Funded health and social care modules through the National Transition Training Fund

Supported by the Scottish Government’s National Transition Training Fund (NTTF), we are offering a number of individuals the opportunity to study a fully funded undergraduate level module, selecting from across our range of health and social care options.

Whether you already work in a health and social care setting, or you're seeking to move into a career within the sector, studying one of these modules can help you develop and enhance your skills and knowledge to support your career ambitions. 

How to apply

You can apply for a place on one module by completing our application form. You can only apply for a funded place through this page. There are a limited number of places available. Places will be awarded on a first come, first served basis. You can also email us for further information on the courses or the application process.

We only have a few fully-funded places left. Applications will close once the places have been filled.

Eligibility

To apply you'll need to be:

  • resident in Scotland
  • a UK citizen, or have the legal right to live and work in the UK
  • 25+ years of age.
And one of the following:

  • currently employed in a health and social care related role, and seeking to upskill
  • unemployed
  • at risk of redundancy
  • job impacted by Covid-19 (including furloughed, change in hours, etc.)
  • a graduate who no longer has an employed destination
  • a redundant worker looking to gain higher level skills.

What you can study

The following range of OU level 1 and 3 modules are available for standalone study except for Introduction to healthcare practice (K104) – students must be registered on the Certificate of Higher Education in Practice (T01) to study K104. Please refer to each module description, including entry requirements, to consider the option that will best fit your learning needs and suit your circumstances.

All of the modules on offer are 60 credits and will require approximately 16–18 hours of study a week. If you are already working, we recommend you speak to your employer about the support you may need to complete your study each week.

Please note that with the exception of Leading, managing, caring (K318) these modules are not designed to meet qualification requirements for social care workers who are required to register with the Scottish Social Services Council (SSSC). To learn about practice-based qualifications accepted by the SSSC visit www.careersincare.scot.

Introducing health and social care (K102)

This key introductory module provides an authoritative overview of health and social care, with real-life case studies taking you deep into the experience of receiving care and working in care services. Whether you're involved in care work (paid or unpaid), use services yourself, or simply have a general interest, this module will build knowledge and understanding, develop skills, and prepare you for further study.

This module is available for standalone study or could lead to degree level study – including in social work if studied as part of the BA (Honours) Social Work (Scotland).

Introduction to healthcare practice (K104)

This is a practice-based module that completes our Certificate of Higher Education in Healthcare Practice following the study of Introducing Health and Social Care (K102).  You’ll develop skills in questioning, problem-solving, communication and relationship management. You’ll also uncover the essentials of medicines management, anatomy and physiology, and health promotion to keep your practice relevant within an ever-changing healthcare environment.

It is recommended that students have previously completed Introducing health and social care (K102).

Students will need to be employed in a setting where they can gain appropriate practice learning experience under supervision and be assessed in practice.

Foundations for social work practice (K113)

This key introductory OU level 1 module will develop your knowledge of the key roles of social work, and introduce the social work standards and codes of practice relevant to each UK nation. You will also build key skills in information and communication technologies, information literacy and reflective writing.

K113 is available for standalone study or as part of BA (Honours) Social Work (Scotland). Please indicate on your application if you are interested in studying this module as part of a social work pathway, and we can offer advice at point of entry.

Please note that this module requires you to complete a minimum period of 10 days verified practice learning in a social care/social work setting and attend seven compulsory learning events – further details are available on the module webpage.