BSc Single Honours Health and Social Care (with Foundation Year)
Undergraduate
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Explore how strategic leadership and inclusive safeguarding shape health and social care practice. The BSc (Hons) Health and Social Care at Birmingham Newman University offers a supportive, research-informed route into a wide range of professional roles. If you are committed to making a difference in people’s lives, this course equips you with the knowledge, values and practical insight to lead with confidence. You will explore safeguarding systems, leadership approaches and the wider social factors that influence wellbeing across diverse communities. From your first day, you will be part of a learning environment that champions collaboration, reflection and ethical practice.
Foundation Year at Birmingham Newman University
Start with confidence. Progress with purpose.
The Foundation Year is the first year of a four-year undergraduate degree at Birmingham Newman University. It offers a flexible route into higher education for students who may not meet standard entry requirements or who are returning to study after time away. Whether you are exploring a new direction or looking to strengthen your academic foundations, this additional year of study provides the structure, support and space to help you succeed.
You’ll apply through UCAS for your chosen degree with Foundation Year. Once you’ve successfully completed the Foundation Year and met the progression criteria, you’ll move into Year 1 of your undergraduate course.
Who is the Foundation Year for?
• This route is designed for students who:
• Are returning to education after a break
• Do not currently hold the qualifications for direct entry onto a three-year degree
• Want to build confidence and academic skills before starting undergraduate study
• Are seeking a structured and supportive introduction to university life
You’ll be part of a learning community that recognises your potential and supports your development from the very beginning. The Foundation Year is not just a pathway into university. It is a purposeful and personalised start to your academic journey.
What Will I Study?
The Foundation Year focuses on helping you become a confident, reflective and independent learner. You’ll begin by exploring how you learn and identifying strategies that work for you. You’ll also engage with wider themes such as identity, inequality and the human experience in a digital world. These topics encourage critical thinking and personal insight, while connecting across subject areas.
You’ll develop core academic skills including writing, research, digital literacy and communication. These are taught through seminars, workshops, online activities and one-to-one support. The aim is not only to prepare you for your chosen subject, but to help you feel connected to your learning and to the university community.
‘For someone returning to education after a hiatus, this foundation (year) was essential in helping me regain my academic footing and feel prepared for the challenges ahead.’ – Alix Wyatt, Birmingham Newman University Alumna
What Happens After the Foundation Year?
Once you’ve successfully completed the Foundation Year and met the progression requirements, you’ll begin Year 1 of your undergraduate degree. You’ll already be familiar with the university environment, your subject area and the expectations of academic study, giving you a strong foundation to build on.
Why Study This Course?
This degree offers a meaningful and applied route into understanding how health and wellbeing are shaped across society. It’s ideal for students who want to make a difference in people’s lives and understand the systems that underpin care and support. Whether your interests lie in community health, social care, advocacy or policy, the course helps you build the knowledge and confidence to pursue a wide range of professional roles.
Explore Care, Context and Community Impact
This course brings health and social care to life by focusing on the real experiences of individuals, families and communities. You’ll explore how care is delivered across a range of settings, from hospitals and homes to community organisations, and examine the systems, policies and funding structures that shape those services. Through topics such as mental health, disability, ageing and public health, you’ll investigate the challenges people face and the support they need. The course also encourages you to think critically about inequality and access, and to consider how professionals can lead change, promote dignity and advocate for those most at risk. With opportunities to specialise in areas such as global health, leadership and working with vulnerable groups, you’ll be able to shape your learning around the issues that matter most to you.
Supportive and Personalised Learning
Supportive and personalised learning. At Birmingham Newman University, you will be part of a collaborative academic community that places your professional development at the centre. This course is delivered by experienced safeguarding leaders and educators who offer personalised mentoring, academic guidance and opportunities for peer learning. Whether you are based in a school, college or wider educational setting, you will be supported to apply your learning directly to your role and context. You will graduate ready to lead safeguarding with confidence, shape inclusive cultures and make a lasting difference in the lives of children and young people.

Got a question you’d like to ask?
Entry requirements, for UK home students, for September 2025 entry: 48 UCAS points Those with significant work and life experience of a complexity that demonstrates an aptitude to study at degree level, but with no formal qualifications, will also be favourably considered. Different degree pathway options available at the end of the foundation year may have different additional entry requirements. If you require any further information or clarification of entry requirements please contact our friendly, helpful Admissions department, who will be happy to help.
The full-time course fee, for UK home students, for September 2025 is: £9,535
Additional Costs
The University will review tuition fees and increase fees in line with any inflationary uplift as determined by the UK Government, if permitted by law or government policy, in subsequent years of your course. It is anticipated that such increases would be linked to RPI (the Retail Price Index excluding mortgage interest payments).
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Where this course can take you. You will graduate with a strong understanding of safeguarding and leadership in health and social care, ready to pursue roles in frontline services, education, community work or policy. Birmingham Newman graduates are recognised for their ethical leadership, critical thinking and commitment to social justice. Whether you choose to work directly with individuals, influence organisational culture or continue into postgraduate study, you will be equipped to lead change and support those who need it most. You will also join a supportive alumni network that shares your values and champions inclusive practice across the sector.
Accreditations and Exemptions
This course leads to a Postgraduate Certificate (PG Cert) at Level 7, awarded by Birmingham Newman University. While it does not include Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) or exemptions from other professional bodies, it is a nationally recognised qualification that supports progression into senior safeguarding roles, policy development and wider educational leadership. The PG Cert also provides a direct route into the MA Education (Safeguarding), allowing you to build on your expertise and continue your professional development. The course reflects Birmingham Newman University’s commitment to developing inclusive, values-led leaders who make a meaningful impact across the education sector.
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