Health and Social Care Practice

Our BA (Hons) Health and Social Care Practice adopts a global perspective of current and emerging health and social care issues and approaches. You will explore challenges around inequalities, exploitation and oppression, evaluating current approaches and developing alternative, sustainable responses to identified needs. The programme has a strong emphasis on wellbeing and new technologies and approaches, taking a holistic and cross-cultural view underpinned by research.

You will have the opportunity to undertake 100 hours work-related experience. This can be anything from a traditional placement with a Health and Social Care provider, to a project to develop good practice in Health and Social Care.

BA (Hons) Health and Social Care Practice is accredited by the Chartered Management Institute (CMI) who work with business and education providers like ourselves to inspire people to become skilled, confident and successful managers and leaders.

Throughout the course, you will be able to think about innovative ideas, social justice and the value of technology to support sustainable solutions. At the next stage, the course provides a focus on how policy, practice and research have attempted to address the diverse needs in Health and Social Care. The work-related learning module will provide an opportunity for you to develop skills and knowledge that employers will be seeking when you graduate. The final year, you will focus on being a leader, undertaking research or a project as well as making choices about areas that interest you. You will be able to choose from the areas of children and young people; mental health and addiction; end of life care; and working with older people. In addition, on successful completion of the Leadership module, you can apply for a CMI level 5 Principles of Leadership Practice award.

Why choose the University of Northampton?

At the University of Northampton, you’ll benefit from a supportive, career-focused experience designed to help you succeed.

Personalised learning

Study in small groups led by expert academics, with dedicated one-to-one support. Our close-knit community ensures you receive individual guidance while being challenged to achieve your best.

Built for your future

Whatever your goals, we’ll help you get there. You’ll develop valuable skills, discover your strengths, and gain real-world experience - so you’re ready to stand out when applying for jobs or further study.

Guaranteed accommodation

We guarantee a room in our Halls of Residence for all new full-time first-year students who apply and accept their offer by June 2027*.

Exceptional student benefits

You’ll receive a brand-new laptop at no additional cost**, and all essential textbooks are available through our library - helping you save money throughout your studies.

A modern campus experience

Study at our student-led purpose-built Waterside Campus, designed to provide an inspiring and dynamic environment for learning and student life. Visit us at an Open Day to see it for yourself.

The Northampton Employment Promise

We’re confident you’ll graduate ready to launch your career. If you’re not in employment within six months, you’ll receive dedicated support from a Careers Development Consultant. If you’re still seeking opportunities after that, we’ll offer you a paid internship.

✱ Eligibility criteria apply. See northampton.ac.uk/student-life/accommodation/ for more information
✱✱ Eligibility criteria and terms and conditions apply. See northampton.ac.uk/benefits for more information

Course Modules

STAGE 1:
• Academic and Professional Skills (compulsory)
• Approaches to Mental Health and Wellbeing (compulsory)
• Contemporary Issues in Health and Social Care (compulsory)
• Global Inequality in Health and Social Care (compulsory)
• Identity and Reflective Practice (compulsory)
• Working with Others (compulsory)

STAGE 2:
• Working with Diverse Communities (compulsory)
• Global Health and Social Policy (compulsory)
• Therapeutic Approaches to Communication (compulsory)
• Work-Related Learning in Health and Social Care (compulsory)

STAGE 3:
• Dissertation/Needs Assessment Plan (compulsory)
• Leading the way in Health and Social Care Practice (compulsory)
• Advocating for and with Children and Young People (compulsory)
• Working with an Ageing Population (compulsory)
• Sustainable Solutions for Working in Health and Social Care (compulsory)

*Students must take all compulsory modules. Students who do not complete the Honours Degree will be eligible for an Ordinary Degree in the named subject upon successful completion of a minimum of 60 Level 6 credits. These can be from any Level 6 modules, whether identified as compulsory or designated.
**Module information is quoted for 2025/26 entry. Please note that modules run subject to student numbers and staff availability, any changes will be communicated to applicants accordingly.

You will be assessed through coursework, essays, reports, critical reviews, portfolios, online tests, oral presentations, individual and group work.