Pearson BTEC HNC in Healthcare Practice

The general entry requirements below identify the minimum qualifications needed to apply for the programme. Other qualifications will be considered on an individual basis on application. You are required to upload a copy of your qualification certificates to show how you meet the entry requirements for the programme prior to enrolment. Applications will also require successful completion of the admissions process.

GCSE / Level 2 Requirements

• GCSE grade C/4 in English Language, or Level 2 Certificate in Essential Skills Communication, or equivalent in an approved alternative qualification

AND 

• GCSE grade C/4 in Mathematics, or Level 2 Certificate in Essential Skills Application of Number, or equivalent in an approved alternative qualification

AND

• Passes in 4 different subjects (can include English Language and Mathematics as above), with 1 at GCE Advanced (A) level (grades A-E), and 3 at GCSE level (grades A*-C*/9-4), or equivalent in an approved alternative qualification.

UCAS: 

A minimum of 64 UCAS points including:

• Two A Levels at A2 OR 
• Level 3 Diploma / Extended Diploma OR
• Level 3 CACHE Extended Diploma  

Access Diploma:

• Access Diploma in Foundation Studies with an overall average of 58%+

International Students English Language Requirements

International applicants, from Non-Native English speaking countries, must have evidence of English Language Level B2 on the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages:

• IELTS 6.0 (Academic) (minimum of 5.5 in all skills)
• PTE Academic 51 (minimum of 46 in each part)
• Or equivalent UKVI-approved English Language Test

For further information please contact our International Department at international@serc.ac.uk

Accreditation of Prior Learning

Alternatively, you can provide evidence of your ability to undertake the programme by meeting the requirements for the Accreditation of Prior Learning (APL) process, either through Accredited Prior Certificated Learning (APCL) or Accredited Prior Experiential Learning (APEL). Further details on APL can be found in the HE admissions process section of our website and the HE Accreditation of Prior Learning SOP.

Additional Skills

• Experience of work or placements in the health and social sector are desirable criteria.

Progression routes include further study or employment in the relevant field. This qualification will give you a minimum of 120 credits which you can use to apply to related Degree programmes. Previous SERC Graduates have successfully applied to Degrees in Nursing, Midwifery, Social Work, Occupational Therapy, Psychology, Youth work and Speech & Language Therapy.

In 2023/4, over 85% of HNC students received their 1st choice University offer with the majority progressing to Queen's and Ulster University to study Nursing and Social Work.

The course can lead directly into a career in Health and Social Care, for example previous students have sought employment as auxiliary nurses, community care assistants, and residential support workers. Students can progress to the Level 5 HND (Management Level which is delivered in the Newtownards Campus as a blended learning course). Your tutors will discuss this during the Level 4 programme.

Students must pay for their Access NI clearance, current cost is £32 - please note your own workplace clearance may suffice.

Students will have to pay for production of posters for class presentations. Approximate cost of £30.