OTHM Level 3 Foundation Diploma in Health and Social Care

Develop fundamental health and social care knowledge for entry-level care positions and further study.

  • Level 3 Foundation Diploma
  • Health and Social Care
  • FoundationHealthSocialCare
  • Duration: 6 Months
  • Admission open 2026

Overview

The OTHM Level 3 Foundation Diploma in Health and Social Care is an introductory-level qualification designed for individuals seeking to build fundamental health and social care knowledge. This 60-credit programme provides essential knowledge and skills in basic health care principles, social care awareness, and patient support.

Throughout this course, students will explore key areas including Health Care Basics, Social Care Principles, Patient Communication, Care Support Skills, Safety and Wellbeing, and Professional Ethics. The curriculum is structured to develop both theoretical understanding and practical care skills, ensuring graduates are well-prepared for entry-level care positions or further study.

Learners will develop essential skills in patient care, communication, safety procedures, and ethical practices. The programme emphasises the application of health and social care concepts in real care environments, preparing students to handle fundamental care challenges across various settings.

Upon completion, graduates will possess the foundational health and social care knowledge, practical care skills, and professional awareness required for entry-level roles, progression to Level 4 qualifications, or further academic development in health and social care disciplines.

Career opportunities

As a graduate of the OTHM Level 3 Foundation Diploma in Health and Social Care, you'll have excellent career opportunities in health and social care sectors. The fundamental care skills and health knowledge gained will make you a valuable candidate for entry-level positions, including:

Care Assistant

Provide basic care and support to patients

Support Worker

Support individuals with daily living activities

Healthcare Assistant

Assist healthcare professionals with patient care

Community Support Worker

Provide support in community settings

Residential Care Worker

Support residents in care homes

Personal Care Assistant

Assist with personal care and hygiene

Childcare Assistant

Support children in educational settings

What will you learn

  • Health Care Basics: Learn fundamental health care principles and practices.
  • Social Care Principles: Understand social care systems and support services.
  • Patient Communication: Develop effective communication skills for care settings.
  • Care Support Skills: Master basic patient care and support techniques.
  • Safety and Wellbeing: Learn safety procedures and wellbeing practices.
  • Professional Ethics: Understand ethical standards in health and social care.
  • Personal Care: Develop skills in personal care and hygiene assistance.

Key Facts

Awarding Body OTHM
Qualification Level Level 3
Total Credits 60 Credits
Total Qualification Time 600 Hours
Guided Learning Hours 240 Hours
Study Mode 100% Online — Assignment Based
Duration 6 Months (Fast-track) / 9 Months (Standard)

Fee and Payment Plans

30 to 40% Cheaper than most Universities and Colleges

Duration & course fee

The programme is available in two duration modes:

18 Months (Accelerated mode / Fast-track):GBP £8700

24 Months (Standard mode): GBP £7700

This programme does not have any additional costs.

The fee is payable in monthly or quarterly instalments.

You can avail 5% discount if you pay the full fee upfront in 1 instalment


Payment plans

24 Months - GBP £7700
Stage 1 Fee GBP £2800
  • Payment option (a) - GBP £280 x 10 monthly instalments
  • Payment option (b) - GBP £933 x 3 quarterly instalments
  • Payment option (c) - GBP £1400 x 2 half yearly instalments
  • Payment option (d) - GBP £2660 x 1 instalment (We offer 5% bursary on total fee for students opting to pay in full)

Stage Fee GBP £4900 is payable directly to the university

18 Months - GBP £8700
Stage 1 Fee GBP £3800
  • Payment option (a) - GBP £633 x 6 monthly instalments
  • Payment option (b) - GBP £1900 x 2 quarterly instalments
  • Payment option (c) - GBP £3610 x 1 instalment (We offer 5% bursary on total fee for students opting to pay in full)

Stage 2 Fee GBP £4900 is payable directly to the university

Entry Requirements

Educational Background

Open Entry: This program is open to all applicants, regardless of previous qualifications. Whether you're starting fresh or seeking to build on existing knowledge, everyone is encouraged to apply. Higher qualifications and relevant experience are also welcomed but not required.

Age Requirement

Applicants must be 16 years or older. This program is designed to support both recent school leavers and those beginning their professional journey.

International applicants and their qualifications are accepted.

Step into a transformative journey at HealthSocial.Care, where you'll become part of a vibrant community of students from over 157 nationalities.

At HealthSocial.Care, we are a global family. When you join us, your qualifications are recognised and accepted, making you a valued member of our diverse, internationally connected community.

Modules

Mandatory Units

6 Units

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