Certificate of Higher Education in Health and Social Care at University of Sunderland

Programme overview

Are you passionate about caring for the community? Do you want to be at the forefront of policy change for the most vulnerable in society? The Certificate of Higher Education (CertHE) in Health and Social Care could be for you. When you complete the course, you can progress onto Level 5 of the BSc (Hons) Health and Social Care. If you meet extra requirements, you may be able to join a nursing or social work course. In this case, you'd be guaranteed an interview.

Department: Social Sciences | Duration: 1 year full-time at partner study centres | Study mode: full-time | Intake: September 2026 | Location: Sunderland, England, United Kingdom

What you will study

This one-year, Level 4 course provides a strong foundation in health and social care practice. You'll gain essential skills and explore some key topics including: Social determinants of health, policy, and legislation; Safeguarding; Health and wellbeing; The development of the UK welfare system. We deliver the CertHE at East Durham College. You'll learn in a supportive environment and have access to some excellent facilities.

Official programme page

Application information

Entry requirements

To apply for this course you need: 56 UCAS points from a recognised Level 3 qualification. These can include A Levels, T Levels, BTEC Level 3, NVQ Level 3, or equivalent. A relevant subject area (such as health and social care) is preferred. Please note, we don't accept General Studies A Level. At least three GCSEs at grade C or above. This must include maths and English language, or a minimum of Level 2 Key Skills in Communication and Application of Number. If GCSEs are graded numerically, a grade 4 or above is required. We also prefer you to have relevant experience in health and social care. The experience can be from paid or voluntary work. You may be eligible to apply if you don’t have formal qualifications but have at least two years’ relevant work experience. You'll need an enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check before starting the course.

Domestic applicants: GBP 7,777 a year (2026/27). Full-time fee as listed for this course Source

Intake: September 2026

Duration: 1 year full-time at partner study centres

Apply through the official page: https://www.sunderland.ac.uk/undergraduate/certificate-he-health-social-care#apply

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