BSc (Hons) Health and Social Care with Foundation Year
Course Overview
The BSc (Hons) Health and Social Care with Foundation Year at School of Coding & AI in collaboration with the University of Wolverhampton, is designed for individuals passionate about making a difference in the health and social care sector. This program provides an accessible entry point into higher education, supporting students with varied academic backgrounds through a foundation year that enhances study skills and confidence.
Following this, the degree program delves into key areas such as health policy, social care practice, leadership, and research methods, equipping students with the expertise required for a career in healthcare, community support, or social work. With a blend of academic study, practical application, and industry insight, this course ensures graduates are well-prepared to navigate the challenges of modern health and social care environments.
| Qualification Title | BSc (Hons) Health and Social Care with Foundation Year |
| Level | Undergraduate |
| Awarding body | University of Wolverhampton |
| Mode of Study | Full-Time |
| Duration | 4 years |
| Entry Requirements |
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| Intakes | January and September |
| Campus | Birmingham |
Course Structure & Modules
Year 1
- Module: 3SH002
- Credits: 30
- Period: 1
- Type: Core
An exploration of the health and social care sectors, examining and investigating the wide range of job roles available in your future career. Here you will begin to develop your industry-specific ‘hard’ skills that will be essential for your future career develop. As well as investigating different job roles and articulating the roles and expectations of different professionals, you will also explore the role of professional regulatory bodies, legal and professional frameworks and multi-agency working in the wider health and care sectors. You will be introduced to basic concepts from the academic discipline of social policy, examining how the organisation and delivery of welfare services relate to wider health and care needs, with a focus on equality, diversity and inclusion. You will study a range of topics to develop your understanding including; examination and identification of specific job roles, investigation of professional regulatory and legal frameworks in health and social care, communication skills, focus group discussion, poster presentation design skills, key principles of ethical practice, person-centred care and basic concepts in social policy You will continue your development as a critically reflective and person-centred practitioner with a greater awareness of the expectations placed on care professionals.
- Module: 3SH003
- Credits: 30
- Period: 1
- Type: Core
This module has been designed to nurture your employability skills and to begin the journey of developing your professional identity. You will embark on a reflective process, setting targets for your future career development and exploring the wide range of job opportunities in the health, social care and wellbeing sectors, with a focus on the knowledge and skills required to achieve your goals. This will be a practical module, with a range of tasks undertaken and ongoing feedback provided across the year enabling you to complete a reflective journal detailing your personal and professional development over time. You will develop key skills in skills-mapping, email etiquette, CV writing, cover letter writing, creation and curation of LinkedIn profile, mock job application and interview. Alongside this you will explore different career paths, professional guidance, key policies and legislation, professional ethics, anti-discriminatory practice, Person-centred care and key communication skills.
- Module: 3SH005
- Credits: 30
- Period: 1
- Type: Core
This module has been designed to develop the core academic skills that will be essential for success in higher education. Taking a practical approach, you will develop the necessary building blocks required to convey your ideas in an academic fashion and to achieve strong grades at university. Working towards the completion of a 1000-word written assignment, in which you will engage with a range of different academic sources and use these to develop and support your ideas. In this module we will teach you how to writing for academic purpose including developing key skills; Finding and selecting academic sources, Notetaking, Assignment planning, Referencing, Use of information technology to support written communication, Academic integrity, Use of AI in support of assignment development. Academic skills such as planning, organisation, source selection, critical analysis and academic writing are not only important with regards to your university organisation but play an important role in your professional development as well, by enabling you to engage critically with policy documents and contemporary research before conveying your thoughts in a written fashion. This module is the first stage in the ongoing development of your research skills, with learning scaffolded as you progress through the course of your studies.
- Module: 3HW005
- Credits: 30
- Period: 1
- Type: Core
This module will introduce you to basic concepts in psychology and sociology and allow you to examine their application and relevance to contemporary issues in health and wellbeing. You will examine a range of case studies exploring the structural factors which shape health outcomes for individuals across diverse communities, whilst reflecting on the wider context of British society. You will explore population data in relation to health inequalities and socioeconomic status, with a particular focus on race, ethnicity, gender and geography. You will examine a selection of case studies to give you a choice over the focus of your final assignment. We will introduce you to theoretical models (Maslow’s hierarchy, social determinants of health and the biopsychosocial model), Indices of Deprivation data, ward profiles and other public health data, Basic information and concepts relating to health inequalities, social exclusion and its impact on health and wellbeing. As the module progresses, you will develop an awareness of how different theoretical models can be used to generate explanations for social phenomena, as well as insights in how to challenge social inequalities.
Year 2
- Module: 4SH015
- Credits: 30
- Period: 2
- Type: Core
This module explores health and social care as a social justice issue, helping you understand why some individuals and communities experience poorer health and wellbeing than others. You will examine how factors such as income, education, housing, discrimination and where people live shape life chances, influence choices, and affect access to care and support. You will explore key ideas around health inequalities, the social determinants of health, and how social policy and legislation aim to reduce inequality and promote fairness. Through real-life case studies involving children, adults and older people, you will see how inequalities happen in practice and how professionals can respond effectively and ethically. The module places strong emphasis on professional values, safeguarding, and person-centred approaches to care. You will develop skills in empathetic communication, collaborative working and community engagement, and explore place-based and solution-focused approaches to tackling inequality. Throughout the module, you will be encouraged to reflect on your own values and responsibilities as a future professional, particularly your role in challenging unfairness, promoting inclusion, and empowering individuals and communities to make informed choices that support health, wellbeing and social justice.
- Module: 4SH016
- Credits: 30
- Period: 2
- Type: Core
Human Growth & Development Across the Lifespan helps you understand how people grow, change and develop from birth through to older adulthood. You will explore how biological, psychological and social factors shape development, including the influence of family, culture, education, health, relationships and ageing. You will learn about key developmental theories from thinkers such as Erikson, Piaget, Vygotsky and Bandura, and understand how these ideas help professionals support people in real health and social care settings. The module also looks at important life transitions, such as starting school, becoming a parent, experiencing illness, or later-life changes, and how these moments can affect wellbeing and resilience. Throughout the module, you will develop practical skills by working with case studies, videos and activities that reflect real situations. You will practise applying theory to practice, reflect on your own values and assumptions, and build awareness of ethics, safeguarding, and equality, diversity and inclusion (EDI). By the end of the module, you will have a strong understanding of how human development connects to wellbeing and care across the lifespan, helping you develop a compassionate, person-centred approach to professional practice.
- Module: 4SH017
- Credits: 30
- Period: 2
- Type: Core
This extended induction module supports your transition into university life and introduces your chosen academic discipline. It helps you build confidence, develop an academic identity, and understand expectations of higher education, including independent learning, digital literacy, and ethical practice such as referencing and responsible use of AI. The module is structured around key themes identified by students as essential to success: Ready to Study – understanding expectations and managing workload Academic Skills – developing critical thinking, time management, and digital skills Career Readiness – exploring career pathways and professional behaviours Personal Development – building confidence, belonging, and identity Community Engagement – connecting with peers and university life Feedback and Reflection – using feedback to support development Wellbeing and Support – accessing services and strategies for success This module lays the foundation for future study, including the Level 5 Professional Development module and placement experiences. It runs alongside Essentials of Professional Practice at Level 4, incorporating discipline-specific content, case studies, and professional standards relevant to Health and Social Care. This supports your success across Level 4 and helps you connect learning to future study and career goals.
- Module: 4SH014
- Credits: 30
- Period: 2
- Type: Core
This module introduces the essential professional skills, behaviours and values needed to work effectively in health and social care settings. You will develop confidence in professional communication, learn how to work safely and ethically, and build the skills needed to support individuals, families and carers with a range of needs. Teaching focuses on practical, applied learning through simulation, role-play, case studies and reflective activities. You will practise key skills such as active listening, empathy, professional questioning, record writing and recognising safeguarding concerns. The module also explores cultural humility, trauma-informed practice, power and privilege, and ethical decision-making, helping you reflect on your own values and behaviour as a developing professional. As part of this module, you will complete a Professional Practice Workbook, which is your main (summative) assessment. The workbook includes a series of short, manageable activities based on real health and social care situations. These tasks allow you to demonstrate your knowledge, skills and professional values through practical responses and short reflections, rather than a long essay. The workbook is designed to be supportive and closely linked to class activities, preparing you for Level 5 work-based learning and helping you develop a confident and reflective professional identity.
Year 3
- Module: 5SH012
- Credits: 30
- Period: 3
- Type: Core
In this module, you will build on your Level 4 learning through a blend of taught sessions, self-directed study, and real-world experience to support your professional development. You will take part in interactive workshops focusing on leadership awareness, professional communication, and career planning, alongside 60 hours of work-based learning completed through placement, employment, or sector-based analysis. You will attend practice skills sessions across adult and children’s sectors, working with safeguarding case scenarios using anonymised cases. These sessions will support the development of intervention and assessment skills, professional communication, and ethical decision-making, including professional boundaries. You will also engage in advanced safeguarding, risk management, and reflective supervision activities to support safe and effective practice. Online learning and independent study will include reflective journal activities, portfolio development, and preparation for presentations. Formative feedback on draft work and presentations will support your reflection and preparation for summative assessment.
- Module: 5SH011
- Credits: 30
- Period: 3
- Type: Core
This module explores the complex health and social care needs of adults and older people, with a focus on ageing, long-term conditions, identity and social circumstances across the life course. You will examine how factors such as inequality, culture, housing, migration and life experiences shape health, wellbeing and access to support in adulthood and later life. You will explore person-centred and strengths-based approaches that promote independence, dignity and wellbeing, alongside key policy and legal frameworks such as the Care Act 2014, safeguarding responsibilities, mental capacity and ethical decision-making. The module also considers end-of-life care, anticipatory planning and supported decision-making. Learning is based around realistic case scenarios, including global and cross-cultural examples, which encourage critical thinking, reflective judgement and the application of evidence-based practice. You will engage with research, policy and lived experience to understand how services respond to complex needs, long-term conditions and health inequalities. If you have career aspirations in working with adults and older people, this module provides a strong foundation that you can build on through practical placement opportunities in adult health and social care settings. At Level 6, you can further deepen your subject specialism through an independent research project and modules focusing on mental health, leadership and service improvement, supporting strong employability and a clear professional focus for your CV.
- Module: 5SH013
- Credits: 30
- Period: 3
- Type: Core
This module explores how children, families and communities function within wider health, social care and policy contexts. You will examine the factors influencing wellbeing, including social inequalities, family structures, safeguarding and early intervention. You will develop an understanding of how services work together to promote safety, health and resilience, and how social policy and legislation shape professional practice. Through real‑world examples, case studies and professional scenarios, you will build confidence in working directly with children, young people and families across different settings. The module emphasises practical professional skills, including communication, assessment and interpersonal skills. You will explore risk assessment, safety planning, therapeutic conversations and family support work, alongside reflective and ethical practice grounded in equality, inclusion and anti‑oppressive values. If you aspire to work with children, families and communities, this module provides a strong foundation that you can build on through placements in the children’s sector. At Level 6, you can deepen your specialism through a research project focused on children and families and by choosing the optional Applied Trauma‑Informed Practice in Family Settings module. This pathway strengthens employability and gives your CV a clear professional focus.
- Module: 5SH010
- Credits: 30
- Period: 3
- Type: Core
This module deepens your understanding of how research is designed, conducted, analysed and applied within health and social care. It builds directly on the Level 4 Introduction to Research and Evidence-Informed Practice module and prepares you for more independent study at Level 6. You will explore and develop your understanding of different research methodologies, ethical frameworks and data-collection techniques used to investigate issues affecting health, wellbeing and service provision. The module places strong emphasis on interpreting and analysing both quantitative and qualitative data, helping you develop the skills needed to judge the quality, relevance and usefulness of research evidence. Ethical principles are embedded throughout, including the ethical approval process and ethical considerations for both primary and secondary research. You will strengthen your practical research and analytical skills, enabling you to read, critique and apply research findings with confidence. By the end of the module, you will be able to design a small, enhanced practical research proposal, drawing on the research knowledge and skills developed at Levels 4 and 5. You will learn how to select appropriate data-collection and analysis methods and present your ideas in a professional, ethical and academically sound way, preparing you for your Level 6 independent research study.
Year 4
- Module: 6SH004
- Credits: 30
- Period: 4
- Type: Core
This module represents the culmination of your academic and professional journey on the Health and Social Care degree. It provides you with the opportunity to design and complete an independent research project focused on an area of health and social care that reflects your interests, values and career aspirations. You will develop advanced research skills, including literature searching, critical appraisal, research design, data collection and analysis. With guidance and supervision, you will learn how to plan and carry out a small-scale research project in a rigorous and ethical way, drawing on research methods introduced at Levels 4 and 5. Your research may focus on issues affecting children, adults, families or communities, and can explore topics such as inequality, policy, service delivery, wellbeing or professional practice. A strong emphasis is placed on research-informed practice, ethical responsibility and reflective thinking, particularly when working with vulnerable groups. Throughout the module, you will critically reflect on how research evidence can be used to improve practice, inform policy and support service development. You will also develop the ability to present your findings clearly and professionally, strengthening your confidence, independence and employability. By the end of the module, you will have produced a substantial piece of independent work that demonstrates your readiness for graduate-level professional practice, leadership or further study.
- Module: 6SH011
- Credits: 30
- Period: 4
- Type: Core
This module develops your knowledge, skills, and professional identity (Knowing, Doing, and Being) in leadership and management within health and social care. It equips you with the confidence and practical tools to lead effectively in complex and changing environments. You will explore key leadership theories and management approaches, examining how policy, organisational structures, and governance shape service delivery across the NHS, local authorities, and the voluntary sector. The module focuses on leading teams, managing resources, driving service improvement, and promoting ethical, inclusive, and anti-oppressive practice. Through critical reflection and real-world case studies, you will examine leadership in safeguarding, risk management, and multi-agency working. You will also develop skills in supervision, communication, conflict resolution, and change management. The module is informed by current research and professional practice, ensuring learning is relevant and applied. By the end, you will be well prepared for leadership and management roles, with enhanced employability and the ability to make a positive impact on service users, staff, and organisations.
- Module: 6SH007
- Credits: 30
- Period: 4
- Type: Optional
This module introduces you to trauma-informed practice and how it can be applied effectively across health and social care settings. You will explore how trauma, including adverse childhood experiences (ACEs), attachment disruption and life-course adversity, can impact individuals, families and communities, and how professionals can respond in ways that promote safety, resilience and empowerment. You will develop an understanding of trauma theory, including psychological and neurobiological responses to trauma, and explore recovery-oriented and strengths-based approaches to practice. The module places strong emphasis on reflective practice, empathy and effective communication, helping you recognise and reduce the risk of re-traumatisation while supporting wellbeing and recovery. Practical application is a core feature of this module. Through case studies, discussion and skills-based activities, you will build confidence in applying trauma-informed principles such as safety, trust, choice, collaboration and empowerment in real-world contexts. You will also explore the role of supervision, self-awareness and emotional regulation in sustaining safe and ethical practice. This module builds on Level 4 modules Human Growth and Development Across the Lifespan and Level 5 Professional Practice with Children, Families and Communities. By completing this module, you will graduate with enhanced specialist knowledge that strengthens your employability in areas such as children and families services, mental health, adult social care and community-based support.
- Module: 6SH008
- Credits: 30
- Period: 4
- Type: Optional
Young people today experience rapid social, cultural, economic and digital change, creating both challenges and opportunities for health and social care practice. This subject-specialist module explores the contemporary issues affecting young people and examines how services, communities and professionals respond to support safety, wellbeing and empowerment. Building directly on your learning from Human Growth and Development Across the Lifespan and Children, Families and Communities, this module deepens your understanding of adolescence and emerging adulthood. You will examine issues such as poverty and inequality, exploitation, serious youth violence, mental health, digital risk and online harm, alongside opportunities for youth voice, participation, belonging and resilience. You will critically explore how policy, education, social care, community services and digital spaces shape young people’s lives, and how professionals can work ethically and effectively using trauma-informed, rights-based and anti-oppressive approaches. Learning is practical and discussion-based, using case studies, media, policy texts and youth voice materials to develop your confidence in analysing complex situations and proposing evidence-informed responses. This module prepares you for roles working with young people in social care, education, youth justice, health, early intervention and community settings, and supports progression into advanced practice and Level 6 research specialism.
- Module: 6SH009
- Credits: 30
- Period: 4
- Type: Optional
This module explores critical and contemporary issues in mental health, focusing on how social, cultural, political and systemic factors shape mental health experiences and service responses. You will examine how inequality, discrimination and the wider social determinants of health influence mental wellbeing across different communities and life experiences. Through engagement with theory, policy, lived experience and applied case studies, you will develop advanced critical thinking and analytical skills relevant to complex mental health practice. The module encourages you to question dominant approaches to mental health, exploring medical, psychological and social models, alongside intersectional perspectives that recognise the impact of race, gender, disability, sexuality and socioeconomic status. You will examine key practice challenges, including trauma, risk, safeguarding, ethics, consent, capacity and autonomy, and consider how professionals balance care, control and rights within mental health settings. Contemporary debates around digital mental health, surveillance and emerging technologies are also explored. The module places strong emphasis on person-centred, reflective and recovery-oriented practice, supporting you to develop cultural competence, ethical awareness and professional judgement. By the end of the module, you will be well prepared for roles requiring high-level decision-making, critical reflection and evidence-based practice in mental health, social care, community and wellbeing services.
- Module: 6SH010
- Credits: 30
- Period: 4
- Type: Optional
Health Promotion is an increasingly important discipline focused on preventing ill health and reducing inequalities. It includes health development, improvement, and protection, forming a key part of modern public health practice. This module develops the knowledge and skills needed for effective health promotion. You will be introduced to core concepts and principles underpinning health promotion in England, using a population-based approach. The module draws on disciplines such as psychology, sociology, health sciences, economics, and social policy to provide a broad understanding of health and wellbeing. The module explores both theoretical and practical aspects of health promotion, including models, strategies, and behaviour change theories. You will learn how to assess community health needs, plan interventions, and evaluate the benefits and challenges of community engagement in promoting healthy lifestyles. You will also critically examine evidence-based approaches to public health and consider how wider determinants, such as inequality and social factors, influence the health of individuals, families, and communities. Case studies will be used to demonstrate health promotion in practice across different settings, helping you apply theory to real-world contexts.
- Module: 6SH006
- Credits: 30
- Period: 4
- Type: Optional
This module explores how innovation, with a particular focus on telehealth and telecare, shapes service improvement and the quality of care across health and social care settings. Students will examine how evidence, digital technologies, and multi-agency collaboration support practice developments that enhance independence, wellbeing, and outcomes for individuals, families, and communities. The module introduces students to telehealth and telecare systems used by service users and organisations, exploring how these technologies support prevention, remote monitoring, risk management, and continuity of care. Students will critically assess service effectiveness, identify digital gaps affecting both service users and organisations, and evaluate how these gaps influence access, experience, and equity. Students will learn to evaluate how telehealth interventions can reduce avoidable hospitalisation and how telecare solutions support people to live safely and independently at home. The module also examines how health and care organisations use digital technologies, including AI-enabled systems, to improve efficiency, coordination, and decision-making. Consideration is given to the current digital climate and how technological developments are reshaping professional roles, organisational processes, and service delivery models. Ethical and legal frameworks, including GDPR, data protection, consent, and information governance, are central to the module. Inclusivity, digital accessibility, and person-centred values underpin all learning and assessment. By the end of the module, students will have the knowledge, critical awareness, and professional confidence to engage with telehealth and telecare innovation in practice and contribute meaningfully to digitally enabled service improvement within contemporary health and social care systems.
Fees Structure
| Location | Mode | Foundation Year Fee | Sep intake Fee | Year |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Home | Full-time | £9535 | £9535 per year | 2025-26 |
| Home | Full-time | £9790 | £9790 per year | 2026-27 |
Programme Lead for Health and Social Care
Kellonie is an experienced Health and Social Care and Public Health leader with extensive expertise in education, training, curriculum development, quality assurance and sector practice. Proven track record of leading high-performing teaching teams, driving learner achievement and developing innovative, inclusive programmes that reflect current industry standards and evidence-based practice.
Passionate about advancing health and social care education, Kellonie is committed to equipping learners with the knowledge, skills and professional values needed to thrive in a rapidly evolving sector. With a strong focus on learner success, community wellbeing and workforce development, Kellonie works to inspire the next generation of health and social care professionals while promoting excellence, equity and positive outcomes across the sector.
Entry Requirements
To be eligible for the BSc (Hons) Health and Social Care with Foundation Year at School of Coding & AI, you should meet the following criteria (subject to validation):
- UCAS Points Requirement: Applicants must have at least 48 UCAS tariff points to ensure accessibility for students from varied educational backgrounds.
- Core GCSEs: GCSE English and Mathematics at grade C/4 or equivalent are necessary to provide basic communication and numeracy abilities.
- Additional Qualifications: Professional or occupational qualifications, as well as relevant work experience, may be considered throughout the application process.
Benefits
At School of Coding & AI, our foundation course blends academic excellence with practical experience, preparing you to thrive in the dynamic fields of health and social care. The SOC Higher Education Advantage includes:
- Foundation Year assistance: This year is designed for those who are returning to school or who have taken a different academic route. It provides targeted assistance to help them gain confidence and essential skills.
- Practical Focus: The curriculum incorporates real-world scenarios to prepare students for practical issues in health and social care settings.
- University Experience: Studying at the School of Coding & AI in collaboration with the University of Wolverhampton, guarantees a full and stimulating educational experience.
Further Career
- Health and Social Care Practitioners: Work directly with individuals and communities to provide important assistance and services.
- Community Development Worker: Helps to enhance communities' quality of life by recognising needs and executing effective initiatives.
- Health Promotion Specialists: Create and implement efforts to promote better lives and well-being among diverse groups.
This program provides graduates with the information and skills they need to flourish in a variety of professions in the health and social care sectors, supporting positive change and promoting well-being in different communities.
FAQs
This course is ideal for students interested in health and social care professions, including those returning to education, those with non-traditional qualifications, or individuals looking to transition into a rewarding career in the sector.
Graduates can pursue careers in roles such as health and social care practitioners, community development officers, care coordinators, health promotion specialists, and social work assistants. The degree also provides a strong foundation for further study, such as postgraduate qualifications in social work or healthcare management.
The foundation year is designed to boost academic confidence and skills through personalized support, study skills workshops, and mentoring. Tutors provide guidance on academic writing, research methods, and professional development to ensure students transition smoothly into the full degree program.
Assessment methods include written assignments, group projects, presentations, case studies, and examinations. These diverse approaches ensure students develop both practical and theoretical expertise applicable in real-world health and social care settings.
No prior experience is necessary. The foundation year provides essential knowledge and skills, making the course accessible to students from all educational backgrounds. However, relevant work experience or a passion for helping others can be beneficial in understanding course concepts.
Get in Touch
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