University of Sydney Handbooks - 2012 Archive

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Brain and Mind Sciences

Graduate Certificate in Brain and Mind Sciences

(GradCertBMSc) KG019

Graduate Diploma in Brain and Mind Sciences

(GradDipBMSc) KF057

Master of Brain and Mind Sciences

(MBMSc) KC089

Master of Brain and Mind Sciences in Psychiatry

(MBMScPsychiatry) KC090

Course Credit points for award Duration full-time Duration part-time
GradCertBMSc 24 not available 1 to 3 years
GradDipBMSc 36 1 year 1.5 to 3 years
MBMSc 48 1 year 2 to 6 years
MBMScPsychiatry 72 not available Available from 2013
Overview

The Brain and Mind Sciences program strongly promotes the idea of interdisciplinary research, broadening the scope of investigation to address disease areas of the brain and mind rather than disparate biomedical disciplines. It is the link between basic and clinical research that is particularly promoted by the Brain and Mind Research Institute. This provides a unique opportunity for students to have access to specialised training and will equip them with a valuable understanding of interdisciplinary research, open opportunities for future research collaborations, as well as refining specific skills and methodology in mental health research and clinical service provision. For example, in the search to ameliorate dementia, whether the postgraduate student is scientific or clinical, they will receive core training exposing them to the connection between basic laboratory research in Alzheimer's, Parkinson's and prion disease; access to human imaging facilities for research to better understand active processes within the brain; clinical neuropsychological principles and interventions in degenerative dementias such as cognitive behavioural therapy and the clinical treatment of movement disorders.

Course outcomes

Graduates of the Master of Brain and Mind Sciences will be able to:

  • identify, explain and contrast principles and methods of the brain and mind sciences
  • apply the basic knowledge, principles and methods to problems of professional practice (research and/or clinical)
  • demonstrate the skills and attitudes to engage in interdisciplinary research and/or clinical practice
  • demonstrate specific skills in the use of relevant procedures, technologies and techniques in relation to research investigation, clinical assessment, diagnosis and management of brain and mind disorders
  • demonstrate the skills and attitudes to exhibit initiative and self-reliance in critically evaluating and synthesising ideas and information related to the units, and
  • make evidence-based decisions and recommendations in research and/or clinical practice.

Graduates of the Master of Brain and Mind Sciences in Psychiatry will be able to display the following attributes:

  • Application of the academic knowledge, clinical skills and professional attitudes required in the provision of patient care across the lifespan in hospital, community, urban, rural and remote settings, and with regard to indigenous issues.
  • Effective facilitation of the doctor patient relationship, enabling patient-centred care through shared decision-making and effective interactions with patients, families, caregivers and other professionals.
  • Working in partnership with a multi-disciplinary team of expert health professionals for the provision of optimal patient care, education and research in brain and mind health.
  • Ability to critically evaluate principles and methods of the brain and mind sciences, and make evidence based decisions and recommendations in research and clinical practice.
  • Understanding the principles of health service management and their role as professionals in leadership and supervision, resource allocation and quality improvement.
  • Identifying and responding to the needs of those suffering from brain and mind disorders through advocacy and promoting public health policy change.
  • Commitment to ongoing learning and the creation, critical appraisal, dissemination and translation of scientific knowledge to clinical application in neurosciences and mental health.
  • Demonstration of specific skills in the use of relevant procedures, technologies and techniques in relation to clinical research investigation, clinical assessment, diagnosis and management of brain and mind disorders.

Degree resolutions

Sydney Medical School resolutions and the printed handbook are the official statement of faculty policy. The resolutions contained in the printed handbook are accurate as at August 2011. If a conflict is perceived between the content of the printed handbook and information available elsewhere, Sydney Medical School resolutions and the information available in the handbook online shall always take precedence. See the handbook online website:
sydney.edu.au/handbooks/medicine/
See the Policy Online website: sydney.edu.au/policy, for copies of University policies.

 

Graduate Certificate in Brain and Mind Sciences

Graduate Diploma in Brain and Mind Sciences

Master of Brain and Mind Sciences

Master of Brain and Mind Sciences in Psychiatry


These resolutions must be read in conjunction with applicable University By-laws, Rules and policies including (but not limited to) the University of Sydney (Coursework) Rule 2000 (the 'Coursework Rule'), the Resolutions of the Faculty, the University of Sydney (Student Appeals against Academic Decisions) Rule 2006 (as amended) and the Academic Board policies on Academic Dishonesty and Plagiarism.

Course resolutions

1 Course codes

Code Course title
KG019 Graduate Certificate in Brain and Mind Sciences
KF057 Graduate Diploma in Brain and Mind Sciences
KC089 Master of Brain and Mind Sciences
KC090 Master of Brain and Mind Sciences in Psychiatry

2 Attendance pattern

The attendance pattern for these courses is full time or part time according to candidate choice, except for the Graduate Certificate in Brain and Mind Sciences and Master of Brain and Mind Sciences in Psychiatry, which are part time only.

3 Master's type

The master's degrees in these resolutions are professional master's courses, as defined by the Coursework Rule.

4 Embedded courses in this sequence

(1)
The embedded courses in this sequence are:
(a)
the Graduate Certificate in Brain and Mind Sciences
(b)
the Graduate Diploma in Brain and Mind Sciences
(c)
the Master of Brain and Mind Sciences
(d)
the Master of Brain and Mind Sciences in Psychiatry.
(2)
Providing candidates satisfy the admission requirements for each stage, a candidate may progress to the award of any of the courses in this sequence. Only the longest award completed will be conferred.

5 Admission to candidature

(1)
Available places will be offered to qualified applicants based on merit, according to the following admissions criteria. In exceptional circumstances the Dean may admit applicants without these qualifications who, in the opinion of the Faculty, have qualifications, evidence of experience and achievement sufficient to successfully undertake the award.
(2)
Admission to the Graduate Certificate in Brain and Mind Sciences requires:
a bachelor's degree in a relevant discipline from the University of Sydney or equivalent qualification, and
satisfactory performance at an interview as required.
(3)
Admission to the Graduate Diploma in Brain and Mind Sciences requires:
a bachelor's degree in a relevant discipline from the University of Sydney or equivalent qualification, and
satisfactory performance at an interview as required.
(4)
Admission to the Master of Brain and Mind Sciences requires:
a bachelor's degree in a relevant discipline from the University of Sydney or equivalent qualification, and
satisfactory performance at an interview as required.
(5)
Admission to the Master of Brain and Mind Sciences in Psychiatry requires:
a Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery from an Australian university or an equivalent qualification, and
satisfactory performance at an interview as required.

6 Requirements for award

(1)
The units of study that may be taken for the courses are set out in the Table of Units of Study: Brain and Mind Sciences.
(2)
To qualify for the award of the Graduate Certificate in Brain and Mind Sciences a candidate must successfully complete 24 credit points of core units of study.
(3)
To qualify for the award of the Graduate Diploma in Brain and Mind Sciences, a candidate must successfully complete 36 credit points, including:
(a)
24 credit points of core units of study; and
(b)
12 credit points of elective units of study.
(4)
To qualify for the award of the Master of Brain and Mind Sciences, a candidate must successfully complete 48 credit points, including:
(a)
24 credit points of core units of study; and
(b)
12 credit points of elective units of study; and
(c)
12 credit points of research units of study.
(5)
To qualify for the award of the Master of Brain and Mind Sciences in Psychiatry, a candidate must successfully complete 72 credit points, including:
(a)
60 credit points of units of study; and
(b)
12 credit points of research units of study.

7 Transitional provisions

(1)
These resolutions apply to persons who commenced their candidature after 1 January, 2011 and persons who commenced their candidature prior to 1 January, 2011 who formally elect to proceed under these resolutions.
(2)
Candidates who commenced prior to 1 January, 2011 complete the requirements in accordance with the resolutions in force at the time of their commencement.

Table of units of study: Brain and Mind Sciences

Unit of study Credit points A: Assumed knowledge P: Prerequisites C: Corequisites N: Prohibition Session

Core units

BMRI5002
Pre-clinical Brain and Mind Sciences
6      Semester 1
BMRI5003
Applied Brain and Mind Sciences
6    P BMRI5002
Semester 2
BMRI5004
Clinical Brain and Mind Sciences
6      Semester 2

Additional core unit of study for master's students

BMRI5020
Research Inquiry
6      Semester 1

Elective units

BMRI5001
Hist, Phil & Ethics of Brain & Mind Sci
6      Semester 1
BMRI5006
Cognitive Behaviour Therapy
6      Semester 2
BMRI5007
Neuropsychology
6      Semester 1
BMRI5010
Brain and Mind Disorders in Childhood
6      Semester 1
BMRI5011
Brain and Mind Disorders in Youth
6      Semester 2
BMRI5012
Brain & Mind Disorders Related to Ageing
6      Semester 2
BMRI5013
Applied Neuropsychopharmacology
6      Semester 1
BMRI5017
Genetic Principles of Neural Development
6   
Note: Department permission required for enrolment

Semester 2
BMRI5025
Tobacco Dependence and Treatment
6      Semester 2
BMRI5026
Suicide and Suicide Prevention
6      Semester 1
BMRI5027
Leadership and Policy in Mental Health 1
6   

Students may enrol in this unit of study without having to complete BMRI 5028 'Leadership and Policy in Mental Health 2' However, if you wish to undertake BMRI 5028 'Leadership and Policy in Mental Health 2, then you must complete this Unit.
Semester 1
BMRI5028
Leadership and Policy in Mental Health 2
6    P BMRI5027
Semester 2

Research units

BMRI5023
Research Activity 1
6    A To be determined by the supervisor.

Note: Department permission required for enrolment
Student needs to be nominated by an approved supervisor for admission into this unit of study. This unit of study provides laboratory experience within an area of need as determined by the supervisor.
Semester 1
Semester 2
BMRI5024
Research Activity 2
6    A To be determined by the supervisor.

Note: Department permission required for enrolment
Student needs to be nominated by an approved supervisor for admission into this unit of study. This unit of study provides laboratory experience within an area of need as determined by the supervisor.
Semester 1
Semester 2
Further enquiries

Student and Academic Coordinator
Phone: +61 2 9114 4048
Fax: +61 2 9114 4055
Email:


Website: sydney.edu.au/bmri/teaching

Pattern of enrolment for the Master of Brain and Mind Sciences in Psychiatry

The Masters of Brain and Mind Sciences in Psychiatry has been designed to meet the RANZCP Basic Training Curriculum Requirements. The sequence of units ensures content is covered in a logical progression.

Academic Year 1 Semester 1
Teaching period 1
UoS code and name
Credit points
BMRI5002 Pre-clinical Brain and Mind Sciences 6
BMRI5005 Clinical Assessment in Brain & Mind Sci 6
Academic Year 1 Semester 2
Teaching period 1
UoS code and name
Credit points
BMRI5003 Applied Brain and Mind Sciences 6
BMRI5004 Clinical Brain and Mind Sciences 6
Academic Year 2 Semester 1
Teaching period 1
UoS code and name
Credit points
BMRI5010 Brain and Mind Disorders in Childhood 6
BMRI5013 Applied Neuropsychopharmacology 6
Academic Year 2 Semester 2
Teaching period 1
UoS code and name
Credit points
BMRI5011 Brain and Mind Disorders in Youth 6
BMRI5012 Brain and Mind Disorders Related to Ageing 6
Academic Year 3 Semester 1
Teaching period 1
UoS code and name
Credit points
BMRI5009 Psychosocial Interventions and Service 6
BMRI5020 Research Inquiry 6
Academic Year 3 Semester 2
Teaching period 1
UoS code and name
Credit points
BMRI5008 Clinical Leadership and Management 6
BMRI5021 Research Design 6

Unit of study descriptions for 2012

BMRI5001 Hist, Phil & Ethics of Brain & Mind Sci

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Professor Max Bennett and Mr Sean Hatton Session: Semester 1 Classes: 1x 2 hour lecture per week Assessment: 2 x 2000 word essays (100%) Campus: Mallett Street Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) Evening
The history and philosophy section of this core unit examines the conceptual foundations of cognitive neuroscience in the context of animals' psychological abilities. These foundations are constituted by the relationships among the psychological concepts involved in investigations into the neural underpinnings of human cognitive, affective and volitional capacities. The ethics section examines the ethical considerations that arise from the rapid pace of research that has led to new ways of understanding brain function. The goal of this Unit of Study is to help students to identify key ethical, legal and social aspects of brain research in an attempt to develop protocols for thinking about potentially problematic areas. This knowledge will enhance the learner's ability to critically analyse given evidence to inform and improve scientific and clinical approaches to disorders of the brain and mind.
Textbooks
Specific reference material listed on LMS
BMRI5002 Pre-clinical Brain and Mind Sciences

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Associate Professor Vladimir Balcar Session: Semester 1 Classes: 1x 2 hour face-to-face classes per week Assessment: 2 x online questionnaires (40%), final exam (60%) Campus: Mallett Street Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) Evening
This unit of study is aimed at helping students to gain an understanding of general principles according to which the central nervous system is built. It will then focus on selected structures and functions and will examine their possible relationship in health and disease. The unit of study will focus on: neurobiology, genetics of brain and mind sciences, neuroanatomy and neural function. This introductory unit of study will provide a foundation for advanced learning in other units of study, and is a perquisite for the unit of study BMRI 5003.
Textbooks
Specific reference material listed on LMS
BMRI5003 Applied Brain and Mind Sciences

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Associate Professor Wayne Reid Session: Semester 2 Classes: 1x 2 hour face-to-face classes per week Prerequisites: BMRI5002 Assessment: e-tivitites and participation (10%), 1x case studies written assignment (20%), 2x online questionnaires (40%), participant conference (30%) Campus: Mallett Street Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) Evening
Building on BMRI5002, Applied Brain and Mind Sciences examines translational and clinical aspects of brain and mind sciences. These areas include structural and functional neuroimaging (PET, MRI, MRspectroscopy, fMRI), comparative neuropathology, and approaches to neuropharmacology, psychopharmocology, and neuropsychiatry. This introductory unit of study will provide a foundation for advanced learning in other units of study. BMRI5002 'Pre-Clinical Brain and Mind Sciences' is a prerequisite for BMRI5003 'Applied Brain and Mind Sciences'. Students must complete BMRI5002 'Pre-Clinical Brain and Mind Sciences' successfully prior to undertaking this unit of study.
Textbooks
Specific reference material listed on eLearning
BMRI5004 Clinical Brain and Mind Sciences

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Professor Ian Hickie and Mr Sean Hatton Session: Semester 2 Classes: 1x 2 hour face-to-face class per week Assessment: 3 x case study evaluation (100%) Campus: Mallett Street Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) Evening
This unit of study is designed to provide students with a deeper understanding of how genetic and environmental risk factors affect the developing nervous system to generate the clinical symptoms of a disordered mind. Students will learn to use new tools to understand which specific environmental factors occurring at specific points along the genetic and developmental course have the capacity to result in perturbations of central nervous system function. This Unit of Study focuses on diagnostic tools, the clinical staging model, and intervention strategies.
Textbooks
Specific reference material listed on LMS
BMRI5005 Clinical Assessment in Brain & Mind Sci

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Professor Ian Hickie Session: Semester 1 Classes: One 2 hour face to face class per week Assessment: 4 x MCQ (40%), 2 x Case Studies or 1 x Clinical Based Studies (40%), Participation and Attendance (20%) Campus: Camperdown/Darlington Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) Evening
Note: Department permission required for enrolment
Note: This unit of study is only available to students enrolled in Master of Brain and Mind Sciences in Psychiatry
This unit of study provides psychiatry trainees with an opportunity to develop effective clinical interview and assessment techniques. This unit will provide training in general assessment and history taking, specific issues surrounding child assessment, old age assessment and family assessment, the impact of comorbidities, and specific issues related to indigenous peoples. The unit will also address crisis and emergency assessment including tele-medicine assessment, joint assessment with GP's and e-health assessment.
Textbooks
Specific reference material listed on LMS
BMRI5006 Cognitive Behaviour Therapy

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: A/Prof Adam Guastella Session: Semester 2 Classes: Block/intensive mode 3 days 9am - 5pm Assessment: Online Quiz (15%), Written Report (35%), Extended Case Report (50%) Campus: Mallett Street Mode of delivery: Block Mode
Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT) is an evidence-based psychotherapy for a range of psychological disorders, with strong foundations in cognitive science, and now increasingly in neuroscience. This unit provides a solid foundation in the theoretical and clinical underpinnings of the therapy, with a specific focus on the neuroscience of CBT as applied to various conditions. It demonstrates techniques of CBT, including case assessment, formulation, and therapy components. Students will develop a neurobiological understanding of CBT interventions and examine practice through case examination and group exercises.
Textbooks
Specific reference material listed on LMS
BMRI5007 Neuropsychology

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Associate Professor Wayne Reid Session: Semester 1 Classes: Face-to-face evening classes - 2 hour lecture x 13 weeks Assessment: 1x 2500 word essay (40%), 1 group case study examination (30%), individual submission (30%) Campus: Mallett Street Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) Evening
This unit of study will enable students to understand the basic principles of brain behaviour relationships that underpin assessment of brain disorders. A wide range of neuropsychological syndromes, neuropsychiatric and neurological disorders will be examined. The unit of study will outline procedures for integrating medical, psychological and social information into neuropsychological assessment through case based learning. At the end of the unit of study you will have an awareness of the 'state of the art' in neuropsychological intervention/rehabilitation strategies for people with acquired brain impairment.
Textbooks
Specific reference material listed on LMS
BMRI5010 Brain and Mind Disorders in Childhood

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Dr Gillian Brooks, Dr Yoon Mei Ho, A/Prof Wayne Reid Session: Semester 1 Classes: 2 hour lecture x 13 weeks Assessment: 3x Case studies (100%) Campus: Mallett Street Mode of delivery: Block Mode
In this course students will study development of children across various levels of biopsychosocial function and across the age span from conception to adolescence. Key genetic, environmental and interactive contributions to brain development will be studied. This will include an understanding of some of the important developmental pathologies affecting children such as autism spectrum disorders and other cognitive and learning impairments, illustrated by conditions such as Down, Williams and Fragile X syndrome and ADHD. The Unit will also provide an understanding of the neuroscience basis of high prevalence conditions in childhood including disruptive disorders, anxiety and depression.
In addition, the Unit will address the development of interaction of the infant and child with others, including key issues in family development.
The key approach of the unit of study will be to provide students with the capacity to understand child and family psychopathology from the molecular level to the societal.
Textbooks
Specific reference material listed on LMS
BMRI5011 Brain and Mind Disorders in Youth

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Dr Elizabeth Scott Session: Semester 2 Classes: Face-to-face evening classes, 2 hour lecture x 13 weeks Assessment: 1x debate (40%), 1x case study (60%) Campus: Mallett Street Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) Evening
The brain undergoes significant changes during the adolescent period. These changes underpin the development of adult-like emotional regulation, thought processes, identity and interpersonal skills. Brain maturation is reflected by a movement from more immature and childlike cognitive process and impulsive behaviour towards more mature and sophisticated behaviour, cognitive processes and mood regulation. This progression in maturation is dependant on the continuing active development of the underlying brain structures, particularly those in the frontal and temporal lobes. Investigating these underlying brain processes is critical to our understanding of the development of adult psychiatric disorder. The implications of these neurobiological processes are profound and will assist in the understanding and management of the emerging adolescent as well as the established adult psychopathology.
Textbooks
Specific reference material listed on LMS
BMRI5012 Brain & Mind Disorders Related to Ageing

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Associate Professor Wayne Reid and Associate Professor Sharon Naismith Session: Semester 2 Classes: 9am - 5pm Monday 20th August, Monday 17th September, Monday 15th October, online participation Assessment: 1x essay (55%), 3x short case studies (45%) Campus: Mallett Street Mode of delivery: Block Mode
This postgraduate elective course intends to provide a comprehensive introduction to the discipline of disorders of the brain and mind related to ageing. It will focus on the neurodegenerative and neuropsychiatric processes, which are commonly seen within the elderly population. The unit will encompass an understanding of the pathophysiology underlying the clinical presentation of these conditions. Students will develop a familiarity of the neurological, neuropsychological, neuropsychiatric, neuroimaging aspects of these diseases and how they relate to clinical and research applications. This will provide students with an understanding of the common assessment methods and management of patients with these conditions. This unit will also provide the foundation for those students wishing to undertake a Masters or PhD in the areas of ageing brain disease and clinical neuroscience (workshop dates subject to change with advanced notice).
Textbooks
Specific reference material listed on LMS
BMRI5013 Applied Neuropsychopharmacology

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Professor Timothy Lambert Session: Semester 1 Classes: Block/intensive mode 3 days 9am - 5pm, online participation Assessment: participation and online activities (20%), 1x 3000 word essay (50%), oral presentation (30%) Campus: Mallett Street Mode of delivery: Block Mode
This elective will focus on the applied clinical neuropsychopharmacology of the major global mental disorders. The course will link aspects of basic preclinical science to clinical therapeutics with an emphasis on the psychotic and mood disorders (Anxiety, neuropsychiatric, geriatric, and developmental disorders will receive less attention). Potential linkages between neurotransmitters and brain circuitry (neuroimaging and histology) and phenomenology and behaviour will be stressed. Heuristic models of understanding the actions and the mechanisms (both positive and negative) of key treatment agents will extend from this. In addition the role of pharmacogenomics, ethnicity, and the potential for personalised treatments will be discussed. The aim of the course is to have participants acquire a solid scientific background to understanding how therapeutic agents may be used in clinical situations and to understand gaps in the evidence base that might be filled by further preclinical, clinical and translational research.
Textbooks
Specific reference material listed on LMS
BMRI5017 Genetic Principles of Neural Development

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Dr Naomi Wray and Professor Thomas Becker Session: Semester 2 Classes: Block/intensive mode 3 days 9am - 5pm, Friday 3rd August, 31st August, 12th October Assessment: 2x lab reports (2x30%), 1x literature review (30%), online particiation (10%) Campus: Mallett Street Mode of delivery: Block Mode
Note: Department permission required for enrolment
This unit of study is designed to provide an introduction to the genetics of neuropsychiatric disorders starting with genetic epidemiology. The unit will then focus on focus on genetic architecture, and the emerging evidence how this may differ between disorders of mental health. Workshop classes will cover database strategies used to describe and understand the underlying genetic etiology. A final workshop will look at lab-based animal models used to assess the function of genetic variants (workshop dates subject to change with advanced notice).
Textbooks
Specific reference material listed on LMS
BMRI5020 Research Inquiry

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Associate Professor Nick Glozier and Dr Michele Cavazzini Session: Semester 1 Classes: 2 hour lecture x 13 weeks Assessment: 1x literature critique exam (50%), 1x written submission review protocol (50%) Campus: Mallett Street Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) Day
This unit will develop the skills that are necessary for a critical appraisal of research literature. The unit will teach a familiarity with all the clinical research methods, with close reference to the published literature. Similarly, laboratory-based techniques will be examined, from in vitro methods to human psychophysics, with a goal of allowing students to become conversant in the translational aspects of neuroscience research. You will also learn the role of systematic reviews in the quantitative assessment of intervention trials and prevalence and epidemiology studies. You will study the stages surrounding planning, conducting and analysing a systematic review, and develop a procedural outline (or review protocol) for a proposed study of your own.
Textbooks
Specific reference material listed on LMS
BMRI5021 Research Design

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Associate Professor Nick Glozier and Dr Michele Cavazzini Session: Semester 2 Classes: Block/intensive mode 4 days 9am-1pm, Thursday 2nd August, 23rd August, 14th September, 5th October, 19th October; tutorials with academic supervisors Prerequisites: BMRI5020 Assessment: 1 x Research Proposal (70%), 1x oral presentation (30%) Campus: Mallett Street Mode of delivery: Block Mode
This unit builds on the critical skills acquired in BMRI5020 Research Inquiry and engages with the theoretical and practical issues relevant to the design and implementation of research. Methodological and ethical concerns will be examined, and students will focus the development a feasible, independent research proposal. This will be in a field of research that is covered at the BMRI, and students will have received supervision from specialist in their area of interest.
Textbooks
Specific reference material listed on LMS
BMRI5022 Research Inquiry and Design

Credit points: 12 Teacher/Coordinator: Professor Macdonald Christie, Associate Professor Nick Glozier Session: Semester 1 Classes: Block/intensive mode 5 days 9am-1pm, intensive online participation Prohibitions: BMRI5020, BMRI5021 Assessment: 3 x written assignments (70%), 2 x oral presentations (30%) Campus: Mallett Street Mode of delivery: Block Mode
Note: Department permission required for enrolment
This unit of study acts as a capstone experience. Students will undertake the units of study BMRI5021 Research Design and BMRI5020 Research Inquiry as a 12 credit point research unit over one semester.
Textbooks
Specific reference material listed on LMS
BMRI5023 Research Activity 1

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Associate Professor Wayne Reid Session: Semester 1,Semester 2 Classes: Full time practical x 13 weeks Assumed knowledge: To be determined by the supervisor. Assessment: To be negotiated by the approved supervisor and the nominated student, to be approved by unit of study coordinator Campus: Mallett Street Mode of delivery: Field Experience
Note: Department permission required for enrolment
Note: Student needs to be nominated by an approved supervisor for admission into this unit of study. This unit of study provides laboratory experience within an area of need as determined by the supervisor.
This unit of study will assist students in developing their practical research skills. An approved supervisor must nominate students for admission into this unit of study, based on an area of need within the supervisor's lab. The supervisor and student will develop a learning contract designed to meet the specific learning requirements of the nominated student in order to enhance their skills. The learning contract should include an outline of the research objectives and the type of work activities involved, details of the specific training tasks to be undertaken throughout the unit of study, the location of the activities, details of the research duration and timeframes for the various tasks to be conducted, a skills audit (including English language skills) that assesses the person's existing skills and identifies their training needs, details of all supervisors, how the agreed learning outcomes will be monitored throughout the unit of study and how these outcomes will be assessed at the completion of the unit of study.
Textbooks
Specific reference material listed on LMS
BMRI5024 Research Activity 2

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Associate Professor Wayne Reid Session: Semester 1,Semester 2 Classes: Full time practical x 13 weeks Assumed knowledge: To be determined by the supervisor. Assessment: To be negotiated by the approved supervisor and the nominated student, to be approved by unit of study coordinator Campus: Mallett Street Mode of delivery: Field Experience
Note: Department permission required for enrolment
Note: Student needs to be nominated by an approved supervisor for admission into this unit of study. This unit of study provides laboratory experience within an area of need as determined by the supervisor.
This unit of study will assist students in developing their practical research skills. An approved supervisor must nominate students for admission into this unit of study, based on an area of need within the supervisor's lab. The supervisor and student will develop a learning contract designed to meet the specific learning requirements of the nominated student in order to enhance their skills. The learning contract should include an outline of the research objectives and the type of work activities involved, details of the specific training tasks to be undertaken throughout the unit of study, the location of the activities, details of the research duration and timeframes for the various tasks to be conducted, a skills audit (including English language skills) that assesses the person's existing skills and identifies their training needs, details of all supervisors, how the agreed learning outcomes will be monitored throughout the unit of study and how these outcomes will be assessed at the completion of the unit of study.
Textbooks
Specific reference material listed on LMS
BMRI5025 Tobacco Dependence and Treatment

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Adjunct Associate Professor Renee Bittoun Session: Semester 2 Classes: Normal evening - 1 x 2 hour lecture/week and 3 hour assignment/week Assessment: Written assignment (40%), Case presentation (60%) Attendance at 10 out of 13 lectures is compulsory Campus: Mallett Street Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) Evening
This unit of study will enable students to understand and assess tobacco dependency, understand the biology of tobacco use, withdrawals and relapse and understand and initiate evidence-based interventions, both pharmacological and behavioural to help smokers quit. Complex neuropsychopharmacology of drug interactions with tobacco use and after cessation of use will be covered as will insights into the causes and management of tobacco dependence in special groups such as patients with mental health comorbidities, pregnant women and indigenous and migrant populations and others with comorbid addictive behaviours. Students will learn to critically review and evaluate the literature on tobacco dependence and treatment. Students will be required to present cases where they will have integrated and applied their knowledge to patients with tobacco dependence.
BMRI5026 Suicide and Suicide Prevention

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Adjunct Associate Professor John Mendoza Session: Semester 1 Classes: Block mode 2 x full day workshops, 3 x half-day workshops and 1 day assignments Assessment: Written assignment: (30%), Case presentation (50%), Participation (online and in-class) (20%) Attendance at all workshops is compulsory Campus: Mallett Street Mode of delivery: Block Mode
This Unit is designed to provide you with an introduction to the topics of suicide and suicide prevention in Australia. It will specifically provide you with a sound knowledge and understanding of suicide, suicidal behavior and self-harm and the relationships and differences between these three areas. You will examine prevalence, risk factors and sub-populations, and evidence on what works to reduce suicide and suicidal risk. You will also have the opportunity to develop communications skills for effectively responding to someone at risk of suicide and apply your learning through developing an intervention or 'pathway to care' for your particular work context.
BMRI5027 Leadership and Policy in Mental Health 1

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Adjunct Associate Professor John Mendoza Session: Semester 1 Classes: Weekly or Block Mode - 2 weekend workshops of 10 hours contact time, plus one day assignment presentations. Assessment: Written assignment (30%), Case presentation (50%), Participation (online and in-class) (20%) Attendance at 10 out of 13 lectures is compulsory Campus: Mallett Street Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) Evening
Note: Students may enrol in this unit of study without having to complete BMRI 5028 'Leadership and Policy in Mental Health 2' However, if you wish to undertake BMRI 5028 'Leadership and Policy in Mental Health 2, then you must complete this Unit.
This Unit of Study examines the key constructs of leadership, leadership development and change management with specific reference to mental health reform in Australia. Students will gain an understanding of leadership, leadership development, their own leadership attributes and developmental needs. Students will also gain an insight into the development of strategy, organizational level policy and governance for achieving change.
These elements will provide the foundations for self-development as a leader and the development of service level change/reform initiatives.
Students are predominately assessed on the application of the theoretical constructs and models to their own work settings or contexts.
BMRI5028 Leadership and Policy in Mental Health 2

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Adjunct Associate Professor John Mendoza Session: Semester 2 Classes: Weekly or Block Mode - 2 weekend workshops of 10 hours contact time, plus one day assignment presentations. Prerequisites: BMRI5027 Assessment: Written assignment (30%), Case presentation (50%), Participation (online and in-class) (20%) Attendance at 10 out of 13 lectures is compulsory Campus: Mallett Street Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) Evening
This Unit of study is designed to apply and develop the leadership theory and models from BMRI 5027 and apply these to leading mental health reforms at policy, organizational and service level. In addition this Unit will introduce you to mental health policy and mental health reform. The unit provides an overview of the historical background to the development of mental health policy and legislation in Australia, the influence of international developments, challenges in mental health reform, the role of advocacy and the rise of the consumer movement. The unit provides an opportunity to implement a workplace change initiative and report on the results.