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Introduction to the CAS Mental Health in Work and Education Program

The CAS Mental Health in Work and Education program is designed to address the complex issues surrounding mental health in the workplace and educational settings. This program, offered by the University of Bern's Institute of Psychology, Department of Work and Organizational Psychology, aims to provide participants with a comprehensive understanding of the factors influencing mental health in these contexts.

Program Overview

• Duration: September 2026 to April 2027
• ECTS Points: 12-15
• Flexible Entry: Not possible
• Module Attendance: Individual modules can be attended if spaces are available
• Location: Bern and online
• Language: German
• Admission Requirements: University degree and professional experience in psychology, medicine, social work, therapy, pedagogy, or related fields. Exceptions can be made on a case-by-case basis.
• Application Deadline: July 31, 2026
• Cost: CHF 8,800

Program Structure

The program is modular, consisting of:

• A framework program (introduction, final event, evaluation)
• Five modules, each worth 2 ECTS points
• Intervision (1 ECTS point)
• A final case study (1 ECTS point)

Modules

Module 1: Personal Factors in the Work Context

• ECTS Points: 2
• Duration: 4 days (28 hours of attendance)
• Learning Objectives:
  • Understand personal factors influencing work (personality, resilience, resources, motivation, life circumstances, demands, pressure)
  • Recognize the interplay between personal factors and work
  • Apply this understanding in counseling contexts

Module 2: Disease-Related Factors in the Work Context

• ECTS Points: 2
• Duration: 4 days (28 hours of attendance)
• Learning Objectives:
  • Identify psychiatric diagnoses and their implications for work capacity
  • Analyze work situations and apply appropriate instruments
  • Understand the influence of recovery factors, psychotherapy, and occupational rehabilitation

Module 3: Operational Factors - Training and Workplace

• ECTS Points: 2
• Duration: 4 days (28 hours of attendance)
• Learning Objectives:
  • Recognize factors at the training and workplace level (working conditions, climate, psychological safety)
  • Identify and address anomalies in counseling situations
  • Understand HR perspectives on dealing with psychological challenges

Module 4: Systems and Social Insurance (Advanced)

• ECTS Points: 2
• Duration: 4 days (28 hours of attendance)
• Learning Objectives:
  • Understand the transition points between different social insurance systems
  • Compare incentives and mechanisms of different systems, including international comparisons
  • Recognize the psychological effects of legal aspects and insurance medicine

Module 5: Psychological Conversation Leadership in Challenging Situations

• ECTS Points: 2
• Duration: 4 days (28 hours of attendance)
• Learning Objectives:
  • React appropriately in challenging conversation situations
  • Apply various conversation techniques in situations of aggression, avoidance, or threat
  • Lead conversations with psychologically stressed individuals in different contexts

Intervision

• ECTS Points: 1
• Duration: 2 days (14 hours of attendance)
• Learning Objectives:
  • Gain insight into different fields of work related to counseling and supporting individuals with psychological challenges
  • Establish a network of colleagues from various professional backgrounds
  • Understand different support services

Target Audience

The program is aimed at psychologists, career counselors, educational professionals, HR managers, case managers, teachers, therapists, social workers, and medical professionals dealing with psychological issues in education and/or the workplace.

Teaching and Learning Principles

The program employs various teaching methods to support learning and knowledge transfer, including theoretical and practical knowledge, reflection, and discussion. The needs and wishes of the participants are considered in the content and form of the events.

Leadership and Faculty

The program is led by the Institute of Psychology, Department of Work and Organizational Psychology, in cooperation with WorkMed AG. The program leadership consists of Prof. Achim Elfering, Prof. Martin grosse Holtforth, Prof. Petra Klumb, Dr. Niklas Baer, and Urs Br慤sch. Co-program leaders are Tanja Kuhn and Ea Eller.

Admission and Costs

• Admission Requirements: University degree and relevant professional experience. Exceptions can be made on a case-by-case basis.
• Costs: CHF 8,800 for the entire program. Individual modules can be attended if spaces are available.

Further Education Opportunities

Related programs include the MAS in Psychology of Career Counseling and Human Resources Management and the MAS in Health Psychology, offering further education opportunities in related fields.