Health and Social Care BA/BSc
Study of how health, wellbeing, and social support systems function, and how professionals work to improve the lives of individuals, families, and communities.
Is this for you?
This degree could suit you if you:
Want to help people
Are interested in health and wellbeing
Enjoy working with communities
Want a care-focused career
Are empathetic
Popular Career Fields
Healthcare & Public Health
Government & Public Sector
Charity & NGO Sector
Education
Your Personality Might Be:
Compassionate
Government & Public Sector
Good communicator
Emotionally resilient
What is it?
What is a Health and Social Care degree?
Health and Social Care explores how health services, social support systems, and community organisations work together to promote wellbeing, protect vulnerable people, and reduce inequalities. It draws on psychology, sociology, public health, social policy, ethics, and professional practice.
You will study how health and care needs develop across the lifespan, how services are structured, and how social, economic, and environmental factors influence wellbeing. The subject also examines safeguarding, disability, ageing, mental health, and the challenges faced by those who rely on support services.
This degree offers strong preparation for roles in health, social care, community work, and care coordination, and is ideal for students who want to make a positive difference in people’s lives.
Why Study Health and Social Care degree?
Health and social care professionals are vital to society, supporting people through illness, disability, ageing, crisis, and social disadvantage. If you enjoy supporting others, solving problems, and understanding how services can be improved, this degree is a meaningful and rewarding choice.
The degree builds practical skills and knowledge that can be used across healthcare, charities, education, local authorities, and social care organisations.
Course Summary
Study of how health, wellbeing, and social support systems function, and how professionals work to improve the lives of individuals, families, and communities.
What you'll study
Health & Social Care courses might include these modules:
Human growth and development
Public health and health promotion
Social policy and welfare systems
Mental health and wellbeing
Safeguarding and protection of vulnerable adults/children
Disability, ageing, and life-course challenges
Professional communication and care skills
Health inequalities and social justice
Leadership and teamwork in care settings
Ethical and legal issues in health and social care
Research methods and evidence-based practice
Optional modules could include:
Youth work and early intervention
Counselling skills
Addiction and substance use
Global health and humanitarian care
Community development and outreach
Family support and education
Trauma-informed practice
Skills You'll Gain
A Health and Social Care degree builds strong interpersonal and professional skills, including:
Pathways, Placements and Work Experience
CAREERS
Career Pathways
Graduates work across:
Health and social care coordination
Community support and outreach
Youth work and family support
Mental health services
Public health and wellbeing roles
Charities, non-profits, and advocacy groups
Education and pastoral support
Housing and homelessness support
Safeguarding teams
Rehabilitation and offender support
Work Experiences & Placements
Degrees often offer opportunities with:
NHS trusts and local health services
Social care providers
Charities and voluntary organisations
Youth, family, or community centres
Mental health services
Disability and learning support organisations
Housing and homelessness services
These placements help build confidence, professional skills, and employability.
Salary Profile
Coming soon
Qualifications, Personal Satement, What to do Next?
AM I ELIGIBLE?
Entry Requirements
A-levels or equivalent. Most universities accept a broad range of subjects. Psychology, Sociology, Biology, Health & Social Care, or English are beneficial.
Personal Statement Tips
Show passion for helping people, community support, or social justice.
Mention real-life experience such as caring roles, volunteering, youth work, or placements.
Reflect on challenges in health or social care that inspire you.
Highlight communication, empathy, resilience, and problem-solving skills.
What to do Next
Compare courses to find the right balance between health and social care content.
Attend open days or explore virtual talks.
Gain experience through volunteering with community organisations or charities.
Read about current health policy and wellbeing initiatives.
Wider Reading
The Spirit Level – Wilkinson & Pickett: How inequality shapes health and wellbeing.
Being Mortal – Atul Gawande: A compassionate exploration of ageing and care.
This Is Going to Hurt – Adam Kay: Insights into healthcare challenges and patient care.
The Boy Who Was Raised as a Dog – Bruce D. Perry: Understanding trauma and healing.