FD in Healthcare Studies

Course overview

New to Bishop Auckland College, this exciting innovative foundation degree enables students to gain an academic qualification which is validated by The Open University.

You can find the programme specification for this course here and the programme handbook here.

Our Foundation Degree in Healthcare Studies covers numerous aspects of healthcare practice. One of the main distinctive features of the programme is the incorporation of a large range of disciplines which have been carefully considered to provide you with a comprehensive understanding of three distinct areas of healthcare aimed at improving individual employment opportunities.

The first area of focus is on the development of clinical/practical and scientific skills related to healthcare. The second area of focus is the study of the social/ cultural and political aspects which can impact and effect individual health. The third, and final area of focus is on individual professional development, understanding the benefits of being a reflective practitioner and implementing leadership and management skills in healthcare practice.

This degree develops your critical understanding of healthcare, from a scientific, practical, theoretical and social aspect. You'll learn how to think critically about how society provides healthcare provisions and how effective these are.

This course will put you at the forefront of the critical social debates defining the 21st century, from dealing with national health crises, the social inequalities of health, and the current health needs of our communities.

You’ll receive a strong grounding in theory and research methods, along with programme enhancements like regular expert guest lectures. This degree helps to develop your critical thinking skills which enhances your employability, opening up a wide variety of career options.

This programme is taught on a face-to-face basis over two years on the full time route. There is no annual price increase and no additional costs will be incurred where possible. A copy of our Fee Policy is available upon request.

Course requirements

A genuine interest in the subject is essential - and an interview will take place.

A minimum of 80 UCAS Points from the following:

• A-Levels

• Level 3 Extended Diploma

• Level 3 Diploma

• A combination of Level 3 Certificates

• Access to HE with 80 UCAS points as a minimum.

• International qualifications equating to 80 UCAS points will be considered.

GCSE Maths and English at Grade 4/C or above; or Level 2 Functional Skills qualifications in English/Literacy and Maths/Numeracy.

Life and employment experience will also be considered when reviewing applications from mature students. Each individual applicant will be considered.

If you are unsure as to whether your previous qualifications would qualify you for entry onto our degree programme, please email start@bacoll.ac.uk and we will let you know if you are eligible.

What will I do?

Level 4 modules include:

Human Biology

Inequalities in health

Working in Healthcare

Principles in Public Health

Clinical Skills in Healthcare

Brain, Mind and Mental Health

Level 5 Modules include:

Human Biology 2

Health Needs in the Community

Evidence -based Approaches in Healthcare

Professional Development

Psychological Aspects of Health

Applied Clinical Skills in Healthcare

What will it give me?

Foundation Degree in Healthcare Studies.

Materials needed

You will need all basic stationery items for studying. Students will also be made aware of any key texts / books which may be advisable to purchase for the programme. If this is the case, you will be notified of these during induction. A laptop computer would be advantageous however this is not essential as the College has dedicated IT facilities for degree students and adults.

What can I do when I finish?

Following successful completion of the FD Healthcare Studies, students can apply for the BSc (Hons) Top up in Healthcare Studies to achieve the full degree.

What next?

If you would like to apply for this exciting degree programme, then please apply via our website if you already attend Bishop Auckland College. You can also attend our next Higher Education Open Night – please check our website homepage for details of this.