Free Level 3 Mental Health Course Online

CostFREE
Duration90 hours
LevelLevel 3
DeliveryOnline
Start10 Sep 2026
Awarding bodyNCFE awarding body

About this course

Free Level 3 Understanding Mental Health Course. Study online at your own pace, around your work and home life. Around 90 hours of study in total.

The course covers mental health conditions, wellbeing, and the factors that shape mental health across different life stages. You'll explore how mental health affects people in health, social care, education, and community settings. A short skills check is part of enrolment to confirm the level is right for you.

You'll finish with an NCFE Certificate in Understanding Mental Health.

Who this course is for

This course is designed for adult learners who want to develop a deeper knowledge of mental health, wellbeing, and the factors that influence mental health across different life stages. It is suitable for those working, or aspiring to work, in health and social care, mental health services, support work, education, youth work, or community settings. Learners must be aged 19+ to undertake the qualification.

Entry requirements

There are no qualifications needed. However, it may be helpful if learners have previously completed a Level 2 qualification in mental health, health, or social care. Learners must be motivated and have adequate literacy skills to meet Level 3 study requirements. You will be asked to complete a short skills check.

You must be eligible to study in the UK, you will need a valid I.D. You may be asked to show proof of earnings/employment status for funding purposes.

What you will learn

  • You'll identify a range of mental health conditions and their symptoms.
  • You'll explore the factors that influence mental health across different life stages.
  • You'll understand approaches to promoting wellbeing and recovery.
  • You'll examine the role of support services in mental health care.
  • You'll develop knowledge of safeguarding and duty of care in mental health settings.
  • You'll recognise the impact of stigma and how to challenge it.

How you will learn

You study online and work through written assignments and assessments at your own pace. There are no exams. You'll submit written work that is marked and assessed against the qualification criteria. You'll need adequate literacy skills to meet the demands of Level 3 written tasks.

What you will need to bring

You'll need a valid form of ID to enrol. You may also be asked to provide proof of earnings or employment status. Devon Adult Education will confirm anything else you need before you start.

Where next

Jobs you could do

  • Mental health support worker, supports people living with mental health conditions.
  • Support worker, assists individuals in community or residential care settings.
  • Healthcare assistant, works alongside clinical staff in health or care services.
  • Community outreach worker, connects people with local mental health and wellbeing services.
  • Youth worker, supports young people's emotional health and development.
  • Education welfare officer, helps students facing mental health or wellbeing challenges.

What you could study next

  • Level 3 Diploma in Health and Social Care, a broader qualification for those moving into senior support roles.
  • Level 4 Certificate in Mental Health, deepens specialist knowledge for those working in mental health services.
  • Level 3 Award in Mental Health First Aid, a focused qualification recognised by many employers in health and community settings.

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