Assessment and Diagnosis of Psychiatric and Mental Health Disorders Across the Lifespan

Student Learning Outcomes, Goals, Objectives:

Students successfully completing this course will be able to:

• Synthesize comprehensive assessment data to accurately diagnose psychiatric, behavioral, and mental health disorders, considering developmental stages across the lifespan.
• Demonstrate advanced diagnostic reasoning by integrating neurobiological, psychosocial, and cultural factors to differentiate and confirm psychiatric conditions across diverse populations.
• Apply evidence-based diagnostic frameworks to develop and manage treatment plans for common behavioral health issues, psychiatric illnesses, and substance use disorders, ensuring culturally competent and patient-centered care.

Course Grading Information:

Activity/Performance Measure	Percentage/Points
Discussions	5%
Module Assignments	20%
Module Checkpoint Quizzes	30%
Case Studies	30%
Comprehensive Diagnostic Case Analysis	15%

Grading Scale:

Percentage	Letter Grade
100-93	A
92-85	B
84-77	C
76 or less	F

Attendance/Participation:

In an asynchronous course, students are expected to identify and commit to specific times within each 7-day week to complete required activities and assignments. A student will be considered absent if they fail to participate in assignments that involve peer interaction, such as discussion board posts or group projects, or if assignments are submitted late. Late submissions may also result in a reduction in the assignment grade.

Regular class attendance is a responsibility and a privilege of university education. It is fundamental to the orderly acquisition of knowledge. Students should recognize the advantages of regular class attendance, accept it as a personal responsibility, and apprise themselves of the consequences of poor attendance.

Attendance is a critical component of this course and is factored into your overall grade. Active participation is essential for your learning and success in this class.

Planned Absences:If you know you will be absent, you are required to notify the instructor via email as soon as possible and before the scheduled date of absence.

Extenuating Circumstances:In cases of emergencies or unforeseen circumstances that require your absence, please inform the instructor via email as soon as possible. Include details about the situation and, if appropriate, provide supporting documentation.

Repeated unexcused absences or failure to notify the instructor may negatively impact your grade. Exceptions to this policy will be considered on a case-by-case basis for legitimate and documented reasons.

Your communication and proactive approach regarding attendance are greatly appreciated.

Course Materials Purchased by the Students:

No course materials are required.