ATHE Level 3 Diploma in Health and Social Care
The ATHE Level 3 Diploma in Health and Social Care is a 60-credit qualification with a total qualification time of 600 hours and 360 Guided Learning Hours. The diploma provides essential knowledge for careers in health and social care, ideal for those with 5 GCSEs (grade C/4 or above) or equivalent. This qualification lays a strong foundation for career growth in the sector.
ATHE Level 3 Diploma in Health and Social Care
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360 Hours
Overview Of ATHE Level 3 Diploma in Health and Social Care
The ATHE Level 3 Diploma in Health and Social Care is an Ofqual-regulated qualification, comparable in level and academic demand to an A-Level or an Access to HE Diploma. It is designed for learners who want to gain a strong understanding of the core principles, values, and regulations that guide professional practice within the health and social care sector.
This qualification provides a comprehensive introduction to the key foundations of modern care practice. It supports learners in developing knowledge of human development, relevant legislation, and professional standards, helping to build the ethical and academic grounding required for a career in health and social care. This qualification reflects the 6Cs of care (Care, Compassion, Competence, Communication, Courage, Commitment) that underpin excellent practice in the UK health and social care sector, preparing you not just to work in the field, but to uphold its highest standards.
Suitable for those progressing from Level 2 studies or returning to education, the course offers a clear and structured pathway to develop essential study skills and subject knowledge. It prepares learners for further academic progression or entry-level roles within the sector. As a nationally recognised qualification, it also provides a solid route toward undergraduate study at universities in the UK and abroad.
Special Offer: A discount on course fees is available on request. Please contact our admissions team to see if you are eligible.
The course was audited and updated on: 18th May, 2026
Learning Outcomes of Level 3 Diploma in Health and Social Care
Throughout this diploma, you will develop a blend of academic research abilities and practical sector knowledge. By the end of the course, you will be able to:
- Understand key concepts in health and social care practice.
- Understand the organisational structure of the sector.
- Understand the role of industry regulators.
- Understand core values, ethics, and regulatory requirements in practice.
- Apply communication skills in different care settings.
- Conduct a literature review on health and social care topics.
- Use reflective practice for professional development and career planning.
- Recognise care needs across the human lifespan.
Course Progression, UCAS Points & University Entry
Completing the ATHE Level 3 Diploma in Health and Social Care can open several pathways, though outcomes often depend on your previous experience and the requirements of specific employers or universities.
Potential Progression Routes:
- Further Professional Training: Progress to a higher-level ATHE qualification at Level 4 or 5.
- Higher Education: The ATHE Level 3 Diploma in Health and Social Care is a recognised pathway for those looking to progress to Higher Education. This diploma can support progression to the first year of a degree programme or a Foundation Year in subjects like Nursing, Social Work, or Health Studies.
As an Ofqual-regulated qualification, it is eligible for UCAS points, which are often used by universities to determine entry eligibility.
This Level 3 Diploma is allocated up to 48 UCAS points based on the final grade you achieve:
| Grade | UCAS Points |
|---|---|
| Pass (P) | 16 Points |
| Merit (M) | 32 Points |
| Distinction (D) | 48 Points |
Please Note: While these points are a standard measure, every university has its own unique entry requirements. We recommend checking with your chosen institution to ensure this qualification meets the specific criteria for your desired degree programme.
Guided Learning Hours (GLH) &Total Qualification Time (TQT)
This ATHE Level 3 Health and Social Care Diploma requires 600 hours of Total Qualification Time (TQT), equivalent to 60 credits (where one credit equals 10 hours of learning).
- This time is divided into two categories:
Guided Learning Hours (GLH): 303 Hours
These are the hours where you are under the immediate guidance or supervision of a tutor or training provider. This includes, Structured Learning, Tutor Support, Assessment Guidance and Review sessions following the submission of your internally assessed work.
Independent Study: 297 Hours
These are the estimated hours you will spend learning independently to meet the qualification standards. This includes, Your research, Assignment Preparation, Self-Directed Study etc.
Note: The actual time taken may vary. These figures are estimates based on the average learner; your prior experience and learning style may result in you completing the qualification in more or less time.
Accreditation & Certification
It is important to understand the roles of the organisations involved in your studies:
- The Awarding Body: This qualification is accredited and awarded by ATHE (Awards for Training and Higher Education). ATHE is one of the fastest-growing awarding organisations in the United Kingdom. Their qualifications are recognised internationally. They set the standards, provide the qualification specification, and issue your final certificate.
- One Education: One Education offers this course through flexible online learning, with up to 365 days of access to complete the course at your own pace. We provide the learning materials, tutor support, and the platform you use to study. We are responsible for the delivery and internal assessment of your work, which is then verified by ATHE.
The certificate itself is awarded by ATHE, who owns and quality-assures the qualification.
Method Of Assessment
There are no formal 3-hour exams for this qualification. Instead, you will be assessed through internally assessed assignments for each unit.
Assessment methods may include:
- Written reports and research projects.
- Case study evaluations.
- Portfolios of evidence.
- Presentations or the production of training materials.
Each unit is graded as a Pass, Merit, or Distinction. To achieve a Pass, you must meet all the learning outcomes and assessment criteria for that unit.
Who Is This Course For?
This qualification is ideal for healthcare and social care professionals, or anyone looking to start a career in the field and gain a deeper understanding of best practices. It’s also a great option for individuals currently working in junior care roles who wish to gain a formal qualification to support their professional development.
The Level 3 Diploma in Health and Social Care is accredited for use in England and Northern Ireland.
Entry Requirements
If you’re aged 19 or over the following entry profiles are recommended to ensure you are prepared for Level 3 study:
- 5 or more GCSEs at grades C/4 and above, or a relevant Level 2 qualification.
- A varied profile of achievement, which may include relevant work experience (paid or unpaid).
- You must have a standard of English (Level 2) sufficient to complete research and written assignments. For non-native speakers, an IELTS score of 5.5 or equivalent is recommended.
Frequently Asked Questions
This RQF qualification is academically equivalent to an A-Level or an Access to HE Diploma, providing 60 credits at Level 3.
You can progress to Higher Education or enter professional roles such as a Healthcare Assistant, Support Worker, or Residential Care Worker.
While both are Level 3, this ATHE Diploma focuses on underpinning knowledge and research skills, whereas an NVQ is typically more focused on direct workplace competency.
Yes, this diploma carries up to 48 UCAS points and is a recognised pathway into degree programmes like Nursing, Social Work, or Health Studies.
No, there are no formal exams; the course is 100% assignment-based and can be completed entirely online through a digital portfolio.
Applicants should ideally hold 5 GCSEs (grade C/4 or above) or a Level 2 qualification, though mature learners with relevant experience are also encouraged to apply.
Yes, it leads to a career as a Healthcare Assistant since it gives a solid foundation of knowledge and abilities applicable in healthcare settings.
Course Curriculum
| Induction form | |||
| Induction Form | 00:05:00 | ||
| Registration Entry Form | |||
| Registration Entry Form | 00:05:00 | ||
| Unit 1 - Structure and Overview of the Health and Social Care Sector | |||
| Self Assessment | |||
| SAU_1_K_618_4167_3_50_12 | 00:00:00 | ||
| Learners Manual | |||
| Unit Info | 00:00:00 | ||
| Suggested Resources | 00:00:00 | ||
| LO1 Understand the structure of health and social care provision | 00:00:00 | ||
| LO2 Understand health and social care provision for different ages and stages of life | 00:00:00 | ||
| LO3 Understand the different areas of specialism within health and social care | 00:00:00 | ||
| LO4 Understand issues in health and social care | 00:00:00 | ||
| Indicative Content | 00:00:00 | ||
| Support Materials | |||
| A quick guide to govt healthy eating update | 00:00:00 | ||
| Current issues in the provision of health and social care | 00:00:00 | ||
| Equality and Diversity | 00:00:00 | ||
| Health and Care Structures | 00:00:00 | ||
| Health and social care needs during a lifetime | 00:00:00 | ||
| Health issues in UK | 00:00:00 | ||
| Measuring Health Inequalities | 00:00:00 | ||
| Roles | 00:00:00 | ||
| Services | 00:00:00 | ||
| UK Health Sector | 00:00:00 | ||
| Assignment | |||
| Assignment: Unit 1 – Structure and Overview of the Health and Social Care Sector (K_618_4167) | 00:00:00 | ||
| Unit 2: Principles, Values and Regulation in the Health and Social Care Sector | |||
| Self Assessment | |||
| SAU_2_M_618_4168_3_60_10 | 00:00:00 | ||
| Learners Manual | |||
| Unit Info | 00:00:00 | ||
| Suggested Resources | 00:00:00 | ||
| LO1 Understand current policy on health and social care | 00:00:00 | ||
| LO2 Understand legislation and guidance which impact on the provision and practice of health and social care | 00:00:00 | ||
| LO3 Understand the principles and values that underpin the provision of care | 00:00:00 | ||
| Indicative Content | 00:00:00 | ||
| Support Materials | |||
| Consequences of Health & Safety Non-compliance | 00:00:00 | ||
| Conventions, Legislation and Regulations | 00:00:00 | ||
| Dignity and Human Rights | 00:00:00 | ||
| Health and Social Care Funding | 00:00:00 | ||
| Health and Social Care Sector and Economy | 00:00:00 | ||
| Healthcare Record Keeping Standards and Guidance | 00:00:00 | ||
| Immigration policy for health and social care | 00:00:00 | ||
| Impacts of Policy | 00:00:00 | ||
| Introducing-the-6cs | 00:00:00 | ||
| Policies on Health and Social Care | 00:00:00 | ||
| Principles of Health and Social Care | 00:00:00 | ||
| Promoting the Principles | 00:00:00 | ||
| Staff Regulation | 00:00:00 | ||
| Assignment | |||
| Assignment: Unit 2 – Principles, Values and Regulation in the Health and Social Care Sector (M_618_4168) | 00:00:00 | ||
| Unit 3 - Human Growth and Development | |||
| Self Assessment | |||
| SAU_3_T_618_4169_3_28_5 | 00:00:00 | ||
| Learners Manual | |||
| Unit Info | 00:00:00 | ||
| Suggested Resources | 00:00:00 | ||
| Lo1 Know Stages of Growth and Development Throughout the Human Lifespan | 00:00:00 | ||
| Lo2 Understand Potential Effects of Life Factors and Events on Growth and Development | 00:00:00 | ||
| Lo3 Understand Physical and Psychological Changes of Ageing | 00:00:00 | ||
| Lo4 Understand the Effect of Transitions and Significant Life Events | 00:00:00 | ||
| Indicative Content | 00:00:00 | ||
| Support Materials | |||
| Addressing Transition Phenomena in Healthcare Settings | 00:00:00 | ||
| Changes from Birth to Old Age | 00:00:00 | ||
| Changes That Occur in the Course of an Individual’s Life as a Result of Significant Life Events or Transitions | 00:00:00 | ||
| Factors Effecting Growth and Development | 00:00:00 | ||
| How the Challenges of Aging Can Affect Self-Esteem | 00:00:00 | ||
| Introducing-the-6cs | 00:00:00 | ||
| Illness, Focus, Achievements | 00:00:00 | ||
| Norms and Milestones | 00:00:00 | ||
| Physical and Psychological Changes Linked to Ageing | 00:00:00 | ||
| Potential Effects of Life Factors and Events on the Growth and Development of Individual | 00:00:00 | ||
| Safeguarding | 00:00:00 | ||
| Supporting Core Practice in Health and Social Care | 00:00:00 | ||
| The 6Cs | 00:00:00 | ||
| The Human Life Cycle | 00:00:00 | ||
| Transitions and Significant Life Eevents Across the Life Stages | 00:00:00 | ||
| Transitions Why It’s So Important for Social Workers to Be on Time | 00:00:00 | ||
| Assignment | |||
| Assignment: Unit 3 – Human Growth and Development (T_618_4169) | 00:00:00 | ||
| Unit 4 - Working in Health and Social Care | |||
| Self Assessment | |||
| SAU_4_J_615_2004_3_90_15 | 00:00:00 | ||
| Learners Manual | |||
| Unit Info | 00:00:00 | ||
| Suggested Resources | 00:00:00 | ||
| Lo1 Understand Person Centred Working | 00:00:00 | ||
| Lo2 Understand the Use of Effective Communication in Health and Social Care Provision | 00:00:00 | ||
| Lo3 Know How to Reduce the Spread of Infection | 00:00:00 | ||
| Lo4 Understand Working Relationships in Health and Social Care | 00:00:00 | ||
| Lo5 Understand the Principles of Care Planning | 00:00:00 | ||
| Lo6 understand the Safe Administration of Medication | 00:00:00 | ||
| Indicative Content | 00:00:00 | ||
| Support Materials | |||
| Actions and Support | 00:00:00 | ||
| Administration of Medicines | 00:00:00 | ||
| Adverse Reaction of Drugs | 00:00:00 | ||
| An Introduction to Communication | 00:00:00 | ||
| Advocacy in Social Care | 00:00:00 | ||
| Barriers to Communication | 00:00:00 | ||
| Care Plan | 00:00:00 | ||
| Causes and Spread of Infection | 00:00:00 | ||
| Clinical-Waste-Disposal-Procedure | 00:00:00 | ||
| Communication and Language Needs and Preferences | 00:00:00 | ||
| Confidentiality | 00:00:00 | ||
| Decision Making in Personalised Care | 00:00:00 | ||
| Diseases and Infections | 00:00:00 | ||
| Electronic Storage Systems | 00:00:00 | ||
| Explain Why It Is Important to Have Secure Systems for Recording and Storing Information in a Care Setting | 00:00:00 | ||
| Good Practices for Infection Prevention and Control | 00:00:00 | ||
| Handling Information | 00:00:00 | ||
| Individual Care Planning | 00:00:00 | ||
| Infection Control and Prevention Standard Precautions | 00:00:00 | ||
| Infection Control and Prevention | 00:00:00 | ||
| Infection Prevention and Control Assurance – SOP 4 – Reporting incidents of infection to PHE or the Local Authority | 00:00:00 | ||
| Infection Prevention and Control Assurance – SOP 7 – Decontamination | 00:00:00 | ||
| Infection | 00:00:00 | ||
| Introducing-the-6cs | 00:00:00 | ||
| Key Factors for Infection Occurence | 00:00:00 | ||
| Laws, Regulations, and Infection Prevention | 00:00:00 | ||
| Localised vs Systemic Infections | 00:00:00 | ||
| Maintaining Records | 00:00:00 | ||
| Manage Common Drug Side Effects | 00:00:00 | ||
| Medication Risk Assesmsent Guidance | 00:00:00 | ||
| Manual Storage System | 00:00:00 | ||
| Meantal Health and Capacity | 00:00:00 | ||
| Monitor the Condition of Individuals | 00:00:00 | ||
| Medications | 00:00:00 | ||
| Monitoring of Medication | 00:00:00 | ||
| Necessity of Communication in Health and Social Care | 00:00:00 | ||
| OTC Drugs | 00:00:00 | ||
| Partnership Working in Health and Social Care | 00:00:00 | ||
| Person Centred Approach Stated in the Adult Care Act 2014 | 00:00:00 | ||
| Person Centred Approach | 00:00:00 | ||
| Person-centred Care | 00:00:00 | ||
| Person-Centred Values | 00:00:00 | ||
| Rights Of Medication Administration | 00:00:00 | ||
| Positive Risk Taking | 00:00:00 | ||
| Policies, Procedures, and Legislation | 00:00:00 | ||
| Priciples Related to Specific Situations | 00:00:00 | ||
| Promoting Rights | 00:00:00 | ||
| Reduce the Abuse | 00:00:00 | ||
| Roles | 00:00:00 | ||
| Safe Medication | 00:00:00 | ||
| Safeguarding | 00:00:00 | ||
| Secure Handling of Information in Care Settings | 00:00:00 | ||
| Services | 00:00:00 | ||
| Side Effects of Medicine | 00:00:00 | ||
| Spread of Infection | 00:00:00 | ||
| Storage, Distribution and Disposal | 00:00:00 | ||
| Strategies for Overcoming Communication Barriers | 00:00:00 | ||
| Support and Response | 00:00:00 | ||
| Types of Communication | 00:00:00 | ||
| Understand Person-centred Working | 00:00:00 | ||
| Understand Relationships | 00:00:00 | ||
| Understanding Person Centred Working | 00:00:00 | ||
| What is the Person Centred Approach | 00:00:00 | ||
| Working Relationships in Health and Social Care | 00:00:00 | ||
| Assignment | |||
| Assignment: Unit 4 – Working in Health and Social Care (K_618_4170) | 00:00:00 | ||
| Unit 5 - Research in Health and Social Care | |||
| Self Assessment | |||
| SAU_5_M_618_4171_3_55_10 | 00:00:00 | ||
| Learners Manual | |||
| Unit Info | 00:00:00 | ||
| Suggested Resources | 00:00:00 | ||
| Lo1 Understand the Role of Research and Different Approaches in Health and Social Care Practice | 00:00:00 | ||
| Lo2 Know How to Identify and Justify a Topic for Research Within Services for Health and Social Care | 00:00:00 | ||
| Lo3 Be Able to Complete a Research Project in Health and Social Care | 00:00:00 | ||
| Indicative Content | 00:00:00 | ||
| Support Materials | |||
| Research and Evidence-Based Practice | 00:00:00 | ||
| Complete a Research Project | 00:00:00 | ||
| Identify and Justify a Topic for Research | 00:00:00 | ||
| Research | 00:00:00 | ||
| Assignment | |||
| Assignment: Research in Health and Social Care | 00:00:00 | ||
| Unit 6: Personal and Professional Development in the Health and Social Care Sector | |||
| Self Assessment | |||
| SAU_6_T_618_4172_3_30_8 | 00:00:00 | ||
| Learners Manual | |||
| Unit Info | 00:00:00 | ||
| Suggested Resources | 00:00:00 | ||
| Lo1 Understand Career and Progression Opportunities in the Health and Social Care Sector | 00:00:00 | ||
| Lo2 Understand Professional Development in Health and Social Care | 00:00:00 | ||
| Lo3 Understand How Reflective Practice Supports Personal and Professional Development | 00:00:00 | ||
| Lo4 Understand How to Plan Own Personal and Professional Development in Health and Social Care | 00:00:00 | ||
| Indicative Content | 00:00:00 | ||
| Support Materials | |||
| 1.1 – Working in Social Care | 00:00:00 | ||
| 1.2 – Career Progression Options in Health and Social Care | 00:00:00 | ||
| 1.3 – Personal Skills What Do Health Care Professionals Need | 00:00:00 | ||
| Role of Health and Social Care Workers in Detail | 00:00:00 | ||
| Trainning | 00:00:00 | ||
| What Is Health and Social Care | 00:00:00 | ||
| 2.1 – Standards and Professional Development | 00:00:00 | ||
| 2.2 – Continuing Professional Development Within Health and Social Care | 00:00:00 | ||
| 2.3 – the Importance of Continuing Professional Development | 00:00:00 | ||
| Explain What Is Meant by Reflective Practice | 00:00:00 | ||
| What is Reflective Practice | 00:00:00 | ||
| Research and Evidence-Based Practice | 00:00:00 | ||
| Explain Theoretical Models of Reflective Practice | 00:00:00 | ||
| Reflective Model According to Kolb+graham Gibbs – Reflective Cycle | 00:00:00 | ||
| Describe How Own Values | 00:00:00 | ||
| The Reflective Journal Thought Process | 00:00:00 | ||
| Reflect on Own Learning | 00:00:00 | ||
| Developing a Personal Development Plan (Pdp) | 00:00:00 | ||
| Personal Development Plan | 00:00:00 | ||
| Personal Development | 00:00:00 | ||
| SMART Goals | 00:00:00 | ||
| Assignment | |||
| Assignment: Personal and Professional Development in the Health and Social Care Sector | 00:00:00 | ||
| Assignment Submission Guideline | |||
| Assignment Submission Guideline | 00:00:00 | ||
| Submit Your Assignment - ATHE Level 3 Diploma in Health and Social Care | |||
| Submit Your Assignment – ATHE Level 3 Diploma in Health and Social Care | 00:00:00 | ||
| Resubmit Your Assignments | |||
| Resubmit Your Assignments – ATHE Level 3 Diploma in Health and Social Care (2020) | 00:00:00 | ||
