Physical Activity for Mental Health and Psychological Wellbeing
Everything you need to know
- Start date: January 2027
- End date: July 2027
- Module leader: Richard West
- Level: 7
- Credits: 15
Introduction
Online module critically explores the role of physical activity in mental health and psychological wellbeing. You will engage with theory, evidence, and practice to design safe, ethical, and person-centred interventions.
The module involves a variety of research leaders in their fields including Jim Turner, Dave Hembrough, Liz Fletcher and Gareth Jones. Each learning block is designed to touch of different aspects of physical activity and challenges you as the student to think critically about current interventions.
Who is this course/module for?
Qualified healthcare professionals (e.g. nurses, AHPs, psychologists)
Practitioners interested in physical activity based mental health interventions
Those working in mental health, public health, or community settings
Professionals seeking to integrate physical activity into therapeutic practice
What you’ll learn
By the end of this module, you will be able to critically evaluate the evidence linking physical activity and mental health, understand key determinants and inequalities, and apply this knowledge to practice. You will develop skills in designing safe, ethical, and person-centred interventions, while recognising limitations and adapting approaches to diverse populations and settings.
Skills you’ll gain
Critically evaluating evidence on physical activity and mental health
Designing safe, ethical, and inclusive physical activity intervention
Integrating physical activity into mental health practice across diverse settings
How you’ll learn
Structured online learning packages with guided activities
Live webinars to discuss key concepts and ask questions
Independent study using core readings and wider literature
Reflective tasks to apply learning to your own practice
Fees and Funding for 2026/27
| Indicative price for stand-alone module |
Home student: £915 EU/International students: £930 - The University cannot sponsor a Student Visa for CPD modules. However, if you already have permission to study in the UK, you can apply. If you’re unsure whether your visa allows this, please contact the International Experience Team at hallamhelp@shu.ac.uk to discuss your options. |
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| Funding |
This module attracts Workforce Development / Workforce Transformation funding WDF/WTF by the following schemes: |
| How to apply |
You can apply for this module using our online admissions form. After you have registered or logged in, select the module title under "Please choose your first module". |
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Entry requirements
Be currently employed in, or have access to, a relevant practice setting that supports engagement with mental health practice.
A reliable internet connection
Where English is not your first language you must supply IELTS scores
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Attendance
Delivery Method:
Synchronous online learning (distance learning). Take part in live, timetabled online sessions using tools like video calls and virtual classrooms. You’ll learn in real time with tutors and other students, with no need to attend campus for teaching or assessments.
View our statement on notional study hours »
Provisional timetable
Tutorials will be held on the following dates:
- 21 January 2027
- 18 February 2027
- 2 April 2027
- 3 April 2027
- 22 April 2027
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Assessment
Module assessment is made up of one or more assessment tasks. The assessment task(s) for this module are:
- Written Assignment
Successful completion of this module will earn you 15 level 7 credits
Further details
For further information please contact the module leader Richard West - richard.west@shu.ac.uk