Course Description

The Certificate in Higher Education Public Health (Foundation Pathway) at ARU College, delivered in partnership with Anglia Ruskin University, provides the essential foundation in knowledge, values, and skills required to pursue a degree in Public Health or related health and social care fields. This programme is specifically designed for individuals who wish to develop a solid academic grounding while gaining an understanding of the personal and professional attributes required in health and social care professions.

Throughout the course, students will engage with fundamental principles of health sciences, social sciences, and life sciences. The programme promotes the development of key qualities such as integrity, patience, communication, and critical judgement, which are essential for a successful career in public health and healthcare services.

What You Will Learn
Students will gain:

  • A comprehensive introduction to the principles of public health and healthcare systems.

  • An understanding of biological, psychological, and social science foundations relevant to health and wellbeing.

  • Strong analytical and critical thinking skills for effective problem-solving in healthcare environments.

  • Essential academic and professional skills, including research, referencing, ICT, and numeracy.

  • Knowledge of ethical frameworks, values, and attitudes fundamental to caring professions.

Why study this course?

  • Designed as a direct pathway to progress to the BSc (Hons) Public Health degree at Anglia Ruskin University.

  • Develops the academic and personal skills necessary to succeed in higher education and professional health settings.

  • Taught by experienced lecturers who are experts in public health, healthcare, and social care.

  • Offers flexibility for UK and EU settled/pre-settled students wishing to apply for professional degrees such as Nursing or Operating Department Practice.

  • Provides a strong foundation in both scientific and social disciplines, preparing students for further study and professional training.

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

Assessment focuses on applying knowledge to real-world health contexts, with no formal written exams. Assessment methods include:

  • Essays and reflective journals
  • Case studies and health scenario analyses
  • Presentations and group projects
  • Health promotion campaign proposals
  • Research-based assignments
  • Work-based or community project assessments (where available)

Modules

  • Introduction to Public Health
  • Health Promotion and Behaviour Change
  • Epidemiology and Health Data Basics
  • Global and Environmental Health Issues
  • Health Inequalities and Social Determinants of Health
  • Academic and Professional Skills for Health Studies
  • Research and Evidence-Based Practice in Health

Study & Career Progression

Successful completion of this pathway enables students to progress to:

  • BSc (Hons) Public Health (Chelmsford Campus, Anglia Ruskin University)

  • BSc (Hons) Operating Department Practice (subject to interview, DBS check, and occupational health assessment)

  • Registered Nursing Degrees at Anglia Ruskin University (subject to meeting entry and interview requirements)

Career opportunities include roles such as:

  • Public Health Assistant

  • Community Support Worker

  • Health Promotion Coordinator

  • Healthcare Administrator

  • Foundation for future training in nursing, social work, or allied health professions

Student Fee's & Finance

The Tuition Fee of the course may vary depending on the institution you wish to study at, as well as
your status in the UK. The course is available for UK/EU & International Students and eligible for Student Loans Company (SLC) funding to help cover the cost of your tuition fees and other expenses.

If you are an UK/EU citizen or living in the UK on an Indefinite stay, apart from the tuition fees, you
could also receive support from the government via Student Loans Company to cover some living costs while studying.

  • Tuition fee loans cover the full cost of your course and are paid directly to the course provider.
  • Maintenance Loan pays for day-to-day living expenses like rent, bills, food and books. Unlike the fees loan,
    it's paid directly to your student bank account once a term and you can spend it on anything you like.
  • Student Finance has to be paid back, however, you only make Student Loan repayments once you've left your course AND are earning enough. Repayments vary with your salary, and stop altogether if your income drops too low.
  • Students can also apply for other types of special support grants, such as childcare grants or Disabled
    Students' Allowance if eligible.
  • Moreover, almost all universities offer a selection of student bursaries. These are cash gifts you usually don't have to repay.

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