Course Description
The BTEC Higher National Certificate (HNC) in Health Care Practice (Integrated Health and Social Care) provides a comprehensive introduction to the healthcare sector, equipping students with the knowledge, skills, and professional behaviours necessary to make a positive impact in health and social care environments. This Level 4 programme supports the development of self-reflective, adaptable, and competent professionals ready to meet the demands of a dynamic industry.
Students will gain practical and theoretical knowledge across a wide range of healthcare practices, including the integration of health and social care services. The course emphasises collaboration, person-centred approaches, and the development of transferable skills relevant to both clinical and non-clinical roles.
What You Will Learn
- Core principles of law, policy, and ethics in health and social care practice.
- Professional values and principles essential to healthcare practice.
- Integrated approaches to supporting individuals across health and social care settings.
- Evidence-based practice, operational management, and public health strategies.
- Practical skills in record-keeping, health education, and addressing health inequalities.
- Foundational knowledge of anatomy, physiology, and healthcare technology.
- Critical thinking and problem-solving within real-world healthcare scenarios.
Why study this course?
- Prepare for a career in health and social care with practical, hands-on experience.
- Learn from highly experienced tutors who provide guidance and professional insight.
- Develop in-demand skills for healthcare practice, public health, and supervisory roles.
- Study in modern campuses equipped with resources to support your learning.
- Build a strong foundation for further study or career progression in the healthcare sector.
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
This course is assessed through practical and written work designed to reflect real tasks and responsibilities in the health and social care field. There are no formal exams.
Assessment methods include:
- Written assignments
- Case studies
- Presentations
- Reflective journals
- Work placement observations
- Group projects
Modules
- Law, Policy and Ethical Practice in Health and Social Care
- Demonstrating Professional Principles and Values in Health and Social Care Practice
- Supporting the Individual Journey through Integrated Health and Social Care
- Addressing Health Inequalities
- Fundamentals of Anatomy and Physiology for Health and Ill-Health
- Developing Operational Management Skills for Healthcare Practice
Study & Career Progression
Graduates of the BTEC HNC in Health Care Practice (Integrated Health and Social Care) can pursue a wide range of opportunities within the health and social care sector or continue their academic journey.
Possible progression routes include:
- Support worker
- Care coordinator
- Healthcare assistant
- Advancement to the BTEC HND in Health Care Practice
- Top-up to a full Bachelor's degree in health, nursing, or social care
- Further training or specialisation in areas like mental health, public health, or social work
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.
