Certificate of Higher Education in Healthcare Practice at The Open University

Programme overview

This certificate enables healthcare support staff to develop the knowledge, skills and understanding needed to underpin effective practice, covering biological, social, political, ethical and psychological aspects of healthcare. It is equivalent to the first stage of a foundation degree or an honours degree.

Duration: 1 year at a pace equivalent to full-time, or 2 years part-time (120 credits) | Intake: October | Study mode: part-time distance learning | Location: Milton Keynes, England, United Kingdom

What you will study

Students study Introducing health and social care (K102) and the work-based module Introduction to healthcare practice (K104).

Career pathways

Builds employability skills in communication, IT, problem-solving, planning and organisation and prepares for further academic study; it offers no guarantee of promotion.

Official programme page

Application information

Entry requirements

Employer support is required for the work-based module Introduction to healthcare practice (K104), including supervision by a registered nurse for the 770 practice hours needed to complete the module. Applicants cannot apply online; employers and individuals contact the university directly to register.

Domestic applicants: GBP 4,088 a year (2026/27). England fee; part-time study of 60 credits per year over 2 years Source

Intake: October

Duration: 1 year at a pace equivalent to full-time, or 2 years part-time (120 credits)

Explore more study programmes

Health Sciences