Course Description

Course Overview
This four-year BSc (Hons) Health and Social Care with Foundation Year programme is designed to equip students with the knowledge, skills, and professional values needed to address health inequalities and advance inclusive, ethical practices in health and social care.

Guided by critical social theory and social justice, students will critically examine societal structures and dominant ideologies that influence health disparities. They will explore social, cultural, political, and economic determinants of health to drive meaningful change for individuals and communities, particularly marginalised groups.

The foundation year provides an alternative route into higher education for students who do not meet traditional entry requirements, enabling them to develop essential academic and problem-solving skills before progressing to Year One of the degree.

What You Will Learn

  • Develop critical thinking and research skills to evaluate and address health inequities.

  • Apply ethical decision-making and inclusive practice in health and social care contexts.

  • Understand social determinants of health and their impact on individuals and communities.

  • Gain leadership and professional skills for diverse roles in health and social care.

  • Specialise in areas such as mental health, public health, or leadership in the final year.

Why study this course?

  • Benefit from a four-year programme with a built-in foundation year for students who do not meet traditional entry requirements.

  • Study in a blended learning environment combining online and on-campus teaching.

  • Access flexible timetables, including daytime, evening, weekend, and weekend-only options.

  • Gain practical experience through observation, field trips, and work placements.

  • Enhance employability in a wide range of health and social care contexts.

Entry requirements

Academic Route

Minimum Age: 18 years

Applicants must provide evidence of their highest academic qualification, which may include:

  • Level 3 Qualifications (A Levels, NVQ Level 3, Diploma, Certificate, or Access to Higher Education Diploma)
  • International Baccalaureate
  • High School Level Qualifications
  • Level 2 Qualifications or equivalent (for example, GCSEs, NVQ Level 2, Diploma, or Certificate)

Work Route

Minimum Age: 21 years

Applicants who do not meet formal academic entry criteria may apply through the Work Route. This route recognises relevant professional experience in the field, or related industries as an alternative pathway into higher education. Some exceptions may apply for applicants with professional experience in other fields. This entry route ensures that motivated and experienced candidates can progress academically and professionally.

English Language Proficiency

If English is not the first language, applicants must complete an approved free English language test that assesses reading, writing, speaking, and listening skills. Equivalent qualifications may also be accepted.

Interview

All applicants are required to attend an interview with a member of the admissions team as part of the selection process.

Assessments

Student progress will be measured through a variety of assessments designed to showcase both technical and analytical skills, including:

  • Coursework

  • Group work

  • Presentations

  • Portfolios

  • Podcasts

  • Research projects and reflective journals

Modules

  • Foundation Year Programme

  • Introduction to Health and Social Care

  • Diversity in Health and Social Care

  • Research and Academic Practice

  • Human Growth and Development

  • Understanding Public Health

  • Researching Health & Social Care

  • Preparing for Practice

  • Social Policy & Society

  • Leadership in Health & Social Care

  • Contemporary Approaches to Health & Social Care

  • Health Project

Optional Modules:

  • Public Health & Health Promotion

  • Managing Health and Social Care

  • Mental Health and Well-being

  • Global Health

Study & Career Progression

Graduates of this programme can pursue careers in a variety of health and social care settings, including the NHS, voluntary or independent sectors, social enterprises, charity organisations, and housing associations. Possible areas of focus include:

  • Quality assurance

  • Commissioning

  • Policy development

  • Research

  • Public health

  • Service management

Graduates may also pursue roles in:

  • Health administration

  • Care management

  • Education

  • Community development

  • Social work (additional qualifications required to practice)

This degree also provides a strong foundation for further study and demonstrates the ability to succeed in a blended learning environment, enhancing employability in today’s digitally focused health and social care sectors.

Student Fee's & Finance

This course is available to United Kingdom residents who have access to public funds and are eligible for Student Loans Company funding to help cover tuition and living costs.

Funding options include:

  • Tuition Fee Loan: Covers the full cost of the course and is paid directly to the university.
  • Maintenance Loan: Helps cover day-to-day living expenses and is paid directly into the student’s account.
  • Additional Support: Eligible students may apply for Childcare Grants, Disabled Students’ Allowance, or university bursaries that do not require repayment.

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