Abstract
The new frame for interdisciplinary postgraduate programmes of mental health work in Norway was approved in 1997. The aim of this study was to evaluate the programmes with respect to what extent they had for professional identity and competence. 202 former students from 13 colleges replied to the mail survey. The majority of the replies came from women and nurses aged 35 to 50. They chose the colleges closest to there home, and they were mostly part-time students. Their interdisciplinary understanding has been strengthened, but their own discipline has become vaguer. Even though 35% did not work in mental health, the education had great impact on their work. Increased insight into mental health work, interdisciplinary environment, and personal development meant the most in the programme. The colleges should improve their modes of teaching and their administrative conditions. The participants recommend the programme.