Keele University

What you'll study

This honours programme draws on sociology, psychology, public health and biomedical perspectives to give you a rounded understanding of health and social care systems. You will study core topics such as determinants of health, social policy, communication and professional practice, research methods, health promotion, ethics and law, and long-term conditions. Modules typically include introductory units in year one to build academic skills and foundational knowledge; applied and interdisciplinary modules in year two that focus on service delivery, mental health, ageing and disability; and in the final year you select advanced option modules and undertake a substantial research project or practice-based dissertation.

Teaching blends lectures, seminars, small-group tutorials and practical workshops. A key element is interprofessional and experiential learning: you will undertake practice placements or community projects, engage with case-based learning and simulation activities, and have opportunities to work with local NHS, social care and voluntary sector partners. Assessment methods include essays, reports, presentations, portfolios, reflective practice assignments and the final-year research project.

Entry requirements

Keele seeks applicants with a mix of academic achievement and motivation for working in health or care contexts. Typical entry routes include A-levels, BTEC qualifications, Scottish Highers, Access to HE diplomas and equivalent international qualifications. Admissions tutors look for evidence of strong communication skills, academic potential and some awareness of health and social care issues through work experience, voluntary work or relevant paid employment.

Applicants normally need passes in English and mathematics at GCSE or equivalent. Mature students are welcome and the programme accepts diverse prior learning and work experience; applicants with vocational qualifications or professional experience should provide a personal statement and references that demonstrate suitability for study and practice-based learning.

Career prospects

Graduates go on to a wide range of roles across health and social care sectors. Common destinations include service support and care coordination in the NHS and social services, policy and commissioning work in local authorities and health boards, roles in health promotion, third-sector organisations and community development, and management or administration in care providers. Many graduates progress to professional training or postgraduate study — for example nursing, social work, public health, health psychology, or health and social care management — where additional qualifications or registration are required for regulated professions.

The programme’s placement elements, applied assessments and research project help develop employability skills valued by employers: communication, teamworking, reflective practice, project planning and evidence-based decision making.

Why study at Keele University

Keele offers a campus-based learning environment with close links to regional NHS trusts, local authorities and voluntary organisations, which supports a strong emphasis on applied learning and placements. Teaching is delivered by staff who combine academic expertise with practice experience across health and social care disciplines, and students benefit from interdisciplinary learning opportunities alongside allied health and social care programmes.

The university provides dedicated student support and facilities for health-related teaching, including practical skills sessions and interprofessional simulation activities. Keele’s approach encourages critical thinking, reflective practice and the research skills you need to work in complex care settings or continue to postgraduate study.