Diploma of Higher Education in Social Care (Scotland) at The Open University

Programme overview

A 240-credit distance-learning diploma deepening understanding of social care and social work in Scotland, preparing students to support vulnerable adults and children in diverse settings. It emphasises collaboration across professional boundaries and puts service users at the centre.

Duration: 240 credits; 2 years full-time or 4 years part-time | Intake: February 2027; October 2027 | Study mode: part-time distance learning | Location: Milton Keynes, England, United Kingdom

What you will study

Modules include Introducing health and social care (K102), Foundations for social care and social work practice (K123), Critical ideas in wellbeing and public health (K212), Death, dying and bereavement (K220), Critical perspectives on mental health in society (K243), Social work law (K271) and Supporting children and young people's wellbeing (KE207).

Career pathways

Builds study skills, digital and information literacy, reflective writing and understanding of health and social care.

Official programme page

Application information

Entry requirements

There are no formal entry requirements, but students must be working in, or have access to, a social care agency, for example through paid employment or voluntary work. A period of 10 days' preparation for practice is completed during Foundations for social care and social work practice (K123), ideally shadowing a qualified social worker.

Domestic applicants: GBP 4,088 a year (2026/27). Part-time, England fee: 60 credits a year over 4 years (maximum chargeable fee shown for 2026/27); total fee for the qualification GBP 16,352 Source

Intake: February 2027; October 2027

Duration: 240 credits; 2 years full-time or 4 years part-time

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