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Healthcare Practice (Level 4 Certificate of Higher Education) (Level 4 Certificate Open University)

Open University
Care & Health

Course Overview

This is a new, innovative and challenging programme for those wishing to progress on to degrees in Nursing, Midwifery, Occupational Therapy and Paramedic Science, or those wishing to work in the health and care sector. You will study practical modules that are very relevant to working in healthcare, and complete a substantial placement of 770hrs (24hrs/week) where you will gain relevant skills, knowledge and experience for working in a modern healthcare environment. Some of the skills you will cover include: - Person-centred care - Communication - Infection Control - Medicines Management - Acute and Emergency Care - Mobility - Hygiene, skin integrity and wound care. This Level 4 programme is assessed using a range of methods including coursework, presentations, portfolios, class tests, reports, simulated assessment and in-practice assessment. Following successful completion of the Level 4 programme, students can progress to degree-level study in the area of health and care and/or employment in the health and care sector.
  • Start Date
    8 Sept 2025
  • Study Mode
    Full-Time
  • Duration
    1 Year
  • Campus
    Strand Road

Available Sessions

  • Course
    Campus
    Type
    Start Date
    Fees
  • Course: Open University Level 4 Certificate of Higher Education in Healthcare Practice
    Campus: Strand Road
    Type: Full Time
    Start Date: 08/09/2025
    Fees:
    £2,500 per annum (subject to change)

Course Offering

  • Site location Strand Road

Course Modules

  • Introduction to Healthcare Practice
  • Introduction to Health & Social Care
  • Work Placement in Health & Social Care
Want to book your place?
Apply Now

Entry Requirements

UK Requirements

48 UCAS points or equivalent, plus English GCSE Grade C or equivalent (Essential Skills Level 2) and Math GCSE Grade C or equivalent.Accreditation of Prior Experiential Learning - Applicants who do not meet the criteria outlined above, but have evidence of substantial knowledge or relevant industrial experience and skills, are also eligible to apply.Attendance at interview required by all applicants. Access NI check required for all successful applicants.

ROI Requirements

48 UCAS points or above. Students must also have English at Grade O5 and above. Note: Whilst ILC O5/D1 is acceptable for English & Math at Leaving Cert [Ordinary level] for entry to this Level 4 programme, students must be made aware that they should check the criteria for progression to their universities of choice as university entry requirements vary. Accreditation of Prior Experiential Learning - Applicants who do not meet the criteria outlined above, but have evidence of substantial knowledge or relevant industrial experience and skills, are also eligible to apply. Attendance at information session and interview required by all applicants. Access NI check required for all successful applicants. Please note: Math OLC grade O5 or above although not essential on entry, must be completed in addition to course studies

Additional Requirements Prior to Entry

Interview Required
Access NI Check

Work Placement

All students will complete a mandatory 770hrs (average 24hrs/week) practice placement within the Western Health & Social Care Trust, in addition to attending College for one full day each week.

Fee Information

  • Additional Fees
  • Materials -
  • Uniform - £30 approx

What's Next?

Further Study

Students can progress directly from this course onto several degree pathways including Nursing (Adult, Mental Health, Learning Disability), Midwifery, Paramedic Science and Occupational Therapy. Please note that it is the responsibility of the applicant to check the entry requirements for each university and to ensure that GCSE entry requirements for university are met before enrolling on a course at the College.

Career Prospects

Following successful completion of the Level 4 programme, students can progress to degree-level study in the area of health and care or employment in the healthcare sector. The opportunity also exists to continue your Nursing degree with the Open University if specific employment is secured within the WHSCT and the Trust agrees to release you to undertake this study. Completing this course is not a guarantee of employment with the Trust and securing employment with the Trust is not a guarantee that you will be released for further study.

Enquiry

  • Image of Chelsea O’Kane (Art & Design)
    My course enabled me to explore so many different aspects of Art & Design that I would not have had the opportunity to do if I had followed the traditional A-Level route.
    Chelsea O’Kane (Art & Design)
  • Image of Gary Peoples
    I am now Operations Manager at the City Hotel. Anyone thinking about returning to education has nothing to worry about. I would 100% recommend the HLA process.
    Gary Peoples
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