The Extended Diploma is a two-year, full-time course that meets entry requirements in its own right for learners who want to progress to higher education courses in health and social care areas before entering employment, it is equivalent to 3 A Levels. It can also support learners who want to progress directly to employment in job roles or apprenticeships.

13 units of which 8 are mandatory (set topics). The additional 5 are optional units (selected topics).

Assessments consist of internal (assignments, practicals, etc) and external (examinations, tasks, etc).

The content of this qualification has been developed in consultation with academics to ensure that it supports progression to higher education courses. Employers and professional bodies have also been involved and consulted to confirm that the content is appropriate and consistent with current practise for learners who may choose to enter employment directly in the health and social care sector.

The qualification provides the knowledge, understanding and skills that allow learners to gain experience of the sector that will prepare them for further study or training.

Learners will study the following Mandatory Units:

Learners will also complete four optional units that have been designed to support progression to the range of sector-related courses in higher education, and link with relevant occupational areas. These units cover topics relating to psychology, sociology, health and science.

The Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Extended Diploma in Health and Social Care provides work-related learning, giving learners an edge and opening the door to higher education or employment in health and social care sectors. Clear progression routes include BSc degrees in subjects such as Social Work, Nursing, Occupational Therapy, Midwifery, Paramedic Science and more! This course also supports progression into direct entry level roles within health and social care sectors.