Overview
The OTHM Level 3 Foundation Diploma in Health and Social Care is designed to develop the underpinning knowledge, understanding and skills needed for further study or professional development within the health and social care sector. The qualification is regulated at RQF Level 3 and carries 60 credit hours.
This Level 3 health and social care course explores professional responsibilities, personal development, ethical communication, health and safety, person-centred approaches and the effective handling of information. These areas provide a broad foundation for people preparing to work in care environments or progress to higher-level study.
Studying Level 3 in health and social care can also help you develop the academic and professional skills needed to progress into further Health and Social Care qualifications. OTHM states that its Level 3 qualifications represent knowledge and skills assessed academically at a level comparable with GCE AS/A Levels.
Benefits of Doing a Level 3 Foundation Diploma in Health and Social Care Course Online
Studying Level 3 health and social care online gives you the flexibility to develop your knowledge around existing work and personal commitments, because it is flexible and easy to fit into your life. The Level 3 Foundation Diploma in Health and Social Care course has many benefits. These include:
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Flexible Learning
- You can study when you want and at your pace, which is great if you have a job, family or other things you need to take care of.
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Cost-Effective
- you do not have to travel or pay for a place to stay so it is cheaper.
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Access to Quality Resources
- you get to use digital learning materials watch recorded lessons look at case studies and get help from a tutor through an online learning portal.
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Career Advancement Opportunities
- This level 3 qualification develops knowledge relevant to health and social care practice and can support progression into or within employment, as well as further study. Career requirements vary by role and employer, so the Diploma should be considered as part of your wider professional development.
Course Delivery
The Level 3 Foundation Diploma in Health and Social Care course is delivered online through:
- Virtual Learning Platform: you can access study materials and resources at any time.
- Tutor Support: you get help from a tutor by email or through online forums.
- Independent Study: you study on your own with some guidance.
- You get your assignments marked and feedback on them.
- Online Assessments: you do assignments, projects and portfolios online.
- You get a plan for your studies and notes to help you.
- You get help from customer support by chat, phone or email from Monday to Friday.
Units you'll study
6 units · 60 credits · All units mandatory
1 Responsibilities of a Health and Social Care worker
Learning outcomes
- Understand working relationships in health and social care settings.
- Understand the importance of adhering to the agreed scope of the job role.
2 Personal and Professional Development in Health and Social Care
Learning outcomes
- Understand what is required for competence in own work role.
- Be able to reflect on practice.
3 Effective Communication and Ethical Practice in Health and Social Care
Learning outcomes
- Understand why effective communication is important in health and social care work settings.
- Be able to meet the communication wishes and preferences of individuals.
4 Health, Safety and Wellbeing in Health and Social Care Settings
Learning outcomes
- Understand responsibilities relating to health and safety in health and social care.
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Understand how to minimise the spread of infection
5 Person-centred Approaches in Health and Social Care Settings
Learning outcomes
- Understand person-centred approaches utilised in health and social care.
- Understand ways of working in a person-centred way.
6 Effective Handling of Information in Health and Social Care Settings
Learning outcomes
- Understand handling of information practice requirements in health and social care settings.
- Understand good practice in handling of information.
Tap a unit to see what you'll learn.
Entry requirements
- To study an Level 3 Diploma in Health and Social Care learner must be aged of 16 and above.
Not sure you qualify? . It's free.
Study & assessment
- 24/7 access to the online learning portal
- Tutor support: academic questions answered within 48 hours
- Assignments marked with feedback in 5 to 7 working days
- No exams: you are assessed through written assignments
- Learner support team, Mon–Fri, 09:00–17:30 (UK time)
How you're assessed
- Assessment is via assignment submission only.
- No Exams
Average completion timeframe (Course Duration)
- The average time it takes our learners to complete the course is 3-6 months.
- Learners are granted a maximum of two years’ access to complete the course from the date of enrolment.
Qualification
- Course level
- Level 3
- Same level as A levels
- Awarding body
- OTHM Qualifications
- Regulated by Ofqual (603/6776/3)
- Credits
- 60
- on the RQF
OTHM Qualifications is an awarding organisation recognised by Ofqual, the regulator of qualifications in England. This course leads to the OTHM Level 3 Foundation Diploma in Health and Social Care (Ofqual qualification number 603/6776/3), at Level 3 on the Regulated Qualifications Framework (RQF). It carries 60 credits and 600 hours of total qualification time. Your certificate is issued by OTHM when you complete the qualification.
Careers & progression
The Level 3 Foundation Diploma in Health and Social Care can help you get a job. If you complete the Level 3 Foundation Diploma in Health and Social Care you can do things:
1. Higher Education
you can go on to study for qualifications like
- Foundation degrees in Health and Social Care
- Bachelor’s degrees in things like Nursing, Social Work, Public Health or Psychology
- Higher-level diplomas and professional qualifications
- You can even do academic study and research.
2. Employment Opportunities
you can get a job in a health and social care organisation, like
- Care Assistant
- Support Worker
- Healthcare Assistant
- Residential Care Worker
- Community Support Worker
You can get an entry-level job in a health and social care organisation, which's a great way to start your career in the health and social care sector with the Level 3 Foundation Diploma, in Health and Social Care.
Fees & payment plans
Questions about this course
What is the OTHM Level 3 Foundation Diploma in Health and Social Care?
It is an RQF Level 3 qualification designed to develop foundational knowledge and skills for Health and Social Care practice and further study. The qualification carries 60 credits and includes six mandatory units.
Can I study Level 3 Health and Social Care online?
Yes. Inspire College of Learning delivers the programme online, while OTHM permits approved centres to use flexible and distance-learning delivery methods.
Is Health and Social Care Level 3 equivalent to A Levels?
OTHM states that its RQF Level 3 qualifications represent knowledge and skills assessed academically at a level comparable with GCE AS/A Levels. The Diploma itself remains a separate vocational qualification.
What Is a Level 3 Health and Social Care Qualification Equivalent To?
The OTHM Level 3 Foundation Diploma in Health and Social Care is positioned at RQF Level 3. OTHM states that Level 3 qualifications represent practical knowledge, skills and competencies assessed academically at a level comparable with GCE AS/A Levels.
What is the difference between a Level 3 Diploma and a Level 3 Foundation Diploma in Health and Social Care?
Different Level 3 qualifications may sit at the same RQF level while having different credit values, content and purposes. This programme is specifically the OTHM Level 3 Foundation Diploma in Health and Social Care, carrying 60 credits and six mandatory units.
How is the Level 3 Health and Social Care qualification assessed?
Assessment is through coursework. Units are internally assessed by the approved centre and externally verified by OTHM, with all required learning outcomes and assessment criteria needing to be achieved for a Pass.
