Community Mental Health – Honours Bachelor at Durham College - Program overview

Program overview

Admission Requirements

Intakes

Last updated on 2025-10-15

Program overview

Program Overview

The Community Mental Health – Honours Bachelor program at Durham College is designed to equip students with the essential skills and knowledge needed to thrive in the field of mental health. As the demand for mental health services continues to grow, this program prepares future practitioners to address the complexities of mental health and addictions. Students will engage in a comprehensive curriculum that combines theoretical knowledge with practical application, ensuring they are well-prepared to support individuals and communities facing mental health challenges. Graduates will emerge with a strong foundation in case management, crisis counselling, and mental health promotion, ready to make a meaningful impact in various sectors.

Program Structure

The Community Mental Health – Honours Bachelor program spans a total of nine semesters and is delivered in person at the Oshawa campus. This program includes:

A mandatory 14-week, 420-hour experiential work placement, providing hands-on experience in a real-world setting.
A comprehensive mix of theoretical, research, and applied courses that cover various aspects of mental health and addictions.
Opportunities for students to engage in community-based projects and collaborate with professionals in the field.

This program is designed to bridge the gap between academic learning and practical application, ensuring that students are well-equipped to meet the demands of the mental health sector upon graduation.

Featured Experiences

The Community Mental Health program offers several unique features that enhance the learning experience:

Experiential Learning: Students participate in a mandatory field placement, allowing them to apply their knowledge in a professional environment.
Collaborative Development: The program has been developed in collaboration with experts from various sectors, ensuring a well-rounded curriculum.
Cultural Humility Focus: Emphasis on understanding and addressing the needs of diverse populations, including immigrants, refugees, and Indigenous peoples.
Evidence-Based Interventions: Students learn to implement strategies that are grounded in research and best practices.

Career Options

Graduates of the Community Mental Health program will have a wide array of career opportunities in the mental health field. Here are some potential job roles:

Family or Marriage Counsellor: Provide support and guidance to couples and families facing challenges in their relationships.
Social and Community Service Worker: Assist individuals and families in accessing community resources and services.
Case Manager: Coordinate care and support for clients with mental health needs, ensuring they receive appropriate services.
Crisis Counsellor: Offer immediate support and intervention to individuals in crisis situations.
Mental Health Promoter: Advocate for mental health awareness and education within communities.
Addictions Counsellor: Help individuals struggling with substance use disorders to achieve recovery.
Housing Advocate: Support individuals in securing stable housing and navigating related services.
Peer Support Worker: Provide support and guidance based on shared experiences to individuals facing mental health challenges.
Residential Youth Worker: Work with youth in residential settings, providing support and guidance for their mental health needs.

DISCLAIMER: The information above is subject to change. For the latest updates, please contact LOA Portal's advisors.

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Last updated on 2025-10-15

Program overview

Academic Requirements

To apply for the Community Mental Health – Honours Bachelor program at Durham College, prospective students must meet the following Academic Requirements:

Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) or equivalent, or Mature Student Status.
Completion of Six Grade 12 U or M courses with a combined minimum average of 65%, including:
- Grade 12 U English with a final minimum grade of 60%.
Alternatively, completion of Six post-secondary credits with a combined minimum average of 65%, including:
- College or university English or communications with a final minimum grade of 60%.

For international students, it is essential to ensure that your qualifications are equivalent to the Ontario Secondary School Diploma. Students from Vietnam and other Asian countries are encouraged to contact LOA Portal's advisors for any clarification and support regarding their specific educational backgrounds.

It is important to note that transcripts may be required to be evaluated by WES in some cases.

The next intake for this program is in September 2025. Students are advised to apply as soon as possible to secure their place in this in-demand program.

For any further questions or assistance with the application process, please reach out to LOA Portal's advisors who are ready to help you navigate your educational journey.

Language Requirements

Applicants may be admitted to Durham College for our undergraduate programs if they have an Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) or equivalent high school diploma from another country which includes:

One senior-level English language credit (from an English-speaking country as listed below)
Equivalent English Proficiency test results (see chart below), or
Completion of an English for Academic Purposes (EAP) program through one of our recognized English Language Partner schools.

Applicants from Canadian curriculum high schools, both inside and outside of Canada, must complete a minimum of three years of high school credits to be considered for exemption from TOEFL/Academic IELTS requirements upon provision of a full transcript.

Applicants with a minimum of three years of high school or post-secondary studies in Canada, Australia, Ghana, Kenya, Nigeria, New Zealand, Singapore, United States, United Kingdom, Philippines, some Caribbean countries, and selected other countries may be exempted from TOEFL/Academic IELTS requirements upon provision of a full transcript. Exceptions may apply.

English Language Proficiency Tests accepted include:

Academic IELTS: 6.5, no band score less than 6.0
IBT TOEFL: 88, with minimum section scores of 22
PTE Academic: 60 minimum overall, no section below 57 L,W,S,R
CAEL: Overall score of 70, no section below 70
DET: 115

For specific programs, such as Practical Nursing, the requirements are:

Academic IELTS: 7.0, with no band less than 6.5
TOEFL: 94, with minimum section scores of 23

All other students must submit their valid IELTS Academic/TOEFL/PTE Academic scores to International Admissions. Only tests taken in the last 2 years and valid at the time a student begins their program will be accepted.

DISCLAIMER: The information above is subject to change. For the latest updates, please contact LOA Portal's advisors. The listed minimum requirements are a guideline and do not guarantee admission. Do not worry, we will notify you of any changes during the application process.

Not meeting the minimum language requirements?

You may still be able to apply!