Program Overview

Health and Social Care Foundation Studies: Certificate of Higher Education

The Health and Social Care Foundation Studies: Certificate of Higher Education is a one-year course designed to provide students with the skills and confidence needed for a profession, job, or academic study in health and social care.

Entry Requirements

• Entry tariff: 4864 UCAS points (or equivalent)
• UCAS code: TBC
• Start date: September 2026

Modules

The course consists of the following modules:

• Academic Skills and Communication (30 credits)
• Data Analysis and Research Skills (30 credits)
• Foundations of Health and Social Care (30 credits)
• Personal and Professional Development (30 credits)

Academic Skills and Communication

This module develops core academic and integrated English language skills, including speaking, listening, reading, and writing. Students become familiar with key academic skills and concepts, such as referencing methods and awareness of academic integrity and tone.

Data Analysis and Research Skills

Students develop research, numeracy, and information technology skills, investigating the difference between primary and secondary research and conducting their own research project.

Foundations of Health and Social Care

This module offers an introduction to the essential principles and structures that underpin health and social care systems, exploring the dynamic relationship between health, wellbeing, and social care.

Personal and Professional Development

This module equips students with the foundational knowledge, skills, and attitudes essential for personal and professional growth within health and social care settings, focusing on professionalism, ethical practice, teamwork, and effective communication.

Skills

Students gain a basic understanding of using English for academic purposes and a thorough grounding in academic study skills, such as essay structure, exam technique, referencing, journal and library research. They also learn about the history and contemporary context of health and social care and its relationship with health outcomes and wellbeing.

Learning

The course is taught via lectures, seminars, and workshops by passionate and committed academic staff. Students explore the importance of effective teamwork and communication in health and social care, with the flexibility to take on paid part-time work, placements, or internships.

Assessment

Assessments include a wide range of methods, such as:

• Coursework
• Reports
• Essays
• Group and individual presentations
• Comparative and reflective essays
• Multiple choice exams
• Oral exams
• Portfolios
• Case studies
• Blogs

Career

The Health and Social Care Foundation Studies: Certificate of Higher Education prepares students for a profession in health and social care or for studying an undergraduate degree. Undergraduate courses that students can apply to include:

• Adult Nursing
• Mental Health Nursing
• Adult and Mental Health Nursing
• Children's Nursing

Fees and Funding

UK Students

• Tuition fees: Ł9,790 (September 2026 entry)

International Students

• Tuition fees: Ł17,628 (September 2026 entry)