Building on its broad range of health courses, Charles Sturt University (CSU) is offering a new course in applied mindfulness.

Starting in 2018 the CSU School of Biomedical Sciences will offer a Graduate Certificate in Applied Mindfulness, which will be the first such program at an Australian university with a focus on evidence-based practice.

Head of the CSU School of Biomedical Sciences Professor Rod Hill (pictured) said mindfulness practice is an evidence-based approach to improve the physical and psychological health and wellbeing of people generally, as well as people with psychological and physical symptoms.

"We are very excited to provide a strongly evidence-based approach to the field of applied mindfulness," Professor Hill said.

"The course explores many facets of mindfulness including how pathways in the brain are activated, and how memory can be improved. It focusses on theory, rather than training which has been run by private sector providers.

"Psychological function is also explored; for example, including how mindfulness practise helps reduce emotional distress.

"Finally, approaches to applying mindfulness, and practise of face-to-face mindfulness-based interventions, will be explored during the only residential school required to complete the Graduate Certificate."

The CSU School of Biomedical Sciences offers a range of undergraduate programs related to allied health, such as paramedicine, pharmacy, medical science, clinical science and food and nutrition. The School also offers post-graduate programs in medical science, and a range of options across health services management, and also paramedicine. The Graduate Certificate in Applied Mindfulness is well aligned with CSU's reputation in initiating an innovative course and building up research partnerships with other stakeholders in an allied health context.

The Graduate Certificate in Applied Mindfulness is strongly aligned with CSU's strategic institutional commitment to consolidating and expanding programs in the health and allied health fields at CSU in Bathurst and Orange.

The Graduate Certificate in Applied Mindfulness is designed for a broad range of professions from teachers to health and allied health professionals around regional NSW and interstate.

Find out more about the Graduate Certificate in Applied Mindfulness.