About

Support. Care. Empower.

The course is designed to provide you with an introduction to health, education and social care knowledge and skills, including IT and academic research. You will be taught by a range of experienced academics and be supported at every step of your course to ensure an enjoyable experience that will enhance your learning and future employment prospects.

Academic knowledge and intellectual curiosity are promoted throughout the foundation year, assisting you to achieve your true potential. The progression towards critical thinking begins in this course and will be further developed as you progress onto undergraduate study. The enquiry-based learning approach will empower you to become an active and independent learner with the ability to effectively communicate with a wide range of audiences through a manner of platforms.

Our teaching team bring both knowledge and experience in practice and academia. The emphasis and support of a research rich learning environment will equip you with the confidence and skills needed for future study.

Why choose Northumbria to study Health, Education and Social Care?

98% of our Nursing graduates are in highly skilled employment or further study 15 months after graduation (Guardian University Guide, 2025).

Education at Northumbria is ranked Top 20 in the UK by the Complete University Guide for 2025.

What are the courses I can take after completing this foundation year?

Northumbria University has a well-established suite of Health, Education and Social Care related degree programmes. Upon completion of the Foundation Year, you will be able to apply to progress on to the following courses after a successful interview (for professional programmes) and satisfactory occupational health and DBS clearances:

Requirements

Entry Requirements

Entry Requirements 2025/26

Standard Entry

80 UCAS Tariff points

From a combination of acceptable Level 3 qualifications which may include: A-level, T Level, BTEC Diplomas/Extended Diplomas, Scottish and Irish Highers, Access to HE Diplomas, or the International Baccalaureate.

Find out how many points your qualifications are worth by using the UCAS Tariff calculator: www.ucas.com/ucas/tariff-calculator

Northumbria University is committed to supporting all individuals to achieve their ambitions. We have a range of schemes and alternative offers to make sure as many individuals as possible are given an opportunity to study at our University regardless of personal circumstances or background. To find out more, review our Northumbria Entry Requirement Essential Information page for further details www.northumbria.ac.uk/entryrequirementsinfo

Subject Requirements:

There are no specific subject requirements for this course.

GCSE Requirements:

Applicants will need Maths and English Language at minimum grade 4/C, or an equivalent.

Additional Requirements:

There are no additional requirements for this course.

International Qualifications:

We welcome applicants with a range of qualifications which may not match those shown above.

If you have qualifications from outside the UK, find out what you need by visiting www.northumbria.ac.uk/yourcountry

English Language Requirements:

International applicants should have a minimum overall IELTS (Academic) score of 7.0 with 7.0 in each component (or an approved equivalent*).

*The university accepts a large number of UK and International Qualifications in place of IELTS. You can find details of acceptable tests and the required grades in our English Language section: www.northumbria.ac.uk/englishqualifications

English Program Requirements

International applicants should have a minimum overall IELTS (Academic) score of 7.0 with 7.0 in each component (or an approved equivalent*).

*The university accepts a large number of UK and International Qualifications in place of IELTS. You can find details of acceptable tests and the required grades in our English Language section: www.northumbria.ac.uk/englishqualifications

Career

How does this course prepare me for my future career?

Throughout the Health, Education and Social Care Foundation Year, we emphasise the development of your professionalism, resilience, communication and decision-making skills which will have value in every workplace. We will give you feedback and specifically assess your ability to craft and present a persuasive argument to others, which gives you confidence and competence.

Northumbria University’s Careers and Employment Service will also support you with CV advice, interview preparation and portfolio development. 

Throughout the Foundation Year, you will develop attributes including reflection and insight. The course prepares you to think and act independently. Independent learning will prepare you for future learning and your career. 

As the nature of health, education and social care continues to evolve, your transferable skills will help you thrive. The Health, Education and Social Care Foundation Year is designed to support your progression and application to undergraduate degree programmes. Your Personal Tutor will be happy to guide you in the process of applying. A degree qualification is widely seen as an essential first step to more advanced clinical, research, educational and management roles within your future career pathway.

Health, Education and Social Care Foundation Year

About

Support. Care. Empower.

Why choose Northumbria to study Health, Education and Social Care?

Requirements

Entry Requirements

Entry Requirements 2025/26

Standard Entry

English Program Requirements

Career

How does this course prepare me for my future career?

Fee Information