Level 3 National Diploma in Health and Social Care
This two-year course is equivalent to two A Levels, with the option to exit after the first year having achieved the equivalent of one A Level. The programme combines up-to-date health and social care theory with minimum 100hrs work experience and industry-recognised practical experience within the clinical suite.
Available Sessions
We have 3 sessions available for application on this course in Lisburn, Downpatrick, Newtownards.
In-depth Knowledge and Skills: The Level 3 National Diploma provides comprehensive training in various aspects of health and social care, covering topics such as human development, working in the health sector, meeting individual care and support needs, Physiological Disorders and their care, Current research, work experience in Health and Social Care, Principles of safe practice, promoting public health, safeguarding, health and safety, and communication skills. This gives students a well-rounded understanding of the sector and prepares them for a range of roles.
Career Opportunities: With a Level 3 qualification, students become eligible for more advanced roles within health and social care, such as care supervisor, healthcare assistant, or support worker. It opens a wide range of career pathways, whether in hospitals, care homes, social services, or even working with children or vulnerable adults.
Pathway to Higher Education: For those wanting to further their studies, the Level 3 National Diploma can act as a stepping stone to the top up to the Extended Diploma or Level 4. The qualification is recognised by universities and can support applications for higher education.
Practical Work Experience: The course includes practical placements, minimum 100hrs in Year 1 allowing students to gain hands-on experience in real-world settings. This is invaluable in developing the skills and confidence needed to work in care environments.
Developing Personal Attributes: A Level 3 qualification helps students develop key personal attributes such as empathy, resilience, communication, and problem-solving skills. These are essential in providing quality care and support to individuals in various settings.
Making a Difference: Many people are drawn to health and social care because they want to make a positive impact on people's lives. The Level 3 National Diploma equips students with the knowledge and understanding to provide excellent care and support to those who need it most, whether in healthcare, social care, or community roles.
Job Security: With an increasing demand for healthcare professionals, the health and social care sector offers good job security. Having a Level 3 qualification can make you more competitive in the job market and improve your chances of securing a rewarding role in the field.
This full-time, two-year course is equivalent to two A Levels. It combines current health and social care knowledge with a minimum of 100 hours of industry-recognised practical work experience.
Students will demonstrate practical skills within a clinical suite, including personal hygiene, wound care, catheter care, and clinical observations such as blood pressure, pulse oximetry, temperature, and peak flow.
Applicants must meet the following criteria:
- A minimum of four GCSEs at Grade C or above, including Maths or English (Maths preferred).
- GCSE English or Maths at Grade D will be accepted on the condition that the student enrols on a Level 2 Essential Skills programme.
- One of the GCSEs should preferably be in science.
OR
- A Level 2 Diploma in Health and Social Care (Merit or Distinction), plus Level 2 Essential Skills in Numeracy or Literacy.
An interview is required before an offer can be made.
Students are required to complete an Access NI check (criminal background check for Northern Ireland).
Additional requirements
- Students must provide evidence of securing a suitable work placement that meets the course entry requirements, with support from the Work Placement Officer, prior to starting the course.
- Applicants must successfully pass the interview process as part of the admissions procedure.
These requirements ensure that students are suitably prepared for the course and able to meet the professional standards expected within the health and social care sector.
The programme consists of six mandatory units and two optional units, completed over two years.
Mandatory units
- Human Lifespan Development (external examination)
- Working in Health and Social Care (external examination)
- Enquiries into Current Research in Health and Social Care (external examination)
- Meeting Individual Care and Support Needs (internal coursework)
- Promoting Public Health (internal coursework)
- Principles of Safe Practice (internal coursework)
Optional units
- Work Experience in Health and Social Care (minimum 100 hours with evidence booklet)
- Physiological Disorders and Their Care (internal coursework)
Students who do not hold a GCSE grade C or above in English or Mathematics will be required to complete Essential Skills in Literacy or Numeracy. Applicants must have either GCSE grade C or above in Maths or English, or an Essential Skills Level 2 Pass in Literacy or Numeracy.
Students will attend college for a minimum of 15 hours per week.
Assessment is continuous and includes a combination of written assignments and practical assessments across all units. Health and Social Care include two external examinations in Year 1 and one external examination in Year 2.
Successful completion of this course will enable you to apply for a variety of roles within the Health and Social Care sector. Alternatively, it will provide a pathway to further education, such as a Higher National Certificate (HNC) or university courses in related fields, allowing you to continue your studies at a higher level.
Available Sessions
We have 3 sessions available for application on this course in Lisburn, Downpatrick, Newtownards.
Enquiries Information
For more information or help with this course send us an enquiry and a member of our team will get back in touch.
Available Sessions
| Title | Campus | Start | Spaces | Apply or get more information | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Level 3 National Diploma in Health and Social Care
Y10469DF1A-26/27-FT
|
Downpatrick
|
31/08/2026
|
11 |
|
||
|
Level 3 National Diploma in Health and Social Care
Y10469LF1A-26/27-FT
|
Lisburn
|
31/08/2026
|
7 |
|
||
|
Level 3 National Diploma in Health and Social Care
Y10469NF1A-26/27-FT
|
Newtownards
|
31/08/2026
|
15 |
|
||
Please select a campus from the list above to view the available sessions. |
||||||
Customer Enquiries
Need more information or have a question about this course? Send us a message below and we will get in touch.
Start New EnquiryTerms & Conditions
Students will be required to comply with SERC's Terms & Conditions of study.
We strive to ensure the description of courses on SERC's website and in publications is accurate. However, for various reasons there may be occasions when the College may need to change arrangements or be unable to deliver classes due to circumstances such as reduced funding. If there are insufficient numbers applying for a course it may not be viable to deliver the class.
Courses are continually reviewed to take advantage of new teaching approaches and developments in research, industry and the professions. Please be aware that modules may change for your year of entry. The exact modules available and their order may vary depending on course updates, staff availability, timetabling and student demand. Please contact the course team for the most up to date module list.
Further Education
If you have just completed your GCSEs, Further Education is most likely the option for you. FE covers qualifications from entry to higher level qualifications such as Awards, Certificates, Diplomas, NVQ, BTEC and Apprenticeships.
Explore Further Education