Course overview
Gain a practical Level 5 qualification with a route to a full degree.
Develop leadership, management and critical-thinking skills for health and social care through practical, employer-informed learning.
Course overview
This two-year Level 5 foundation degree prepares students for early management responsibility in health and social care. Employer-informed modules cover collaborative culture, innovation, sustainability, compassionate leadership, evidence-based multidisciplinary practice and financial and digital health development.
Blended delivery
Full-time blended learning combines eight hours of in-person teaching on one campus day each week with around 25 hours of independent study through Arden's iLearn environment. Daytime delivery is listed for London Stratford, London Holborn, Manchester, Birmingham and Leeds.
Progression
Successful completion of the FdSc can support progression to the final Level 6 year of a related honours degree, subject to Arden University's progression requirements.
Curriculum
Study the complete 240-credit Foundation Degree structure.
04Level 4
Level 4 · 120 credits
120 credits
Level 4
Level 4 · 120 credits
- Collaborative Cultures in Health and Social Care30 credits
- Entrepreneurship and Health Innovation30 credits
- Learning for Life: Skills for Study and Work (Health and Care)30 credits
- Sustainable Business Practice in Health and Care30 credits
05Level 5
Level 5 · 120 credits
120 credits
Level 5
Level 5 · 120 credits
- Concepts of Compassionate Leadership30 credits
- Evidence-based Practice in Multidisciplinary Working30 credits
- Financial and Digital Health Development30 credits
- Workplace Impact Project - Applied Work-Based Learning for Health and Social Care30 credits
Module availability and content may change as part of the provider’s ongoing academic review.
Assessment
Practical ways to show what you know.
The course uses practical assessment rather than examinations. Tasks are linked to real-world scenarios and industry-relevant practice, including an applied Workplace Impact Project.
Entry requirements
Your route onto the course.
Standard entry
- At least 60 credits from a Level 2 or Level 3 qualification, including at least 15 credits at Level 3.
- A current professional CV.
Non-standard entry
- Two years of relevant work experience or appropriate professional certification; some relevant experience must have been completed within the last 12 months.
- Applications are considered case by case.
English language
- IELTS 6.0 overall with no component below 5.5, or an accepted equivalent.
- Previous study in English may also be accepted.
Fees & funding
Understand the full cost.
Arden states that the fee quoted relates to the intake on which the student enrols, rather than the application date. Fees may be reviewed before a later intake.
Funding your study
Students from England enrolling on eligible UK blended-learning provision may be able to apply for a Tuition Fee Loan and Maintenance Loan. Eligibility depends on personal circumstances, residency and the course.
What you’ll achieve
Skills for ideas that move forward.
Lead and collaborate across health and social care settings.
Apply evidence, finance and digital development to care management.
Complete an applied workplace project and prepare for Level 6 study.
Career opportunities
Where this course can take you.
Career outcomes depend on your experience, further training and the requirements of each role.
Career and progression directions
- Early health and social care management roles
- Registered Manager pathway
- Service coordination
- Health and care leadership
- Progression to the final year of a related BSc degree
Frequently asked questions
Course questions.
Is this a foundation year?
No. This is a standalone two-year Foundation Degree worth 240 credits and equivalent to Levels 4 and 5. It may be topped up to a related honours degree later.
How is the course delivered?
The course is full-time blended learning, combining scheduled campus teaching with online resources and independent study.
When can I start?
The current application options list September 2026 and November 2026. Exact campus and attendance availability should be confirmed for the selected intake.
Who awards the qualification?
The qualification is awarded by Arden University.