Level 3 National Extended Diploma in Health and Social Care (Health Studies)
Studying for a Level 3 National Extended Diploma in Health and Social Care (Health Studies) can offer several compelling reasons for those passionate about making a positive impact in people’s lives and pursuing a career in this vital health and social care sector.
- Comprehensive and In-Depth Learning: The Level 3 National Extended Diploma offers a detailed exploration of health and social care, covering a range of essential topics, including human growth and development, safeguarding, health and safety, and promoting health and well-being. This allows students to gain an in-depth understanding of the sector, preparing them for more specialised roles.
- Wide Range of Career Opportunities: With the Level 3 qualification, you’ll be eligible for a variety of roles within health and social care, such as care manager, healthcare assistant, support worker, social care worker, or health promotion officer. The extended diploma is designed to equip you with the knowledge and skills needed for both frontline and managerial roles across diverse settings like hospitals, care homes, social services, Paramedics, Allied Health Professionals and community-based care.
- Pathway to University and Further Study: For students interested in progressing to higher education, the Level 3 National Extended Diploma is equivalent to three A-Levels. This makes it an ideal choice for those aiming to pursue a degree in nursing, social work, paramedics, psychology, or other health-related fields. The qualification is recognised by universities and can help strengthen your application for further study.
- Practical Experience and Placements: The course typically includes practical work placements, minimum 100hrs, giving you hands-on experience in real-world health and social care environments. These placements are invaluable for developing practical skills, boosting your confidence, and gaining insights into the day-to-day responsibilities of professionals in the field.
- Developing Essential Personal and Professional Skills: The diploma not only teaches the technical knowledge required for a career in health and social care, but also focuses on developing key personal attributes like empathy, communication, critical thinking, and teamwork. These skills are crucial for building effective relationships with patients, colleagues, and clients in the care sector.
- Job Security and Growing Demand: The health and social care sector is expanding due to the ageing population and increasing demand for support services. This means that there are numerous job opportunities and long-term career prospects for those qualified in this field. The Level 3 National Extended Diploma positions you as a competitive candidate in a growing industry.
- Making a Positive Impact: Many individuals choose to study health and social care because they are motivated by the desire to make a difference in the lives of others. The qualification equips you with the skills to provide compassionate and high-quality care to those who need it, whether in a healthcare setting, social services, or community care roles.
- Versatility and Flexibility: The Level 3 Extended Diploma allows you to explore different areas of health and social care, giving you the flexibility to specialise or transition into various fields, from elderly care to mental health services. The qualification offers diverse opportunities to shape your career based on your interests and strengths.
This is a two year programme and in Year 1 you undertake the National foundation Diploma in health and social care.
There will be 13 Units in total, some of which will have external exams and some will be course work.
8 Mandatory Units and 5 Optional Units.
- Human life span development
- Working in Health and Social Care
- Anatomy and Physiology for health and social care
- meeting individual care and support needs
Work placement in either a care or health setting along with a project are integral parts of the course.
To be eligible for the Level 3 National Extended Diploma in Health and Social Care, students need to meet the following entry requirements:
- 5 GCSEs, including GCSE English and Maths at grade C or above. Ideally, students should also have GCSE Science or an equivalent qualification.
- If progressing from a Level 2 Diploma, students must have achieved an overall Merit or Distinction grade.
- Students will need to complete a reference from their previous school or tutor to their suitability to complete a full-time Health and Social Care course.
- Students are also required to complete an Access NI check (a criminal background check in Northern Ireland).
Additionally, students must:
- Provide evidence of securing a suitable placement that meets the course’s entry requirements before starting the programme.
- Successfully pass the interview process as part of the admissions procedure.
These entry criteria ensure that students have the necessary foundational knowledge, experience, and checks in place before embarking on their studies in health and social care.
Mandatory Units:
8 Mandatory Units and 5 Optional Units to complete over 2 years.
Human Lifespan Development (external exam)
Working in Health and Social Care (external exam)
Anatomy and Physiology for Health and Social Care (external exam)
Enquiries into Current Research in Health and Social Care (external exam)
Meeting Individual Care and Support needs (internal coursework)
Work experience in Health and Socia Care (internal coursework/minimum 100hrs to complete)
Promoting Public Health (internal coursework)
Principles of Safe Practice in Health and Social Care (internal coursework)
Successful completion of this programme will enable you to apply for a range of roles within the Health and Social Care sector, or it can provide a pathway to further education, such as a Higher National Certificate (HNC) or university courses in related fields. This qualification offers both the practical experience and academic foundation to progress in your career or continue your studies at a higher level.
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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.
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