Course Description

Course Overview

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.

What You Will Learn

  • 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.

Why study this course?

  • 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.

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:

  • Essays and written reports

  • Group and individual presentations

  • Posters and project-based assessments

  • Case study analyses

  • Research-based assignments

Modules

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

Study & Career Progression

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)

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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