BSc (Hons) Health and Social Care Top-Up

Advance Your Career with a One-Year Degree in Healthcare Leadership

The BSc (Hons) Health and Social Care Top-Up is a one-year undergraduate programme designed for professionals who have completed a Foundation Degree or HND in Health and Social Care and are looking to progress into senior roles in healthcare management, public health, and community services . This accelerated course equips students with advanced leadership skills, ethical decision-making capabilities, and evidence-based practice knowledge—ensuring you graduate ready to lead in modern healthcare environments.

Whether you’re working in NHS departments, private healthcare, social care organisations, or community health settings , this top-up degree provides the academic and practical foundation needed to take on greater responsibility and influence policy development across the sector.

This qualification also serves as a gateway to further postgraduate study in public health, healthcare management, social work, and advanced clinical practice .

Programme Highlights

• Specialist Healthcare Knowledge: Gain insight into contemporary issues shaping the UK and global healthcare landscape.
• Leadership & Management Development: Build strategic thinking, team leadership, and service improvement skills.
• Evidence-Based Practice Focus: Apply research and data to improve patient outcomes and organisational performance.
• Flexible Study Options: Designed for working professionals, available full-time, part-time, or through blended learning.
• Career-Focused Curriculum: Aligned with NHS and social care priorities, supporting progression into leadership roles.

Course Structure: From Foundation to Honours-Level Expertise

This top-up degree builds upon prior qualifications and real-world experience, enhancing your academic profile while developing your professional competencies in just one year.

Core Modules:

• Leadership and Management in Health and Social Care – Strengthen your ability to lead teams, manage change, and implement effective service delivery strategies.
• Contemporary Issues in Healthcare – Explore current challenges including digital transformation, mental health, and integrated care systems.
• Public Health and Wellbeing – Learn how to promote population health, prevent illness, and support community-based interventions.
• Ethical and Legal Aspects in Healthcare – Understand governance, safeguarding, and compliance frameworks in modern care environments.
• Evidence-Based Practice – Develop skills in critical appraisal, research application, and data-driven decision-making.
• Independent Research Project – Conduct an applied research study or case investigation aligned with your career interests.

Please note: Module availability may vary depending on university and delivery mode.

Entry Requirements: Who Should Apply?

This course is ideal for:

• Students with a Foundation Degree or HND in Health and Social Care or related field.
• Professionals with relevant work experience in healthcare, nursing, social work, or community services .
• International applicants must meet English language requirements (typically IELTS 6.0 or equivalent ).
• No formal healthcare background? Some institutions offer bridging modules or pathway courses for non-traditional learners.

All applications are subject to university approval and interview where required.

Skills You Will Develop

By studying this top-up degree, you will gain:

• Strategic Leadership Capabilities – Manage teams, drive service improvements, and lead organisational change.
• Critical Thinking and Problem-Solving – Analyse complex care scenarios and implement effective solutions.
• Research and Evaluation Techniques – Use data to inform practice and policy decisions.
• Policy Development Insight – Shape local and national health initiatives with evidence-based strategies.
• Professional Ethics and Governance – Navigate legal frameworks, patient rights, and safeguarding responsibilities.

Teaching & Assessment Methods

You will learn through a combination of:

• Lectures and seminars led by experienced healthcare leaders
• Case studies and real-world policy discussions
• Group projects and reflective practice
• Independent research and applied assignments

Assessment includes:

• Written reports and essays
• Policy proposals and presentations
• Reflective portfolios and research submissions
• Final independent study project

Regular feedback and academic support ensure you build confidence and competence throughout the programme.

Career Prospects: Unlock Senior Roles in Health and Social Care

A BSc (Hons) in Health and Social Care opens doors to meaningful careers across the sector, including:

• Healthcare Manager – Leading departments, units, or multi-disciplinary teams in hospitals and clinics.
• Community Health Coordinator – Supporting vulnerable populations and delivering preventative care programmes.
• Public Health Specialist – Working with local authorities and government agencies to improve population wellbeing.
• Social Care Leader – Managing care homes, rehabilitation centres, or home-based support services.
• Policy Development Officer – Influencing national and regional healthcare strategy and reform.
• Further Postgraduate Study – Progress to an MSc in Public Health, MA in Social Work , or Postgraduate Certificate in Advanced Clinical Practice .

Graduates have gone on to successful roles in the NHS, local councils, third-sector charities, and private healthcare providers .

With its strong emphasis on leadership, ethics, and public health , this qualification significantly enhances your credibility and employability in today’s evolving healthcare environment.

Why Choose Our Programme?

• Fast-Track Completion: Earn your full honours degree in just one year of full-time study.
• Industry-Relevant Content: Developed in collaboration with healthcare professionals and social care experts.
• Flexible Learning Paths: Available full-time, part-time, or online—ideal for working professionals.
• Strong Employability Focus: Designed to support career advancement into managerial and specialist roles.
• Central London Location: Delivered at a university with strong links to the NHS, public health bodies, and social care networks.

Start Your Journey Toward a Leadership Role in Health and Social Care Today

Whether you’re looking to formalise your experience with a full honours degree, transition into management, or prepare for postgraduate study, the BSc (Hons) Health and Social Care Top-Up gives you the strategic insight and practical tools you need to succeed.

Apply now and take the next step toward becoming a leader in healthcare and social services.