The Certificate of Higher Education in Public Health with Foundation Year offers a strong academic and practical introduction to public health, social care, and the wider health sciences. This programme is designed for students who may not meet standard university entry requirements, providing a supported pathway into higher education and future undergraduate study.
Throughout the course, students will explore key public health concepts, develop professional and interpersonal communication skills, and examine the social, environmental, and behavioural factors influencing wellbeing. The programme also includes essential academic development modules to build confidence, critical thinking, and digital capability.
Delivered at the London School of Commerce in partnership with Canterbury Christ Church University, the programme provides a supportive learning environment, excellent academic guidance, and a clear progression route onto degree-level study in Public Health.
Foundational knowledge in health, wellbeing, human development, and public health systems.
Understanding of social, behavioural, and environmental determinants of health.
Development of communication strategies used in health and social care settings.
Skills in digital literacy, numeracy, and applied research to support academic success.
Awareness of ethical practice, collaborative working, and person-centred care.
Academic and professional skills that prepare you for further study or workplace readiness.
Provides an accessible entry route into higher education through a supportive Foundation Year.
Designed to introduce key areas in public health, allied health, nursing, midwifery, and social care.
Delivered in central London and Birmingham with excellent transport links.
Offers flexible study patterns to support students with personal or work commitments.
Taught by experienced faculty members with strong academic and professional expertise.
Offers a direct progression pathway to Level 5 of the BSc (Hons) Public Health degree upon successful completion.
Minimum Age: 18 years
Applicants must provide evidence of their highest academic qualification, which may include:
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.
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.
All applicants are required to attend an interview with a member of the admissions team as part of the selection process.
Student progress will be measured through a variety of assessments designed to showcase both technical and analytical skills, including:
Essays and written reports
Group and individual presentations
Posters and project-based assessments
Case study analyses
Research-based assignments
Trimester 1
Personal and Academic Development
Human Development
Trimester 2
Applied Digital and Numeracy Skills
Developing Communication Skills and Wellbeing
Trimester 3
Human Anatomy and Physiology
Wider Determinants of Health
Trimester 1
Introducing Academic Skills
Contemporary Health and Lifestyles
Trimester 2
Communication and Digital Health
Collaborative Working in Health
Trimester 3
Sociology of Health and Wellbeing
Environment and Green Health
Graduates of this programme will develop a strong foundation for progression into a wide range of health and social care career pathways. The CertHE also provides eligibility to progress to Level 5 of the BSc (Hons) Public Health degree at Canterbury Christ Church University.
Possible progression opportunities include:
Health and Social Care Assistant
Public Health Support Worker
Community Health Officer
Care Coordinator
Health Promotion Assistant
Support roles within NHS Trusts, local authorities, and voluntary organisations
With further study, students may progress into careers such as:
Public Health Practitioner
Social Worker
Health Protection Officer
Community Development Worker
Allied Health Professional (with additional qualifications)
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:

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