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If you're an empathetic and compassionate person who wants to help others, a career in mental health could be fulfilling for you.
With a mental health certificate, you're prepared to work as a mental health professional in a variety of roles.
Some mental health certificates have no prerequisites, while others require you to have at least a bachelor's or master's degree.
Even better, an online program allows you to fit in your learning around your busy schedule without neglecting any existing responsibilities.
Top Online Mental Health Certificate Programs
Read on for more details about some of the best online mental health certificate programs in the country.
1. Eastern Kentucky University
At Eastern Kentucky University (EKU), you can earn a mental health certificate in just 18 credit hours of online coursework.
The 100% online program features asynchronous coursework so you can study when it's convenient for you.
EKU also offers free textbooks for online students as part of this program, along with online tutoring and career assistance.
Tuition starts at $636 per credit hour. Financial aid is available for qualifying students.
2. Loyola University Chicago
Loyola University Chicago offers an advanced school mental health practice certificate online through its School of Social Work.
Both hybrid and 100% online formats of this program are available. One in-person immersion weekend is required for all students.
This is a post-master's certificate program designed for people who are already working as mental health professionals in a school full-time.
Tuition is approximately $10,000 for the entire program, which breaks down to around $728 per credit hour plus fees.
3. University of Maryland Global Campus
The University of Maryland Global Campus offers an undergraduate certificate in clinical mental health care 100% online.
It's important to note that this certificate is not the same as state credentialing to practice as a mental health professional.
The program is designed to provide students with the foundation needed to work in clinical mental health care.
Tuition starts at $318 per credit hour for Maryland residents, or $499 per credit hour for out-of-state students.
4. University of Michigan
Get a certificate in integrated behavioral health and primary care from the University of Michigan's School of Social Work.
This certificate program is 100% online and is designed for working direct providers, such as social workers and nurses.
Take a pediatric track, adult track, or a combined dual-track program that covers both pediatric and adult care.
Tuition is assessed for the entire program and is $1,275 for a single-track program or $1,600 for the dual-track program.
5. University of North Dakota
The University of North Dakota (UND) offers a behavioral health certification program 100% online.
This is an undergraduate certificate program that allows you to start your career more quickly than if you earned a full bachelor's degree.
The program features asynchronous classes taught by the same UND professors who teach on campus.
Tuition starts at $384.88 per credit hour for North Dakota students, $431.07 for Minnesota students, or $577.32 for out-of-state students.
6. University of Redlands
The University of Redlands offers a 100% online certificate program on mental health and spirituality.
While the program is designed for psychologists, pastors, and other healthcare professionals, there are no requirements to enroll.
The program does lead to a certificate, but doesn't convert to academic credit hours and can't be applied toward a degree.
The program consists of five courses, each billed at a cost of $645 per course. Since this is not a for-credit program, financial aid isn't available.
7. University of South Dakota
From the University of South Dakota (USD), earn a certificate in mental health counseling 100% online.
USD's graduate certificate program is designed for working professionals who need additional credits to earn their certification.
This program alone typically won't qualify you for certification, depending on your state's licensing requirements.
Tuition for the online program is $470.15 per credit hour regardless of where you live. Financial aid is available for qualifying students.
FAQs About Mental Health Certification and Certificate Programs
Keep reading to find the answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about online mental health certificate programs.
Which Certificate Is Best for Mental Health?
It depends on what other education you have. If you don't have a bachelor's degree, an undergraduate certificate can get you started.
Graduate certificates are typically sought by working professionals who need additional credits to satisfy their state licensing requirements.
Do I Need a Mental Health Certificate to Work in Mental Health?
Not necessarily. You could get a bachelor's degree or a master's degree instead of getting a certificate.
However, a certificate program allows you to start working faster at a lower cost than a full degree.
Can I Earn a Mental Health Certificate 100% Online?
There are many great mental health certificate programs that are 100% online.
Most certificate programs don't have a practicum or fieldwork requirement either, which means you can complete them more quickly.
Find the Right School for Mental Health Certification Today
If you need a mental health certificate, an online program is the best way to get the credit hours you need for your credentials.
