Level 3 National Diploma in Health and Social Care

Studying a Level 3 National Diploma in Health and Social Care can offer a range of benefits for anyone looking to build a career in the healthcare or social care sectors

Course Code: P10469
Campus: Downpatrick, Lisburn, Newtownards
Study Type: Full-Time
Education Level Further Education
Department: Health & Care

Available Sessions

We have 3 sessions available for application on this course in Lisburn, Newtownards, Downpatrick.

Why Study This Course

This course offers the following:

  • In-depth knowledge and skills - the Level 3 National Diploma provides comprehensive training in various aspects of health and social care, covering topics such as human development, working in the health sector, meeting individual care and support needs, physiological disorders and their care, current research, work experience in health and social care, principles of safe practice, promoting public health, safeguarding, health and safety, and communication skills. This gives students a well-rounded understanding of the sector and prepares them for a range of roles
  • Career opportunities - with a level 3 qualification, students become eligible for more advanced roles within health and social care, such as care supervisor, healthcare assistant, or support worker. It opens a wide range of career pathways, whether in hospitals, care homes, social services, or even working with children or vulnerable adults
  • Pathway to higher education - for those wanting to further their studies, the Level 3 National Diploma can act as a stepping stone to Level 4. The qualification is recognised by universities and can support applications for higher education
  • Practical work experience - the course includes practical placements, minimum 100hrs allowing students to gain hands-on experience in real-world settings. This is invaluable in developing the skills and confidence needed to work in care environments
  • Developing personal attributes -  a Level 3 qualification helps students develop key personal attributes such as empathy, resilience, communication, and problem-solving skills. These are essential in providing quality care and support to individuals in various settings
  • Making a difference - many people are drawn to health and social care because they want to make a positive impact on people's lives. The Level 3 National Diploma equips students with the knowledge and understanding to provide excellent care and support to those who need it most, whether in healthcare, social care, or community roles
  • Job security - with an increasing demand for healthcare professionals, the health and social care sector offers good job security. Having a Level 3 qualification can make you more competitive in the job market and improve your chances of securing a rewarding role in the field
Course Overview

This is a 2 year course and you will undertake the National Extended Certificate in Year 1 and then year 2 the following year if successful.

There will be 8 Units in total, some of which will have external exams and some will be course work.

6 Mandatory Units and 2 Optional Units. Subjects studied will include:  

- Human life span development

- Working in Health and Social Care

- meeting individual care and support needs 

Work placement in either a care or health setting along with a project are integral parts of the course.

To be eligible for this course, students must meet the following entry requirements:

  • 4 GCSEs at grade C or above, including at least a grade C in English or Maths (preferably English).
  • If progressing from a Level 2 Diploma, students must have achieved an overall Merit or Distinction grade.
  • Students are required to complete an Access NI check (a criminal background check in Northern Ireland).

Additionally, students must:

  • Provide evidence of securing a suitable placement that meets the course’s entry requirements before starting.
  • Successfully pass the interview process as part of the admissions procedure.

These requirements ensure that students are well-prepared for the course and can meet the standards expected in the health and social care field.

Mandatory Units:

  • 6 Mandatory Units and 2 Optional Units to complete over 2 years
  • Human Lifespan Development (external exam)
  • Working in Health and Social Care (external exam)
  • Enquiries into Current Research in Health and Social Care (external exam)
  • Meeting Individual Care and Support needs (internal coursework)
  • Promoting Public Health (internal coursework)
  • Principles of Safe Practice (internal coursework)

Successful completion of this course will enable you to apply for a variety of roles within the Health and Social Care sector. Alternatively, it will provide a pathway to further education, such as a Higher National Certificate (HNC) or university courses in related fields, allowing you to continue your studies at a higher level.

Available Sessions

We have 3 sessions available for application on this course in Lisburn, Newtownards, Downpatrick.

Enquiries Information

For more information or help with this course send us an enquiry and a member of our team will get back in touch.

Available Sessions

Title Campus Start Spaces Apply or get more information
Level 3 National Diploma in Health and Social Care
Y10469DF1A-25/26-FT
Downpatrick
01/09/2025
 16
More Info
Level 3 National Diploma in Health and Social Care
Y10469LF1A-25/26-FT
Lisburn
01/09/2025
 16
More Info
Level 3 National Diploma in Health and Social Care
Y10469NF1A-25/26-FT
Newtownards
01/09/2025
 16
More Info

Please select a campus from the list above to view the available sessions.

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Terms & Conditions

Students will be required to comply with SERC's Terms & Conditions of study.

We strive to ensure the description of courses on SERC's website and in publications is accurate. However, for various reasons there may be occasions when the College may need to change arrangements or be unable to deliver classes due to circumstances such as reduced funding. If there are insufficient numbers applying for a course it may not be viable to deliver the class.

Courses are continually reviewed to take advantage of new teaching approaches and developments in research, industry and the professions. Please be aware that modules may change for your year of entry. The exact modules available and their order may vary depending on course updates, staff availability, timetabling and student demand. Please contact the course team for the most up to date module list.

Further Education

Further Education

If you have just completed your GCSEs, Further Education is most likely the option for you. FE covers qualifications from entry to higher level qualifications such as Awards, Certificates, Diplomas, NVQ, BTEC and Apprenticeships.

Explore Further Education