivered through the Department of Psychological Medicine at the Christchurch campus, where academic and clinical expertise come together. You’ll learn from staff who lead practice and research in forensic mental health and connect with peers across Aotearoa. Teaching combines face-to-face workshops with flexible online learning that respects your work and life commitments.
Choose a study option
Whether you are advancing your career with our specialised graduate qualifications or pursuing in-depth research and expertise through our postgraduate programmes, Otago is here to support your aspirations.
Postgraduate qualifications
Honours, masters’, PhDs, and other advanced degrees for graduates. Just one additional year of study will earn you a valuable postgraduate degree. Or perhaps you want the depth of a full year of research-only time during a master’s or to step up to a PhD.
Ready to apply?
Take your expertise to the next level with advanced study.
Programme details
Compare programmes for this subject.
Contacts
Email postgrad.uoc@otago.ac.nz
Website Postgraduate Certificate in Health Sciences endorsed in Forensic Mental Health
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