Health and Social Care

Health and social care as a field encompasses the full range of organised services that support the wellbeing of individuals and communities, from acute healthcare and primary care through to social work, care homes, mental health services, and the voluntary sector. Understanding how these services are designed, funded, and delivered, and how they can be made more effective and equitable, requires both a grounding in the sciences of health and an understanding of the social, political, and organisational contexts in which care is provided.

At University College Birmingham, this three-year, full-time programme provides a broad and applied introduction to the health and social care field. UCB has a long tradition of vocational education and strong connections to employers in the West Midlands health and care sector, and the programme is designed with direct career progression in mind. You will study the biological and psychological determinants of health and illness, public health and health promotion, social policy and welfare, safeguarding and ethics in care, the organisation of the NHS and social care system, and the skills of communication and teamwork that care environments demand.

The programme engages with contemporary challenges in health and care, including the management of long-term conditions, mental health, the care of older people, and the integration of health and social care services. A typical entry tariff of 104 UCAS points reflects the accessible entry route the programme offers.

Health and social care develops a practical understanding of care contexts alongside analytical skills for evaluating policies and services.

Graduates enter roles in health and social care management, social care, public health, community health promotion, and the voluntary sector. Many progress to postgraduate study in social work, nursing, public health, or health management. The degree also provides a foundation for professional training in a range of health and care professions.