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Health and Social Care
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Begin your journey towards a rewarding career in Health & Social Care with our fully accredited Access to Higher Education Diploma. This qualification is designed to prepare you for entry into leading Health & Social Care degree programmes across the UK, equipping you with the academic foundation, study skills, and confidence needed to thrive at university.
Enrol on our Access to Higher Education Diploma in Health and Social Care
Do you want a career that helps people live healthier, more independent lives, but don’t yet have the qualifications needed for university? Our Access to Higher Education Diploma in Health and Social Care is the perfect pathway for anyone ready to pursue this fulfilling work.
This diploma is designed for adult learners, career changers, or those returning to education, giving you the foundational academic knowledge, skills, and confidence to move into degree-level study. You’ll learn about human biology, social care practices, equality and inclusion, communication in health settings, and the core theory and ethics that underpin quality care.
With a flexible, supportive structure, expert tutors, and a curriculum aligned with what universities expect, this course opens the door to many degree programmes in Health and Social Care and related sectors. Enrol today and take the next step toward a rewarding career where your work really matters.
Health and Social Care Diploma Overview
Our Level 3 Access to Higher Education Diploma in Health and Social Care is a one-year qualification designed for those who want to work in care and support services but don’t yet hold the traditional qualifications required for university.
The Diploma equips you with a strong academic foundation as well as subject-specific knowledge in health, wellbeing, social care practice, safeguarding, and equality and inclusion. You’ll also develop transferable skills in essay writing, research, critical thinking, and independent study – skills that will prepare you for the demands of higher education.
On completion, you’ll achieve 60 credits (most at Level 3) and be ready to apply for a wide range of degree programmes in Health and Social Care and related fields.
Ascentis Access to Health and Social Care Diploma
This course is accredited by Ascentis, the Access Validating Agency (AVA) for the Diploma. All Access to Higher Education Diplomas are regulated by the Quality Assurance Agency (QAA), which ensures they meet the high academic standards required by universities and further education institutions. Completing this Diploma gives you a recognised qualification that prepares you to progress onto a Health and Social Care degree and begin your journey towards a rewarding career in the sector.
Flexible Enrolment
To make our Access to Higher Education Diplomas as flexible and accessible as possible, you can enrol on the Health and Social Care course at any time of the year. Once you’ve started, you’re free to work through the assignments at your own pace and complete the Diploma as soon as all your work has been marked and approved. If you’re aiming to apply for a university place with a September start date, you should plan to finish your Diploma by the end of May to meet application deadlines.
Online Study
The Diploma is studied completely online through out online campus. Here you will find the lessons, materials and assignments that are needed in order to complete your Access to HE Diploma. Your study is always guided by our dedicated support staff who are there to assist with any technical questions which you may have.
Full Tutor Support
With every Access to Higher Education Diploma, including Health and Social Care, you’ll be assigned a dedicated personal tutor to guide you through your studies. Your tutor will be your main point of contact for answering questions, marking your assignments, and providing constructive feedback to help you progress. Tutor support is completely unlimited, and we aim to respond to all queries within one working day and return marked assignments within five working days.
Units on this diploma
This Access to Health and Social Care course covers 17 units, which build up the full Diploma.
Biochemistry is fundamental to understanding life at a molecular level, as it explores the structure and function of biological molecules and the key principles governing cellular processes. This unit focuses on the essential biomolecules—carbohydrates, proteins, lipids, and nucleic acids—along with their roles in maintaining life.
Cells are the fundamental units of life, forming the basis of all living organisms. This unit explores the essential principles of cell biology, including the differences between prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells, membrane structure and transport mechanisms, and the processes of cell division.
This unit provides learners with the opportunity to design and plan an independent biological investigation. It develops essential skills in project formulation, planning, and research design, preparing learners for further study or scientific inquiry in applied and academic contexts. Emphasis is placed on ensuring that the investigation is grounded in biological theory, is feasible within given constraints, and adheres to scientific and academic conventions.
This unit provides learners with the opportunity to carry out a previously planned scientific investigation and to demonstrate competence in practical scientific skills, data handling, and critical reflection. Building on prior work in investigation planning, this unit focuses on the implementation, analysis, and evaluation stages of the scientific process, preparing learners for further study or work in applied scientific and technical fields.
The human skeletal and muscular systems form the structural and functional foundation of the body, providing support, movement, and protection for vital organs. This unit explores the intricate relationship between bones, joints, and muscles, examining their structure, classification, and physiological roles in movement and stability.
The human body is a complex and highly organised system composed of multiple organ systems that work together to maintain life. This unit explores the fundamental aspects of human physiology, focusing on the organisation of the body, the functions of key organ systems, and the vital process of homeostasis.
Infectious diseases have shaped human history, influencing populations, economies, and healthcare advancements. These diseases are caused by pathogens, which include bacteria, viruses, fungi, protozoa, helminths, and prions. Pathogens have evolved diverse mechanisms to invade hosts, evade immune responses, and spread within populations, making them a significant challenge to public health.
The Social and Community Welfare Provision unit explores the social issues that influence health and well-being and examines how welfare systems have evolved to meet the needs of individuals and communities. It develops learners’ understanding of the historical and contemporary factors that shape service provision and highlights the importance of values and ethics in professional practice.
The Equal Opportunity and Diversity unit introduces learners to the key concepts, theories, and practices related to promoting equality and valuing diversity in contemporary society. It equips learners with the knowledge and analytical skills required to understand and address different forms of prejudice, stereotyping, and oppression while fostering awareness of the principles underpinning inclusive and equitable practice. The unit supports learners in recognising how discrimination can manifest at individual, cultural, and institutional levels, and how to apply legislative and organisational frameworks that support equality and diversity.
The Ethical Issues in Professional Practice unit introduces learners to the fundamental ethical principles, legal frameworks, and professional responsibilities that underpin decision-making in various care and service contexts. It provides the tools to understand ethical theories, evaluate the relationship between law and ethics, and apply moral reasoning in realistic professional situations.
The Health Promotion unit equips learners with the knowledge and critical understanding needed to explore the purpose, delivery, and impact of health promotion in a range of individual and societal contexts. It introduces key concepts and models of health promotion and enables learners to assess how these influence public health strategies and personal well-being.
This unit explores the foundational role of communication in promoting high-quality care and building positive relationships with service users. It equips learners with the knowledge and understanding necessary to identify effective communication approaches, assess individual communication needs, and recognise and overcome barriers to communication.
The Perspectives of Health unit enables learners to explore how health is understood, influenced, and experienced across different social, cultural, and personal contexts. It develops the ability to analyse how definitions and models of health shape both individual understanding and the delivery of care, and how wider social inequalities affect health outcomes.
The Academic Writing Skills unit equips learners with the tools required to analyse academic questions, produce well-structured written responses, and apply appropriate academic conventions. It focuses on developing the ability to interpret the meaning and implications of specific questions, identify key concepts and terminology, plan responses, and present them clearly and logically using appropriate academic formats and referencing practices.
The Improving Your Own Learning unit supports learners in developing the awareness, strategies, and personal management skills necessary to succeed in further or higher education. It encourages self-reflection, goal-setting, and the application of study skills across a range of academic tasks, promoting autonomy and lifelong learning habits.
The Researching and Understanding Opportunities for Higher Education unit equips learners with the knowledge, planning skills, and personal insight required to make informed decisions about progression into higher education. It supports learners in identifying suitable study options, evaluating the implications of HE pathways, and preparing high-quality applications for their chosen routes.
The Academic Research Skills unit introduces learners to the foundational principles, techniques, and ethical considerations that underpin effective academic research. It supports the development of essential skills for planning, conducting, and evaluating research within a range of subject areas, preparing learners for success in higher education and professional inquiry.
The support on my course was brilliant – I could contact my tutor at any time to get help which made it much faster to work through the units required.
– Elizabeth Ackroyd
The first step on your journey
Access to HE Diploma
Undertake an Access to Higher Education Diploma to qualify for university.
University Degree
Get on to your degree. Study at university towards an undergraduate of your choice.
Job of your dreams!
Become qualified! After completing your university degree you are qualified to work.
Who is this Access to Health and Social Care Diploma for?
If you’ve always wanted to make a difference by supporting individuals and communities, but don’t have the A Levels or qualifications required for university, this Diploma is the perfect first step.
It’s designed for adult learners returning to study, as well as those looking for a career change. Whether you want to work with children, vulnerable adults, or in community care, this course gives you the academic preparation to progress onto a Health and Social Care degree.
Entry to University Degrees
To work in professional Health and Social Care roles in the UK, you’ll need a degree-level qualification. With this Access Diploma, you’ll be eligible to apply to degree programmes at many universities across the country. Always check specific university entry requirements before applying to ensure they accept Access to Higher Education Diplomas.
Entry requirements
In order to study for this course, you must meet the following requirements:
- Be a UK resident and have been for the last 3 years
- Have access to the internet and Microsoft Word or similar
Studying with us
How it works
A comprehensive approach to online study for your Access to HE Diploma
Online Access
Study online using your very own login details.
Personal Tutor
Get access to a personal tutor, dedicated to helping you achieve.
Fast Marking
We offer some of the quickest marking turnaround in the UK.
In-depth lessons
All the lessons and materials are provided on your course.
First Class Support
Speak to our outstanding support staff over the phone or online.
Flexible Study
Login and study any time you like – perfect around other commitments.
University Approved
All Access to Higher Education Diplomas are designed to provide a recognised route into university, giving you the qualifications needed to progress in your chosen subject area. This Diploma develops your skills in independent study, research, and academic writing, while also covering subject-specific units related to health and social care practice.
After completing this Health and Social Care Diploma, you will be eligible to apply for degree programmes in Health and Social Care, Social Work, or related fields at universities and higher education providers across the UK. If you already have a particular university in mind, it is always important to check their entry requirements to ensure they accept Access to Higher Education Diplomas for undergraduate study.
UK universities that accept Access to Higher Education Diplomas for Health and Social Care degrees include many of the country’s leading institutions including:
University of Liverpool
University of Brighton
University of York
University of Birmingham
University of Manchester
University of West London
Frequently Asked Questions
When can I start this Access Diploma?
You can enrol and start this course at any time – enrolments are fully flexible and you have the option to enrol whenever it suits you.
What are the entry requirements?
There are no specific entry requirements for this Diploma. The program is designed to prepare you for university and includes numerous sections which prepare you for higher education but students do not require any specific qualifications on entry to the Diploma.
You will need to be a UK residency to study with us but can reside outside of the UK while studying.
Do I get UCAS points?
Yes you do!
Access to Higher Education Diplomas give students up to 144 UCAS points – the exact points achieved would depend on the grade obtained on each of the 60 credits. The full 144 UCAS points is equivalent to achieving 3 A’s at A Level. You can find out more about the UCAS tariff points using the Tariff Calculator.
How long does it take to pass?
On average, an Access to Higher Education Diploma takes 600 hours of study in total. This equates to around 1 day of learning per week to complete the Diploma in 1 year. All students on our courses have a 2 year enrolment length which gives plenty of time to work through the assignments and complete your Diploma.
Can I pass faster?
Yes you can. Our Access to HE Diplomas allow you to work at your own pace once enrolled and you can submit your assignments as quickly as you like once you are enrolled.
How do you get assessed?
All assessments on this Diploma are done through Tutor Marked Assignments (TMAs) and there are no exams. Assignments can be completed as soon as you are ready and submitted to your tutor. Once each of these has been signed off, the Diploma is complete.
Assignments on the course include written coursework, research tasks as well as a project which requires planning and completion. Each assignment has a limited number of attempts when you are completing work and full feedback is given by your tutor.
All about Health and Social Care
What do Social Care Practitioners do?
Health and Social Care professionals work with people of all ages to support their physical, emotional, and social wellbeing. Depending on their role and setting, responsibilities can include:
- Supporting individuals – Helping people with daily living, independence, and wellbeing.
- Safeguarding and advocacy – Protecting vulnerable people and ensuring their rights are respected.
- Working within communities – Delivering services that promote inclusion, health, and social development.
- Collaborating with professionals – Working alongside healthcare workers, educators, and local authorities to provide joined-up care.
- Promoting wellbeing – Encouraging healthier lifestyles and supporting mental and emotional health.
It’s a diverse and rewarding profession where you can specialise in areas such as children and families, older people, disability support, or community development.
Why work in Health and Social Care?
A career in Health and Social Care is meaningful, flexible, and in high demand. Here are some key reasons to consider this pathway:
- Make a difference – Support people to live safer, healthier, and more fulfilling lives.
- Job security & progression – Health and Social Care professionals are in demand across the UK, with strong career prospects.
- Variety of roles – Opportunities in children’s services, adult care, community projects, and specialist support.
- Room to specialise – Develop your career in areas such as safeguarding, social work, community health, or policy.
- Lifelong learning – Continue your professional development through degrees, advanced qualifications, and on-the-job training.
If you’re passionate about helping others and want a career where your work has a real impact, Health and Social Care could be the perfect path for you.
Speak to our advisors
Unsure on how to get started and need some advice? Our helpful course advisors are here to help!
Talk to an expert on the right Access course for you, how it all works and what you need to do to get enrolled and on your way to your dream career.
Contact an advisor