Awards & professional qualifications

There is an increasing emphasis in health and social care related employment on continuing professional development (CPD) and the need for lifelong learning. The Faculty of Health & Social Care is ideally placed to help you keep up with these demands. We offer a range of professional qualifications and academic awards to meet your needs at particular stages of career development and educational achievement. Examples of study pathways show how our courses can help people working in health and social care.

If you are a qualified or experienced practitioner looking for an opportunity to update your knowledge and skills in a particular area, one of our CPD certificates may offer what you are looking for (see the full list of certificates, diplomas, foundation degrees and degrees that we offer).

Some of our courses and awards can also help you to gain entry to or membership of professional bodies, or may exempt you from academic requirements of those bodies.

We offer a growing range of professional qualifications for health and social care staff. Practical and convenient, they combine selected OU courses with practice learning – often in your own workplace. There are separate registration arrangements for these qualifications, and for several you need to be sponsored by your employer.

Qualifications
Undergraduate Certificates Effective Practice (Youth Justice) (C80) In September 2012, The Open University introduced a restructured undergraduate curriculum that replaced its existing undergraduate qualifications. This pre-September 2012 undergraduate qualification will only be available to continuing students until 31 December 2017. In order to claim this qualification, you must have completed the required 60 credits by this time. If you have any questions about your eligibility for this qualification, please contact the Centre for Qualifications and Ceremonies on +44 (0)1908 653003 or by email. This qualification is for you if you work in the area of youth justice. It will deepen your knowledge and critical understanding of the youth justice system in England and Wales; encourage you to reflect on the ideas that influence your work; and develop the understanding and skills you need to move on in your own practice. You’ll study the operation of the youth justice system within a multi-agency context; examine the principles of evidence-based practice; and consider the appropriateness of different approaches designed to prevent offending and re-offending by children and young people. You’ll provide evidence of competence in putting these methods, values and principles into practice – drawing on your own practice and the operation of the team in which you work. You’ll also be able to accurately and discriminately specify, search for and use the information needed for effective practice. Management (Health and Social Care) (C40) Please note that this certificate is only available until 31 December 2013. In order to claim your qualification you must have completed the required 60 credits by this time. If you have any questions about your eligibility for this qualification please contact the Credit, Qualifications and Ceremonies Centre on +44(0) 1908 653003 or by email . This certificate provides you with the knowledge, techniques and analytical tools you need to become an effective manager in the public, voluntary and private sectors of health and social care. Diplomas Adult Nursing (D67) Please note that this diploma of higher education is only available until 31 December 2016. In order to claim your qualification you must have completed the required 240 credits by this time. If you have any questions about your eligibility for this qualification please contact the Credit, Qualifications and Ceremonies Centre on +44(0) 1908 653003 or by email. The pre-registration nursing programme leads to the award of an Open University Diploma of Higher Education in Adult Nursing and eligibility to apply for entry to the NMC Register (Part 1) as a Registered Nurse. To be considered for entry to this programme you need to be working as a healthcare support worker, be sponsored and supported by your employer and meet the statutory body’s minimum requirements for entry to nurse education. While studying the programme you will develop the knowledge, skills and understanding for contemporary nursing practice. The programme consists of equal amounts of theory and practice learning. Practice learning is organised to ensure that you have sufficient and appropriate practice experience. The programme involves a structured educational framework that uses the workplace as the site for your learning. Therefore it is only open to you if your employer is/becomes involved in this Open University partnership. Mental Health Nursing (D68) Please note that this diploma of higher education is only available until 31 December 2016. In order to claim your qualification you must have completed the required 240 credits by this time. If you have any questions about your eligibility for this qualification please contact the Credit, Qualifications and Ceremonies Centre on +44(0) 1908 653003 or by email. The pre-registration nursing programme leads to the award of an Open University Diploma of Higher Education in Mental Health Nursing and eligibility to apply for entry to the NMC Register (Part 1) as a Registered Nurse. To be considered for entry to this programme you need to be working as a healthcare support worker, be sponsored and supported by your employer and meet the statutory body’s minimum requirements for entry to nurse education. While studying the programme you will develop the knowledge, skills and understanding for contemporary nursing practice. The programme consists of equal amounts of theory and practice learning. Practice learning is organised to ensure that you have sufficient and appropriate practice experience. The programme involves a structured educational framework that uses the workplace as the site for student learning. Therefore it is only open to you if your employer is/becomes involved in this Open University partnership. Degrees Social Work (England) (B32) In September 2012, The Open University introduced a restructured undergraduate curriculum that replaced its existing undergraduate qualifications. This pre-September 2012 undergraduate qualification will only be available to continuing students until 31 December 2017. In order to claim this qualification, you must have completed the required 360 credits by this time. If you have any questions about your eligibility for this qualification, please contact the Centre for Qualifications and Ceremonies on +44 (0)1908 653003 or by email. Social workers support and protect some of society’s most deprived and vulnerable people. It’s immensely challenging and rewarding work, requiring a high level of motivation and commitment. You also need a qualifying degree. The Open University’s BA (Hons) Social Work (England) is approved by the regulatory body and leads to registration as a qualified social worker. To take this degree course, you need to be working in a social care agency and be sponsored by your employer, who will work in partnership with us to support your learning. You’ll continue with your employment while you study, earning while you learn. Studying through work-based and distance learning, you’ll develop the knowledge and practical skills that underpin effective practice, and the ability to deal with difficult and sensitive issues while working within a complex professional system. Towards the end of your studies, specialist options will enable you to focus on particular client groups and practice areas. Social Work (Scotland) (B41) In September 2012, The Open University introduced a restructured undergraduate curriculum that replaced its existing undergraduate qualifications. This pre-September 2012 undergraduate qualification will only be available to continuing students until 31 December 2017. In order to claim this qualification, you must have completed the required 480 credits by this time. If you have any questions about your eligibility for this qualification, please contact the Centre for Qualifications and Ceremonies on +44 (0)1908 653003 or by email. Social workers support and protect some of society’s most deprived and vulnerable people. It’s immensely challenging and rewarding work, requiring a high level of motivation and commitment. You also need a qualifying degree. The Open University’s BA (Hons) Social Work (Scotland) is approved by the Scottish Social Services Council (SSSC) and leads to registration as a qualified social worker. To take this degree course, you need to be working in a social care agency in Scotland and sponsored by your employer, who will work in partnership with us to support your learning. You’ll continue with your employment while you study, earning while you learn. Studying through work-based and distance learning, you’ll develop the knowledge and practical skills that underpin effective practice, and the ability to deal with difficult and sensitive issues while working within a complex professional system. Towards the end of your studies, specialist options will enable you to focus on particular client groups and practice areas. Social Work (Scotland) (B50) In September 2012, The Open University introduced a restructured undergraduate curriculum that replaced its existing undergraduate qualifications. This pre-September 2012 undergraduate qualification will only be available to continuing students until 31 December 2017. In order to claim this qualification, you must have completed the required 360 credits by this time. If you have any questions about your eligibility for this qualification, please contact the Centre for Qualifications and Ceremonies on +44 (0)1908 653003 or by email. If you’re already a graduate with a degree in any subject from a UK university, you can enter our BA (Hons) Social Work (Scotland) directly at Stage 2, provided that you meet the entry requirements. Social workers support and protect some of society’s most deprived and vulnerable people. It’s immensely challenging and rewarding work, requiring a high level of motivation and commitment. You also need a qualifying degree. The Open University’s BA (Hons) Social Work (Scotland) is approved by the Scottish Social Services Council (SSSC) and leads to registration as a qualified social worker. To take this degree course, you need to be working in a social care agency in Scotland and sponsored by your employer, who will work in partnership with us to support your learning. You’ll continue with your employment while you study, earning while you learn. Studying through work-based and distance learning, you’ll develop the knowledge and practical skills that underpin effective practice, and the ability to deal with difficult and sensitive issues while working within a complex professional system. Towards the end of your studies, specialist options will enable you to focus on particular client groups and practice areas. Social Work (Wales) (B42) In September 2012, The Open University introduced a restructured undergraduate curriculum that replaced its existing undergraduate qualifications. This pre-September 2012 undergraduate qualification will only be available to continuing students until 31 December 2017. In order to claim this qualification, you must have completed the required 360 credits by this time. If you have any questions about your eligibility for this qualification, please contact the Centre for Qualifications and Ceremonies on +44 (0)1908 653003 or by email. Social workers support and protect some of society’s most deprived and vulnerable people. It’s immensely challenging and rewarding work, requiring a high level of motivation and commitment. You also need a qualifying degree. The Open University in Wales offers a work-based distance learning route to the BA (Hons) Social Work (Wales) for students working in social care in Wales. The degree has been approved by Care Council for Wales (CCW) and once you’ve successfully completed your studies, you’ll be entitled to register with the CCW as a social worker. This degree course is available to you if you’re working in a social care agency in Wales, whether or not you’re being funded by your employer. The Open University provides study materials and tutorial support, organises workshops and manages the assessment procedures. Practice learning opportunities are arranged between your employer and the OU in collaboration with a Local Authority. Studying through work-based and distance learning, you’ll develop the knowledge and practical skills that underpin effective practice, and the ability to deal with difficult and sensitive issues while working within a complex professional system. Towards the end of your studies, specialist options will enable you to focus on particular client groups and practice areas. Foundation Degrees Youth Justice (England and Wales) (G09) In September 2012, The Open University introduced a restructured undergraduate curriculum that replaced its existing undergraduate qualifications. This pre-September 2012 undergraduate qualification will only be available to continuing students until 31 December 2017. In order to claim this qualification, you must have completed the required 240 credits by this time. If you have any questions about your eligibility for this qualification, please contact the Centre for Qualifications and Ceremonies on +44 (0)1908 653003 or by email. How can we improve the lives of children and young people who are ‘in trouble’? For professionals and volunteers working within a criminal justice framework where the focus is on stopping young people causing trouble, this is an extremely challenging issue. This foundation degree in youth justice is designed for those employed in all parts of the youth justice system (including the secure estate), volunteers working in the field, and anyone planning to join the youth justice sector in these capacities. The foundation degree course will give you the necessary knowledge and skills for effective practice in youth justice and make a substantial contribution to your professional and personal development. It will also, support you in developing as an autonomous learner. The Foundation Degree is sponsored by the Youth Justice Board of England and Wales (YJB) as part of its Youth Justice National Qualifications Framework (NQF). It includes the Professional Certificate of Effective Practice (PCEP), recognised by the YJB as the core qualification for the youth justice sector. In addition, the Stage 1 credits combine to offer the CertHE in Youth Justice Practice.

Qualifications

Undergraduate

Certificates

Effective Practice (Youth Justice) (C80)
In September 2012, The Open University introduced a restructured undergraduate curriculum that replaced its existing undergraduate qualifications.

This pre-September 2012 undergraduate qualification will only be available to continuing students until 31 December 2017. In order to claim this qualification, you must have completed the required 60 credits by this time.

If you have any questions about your eligibility for this qualification, please contact the Centre for Qualifications and Ceremonies on +44 (0)1908 653003 or by email.

This qualification is for you if you work in the area of youth justice. It will deepen your knowledge and critical understanding of the youth justice system in England and Wales; encourage you to reflect on the ideas that influence your work; and develop the understanding and skills you need to move on in your own practice. You’ll study the operation of the youth justice system within a multi-agency context; examine the principles of evidence-based practice; and consider the appropriateness of different approaches designed to prevent offending and re-offending by children and young people. You’ll provide evidence of competence in putting these methods, values and principles into practice – drawing on your own practice and the operation of the team in which you work. You’ll also be able to accurately and discriminately specify, search for and use the information needed for effective practice.
Management (Health and Social Care) (C40)
Please note that this certificate is only available until 31 December 2013. In order to claim your qualification you must have completed the required 60 credits by this time.

If you have any questions about your eligibility for this qualification please contact the Credit, Qualifications and Ceremonies Centre on +44(0) 1908 653003 or by email .

This certificate provides you with the knowledge, techniques and analytical tools you need to become an effective manager in the public, voluntary and private sectors of health and social care.

Diplomas

Adult Nursing (D67)
Please note that this diploma of higher education is only available until 31 December 2016. In order to claim your qualification you must have completed the required 240 credits by this time.

If you have any questions about your eligibility for this qualification please contact the Credit, Qualifications and Ceremonies Centre on +44(0) 1908 653003 or by email.

The pre-registration nursing programme leads to the award of an Open University Diploma of Higher Education in Adult Nursing and eligibility to apply for entry to the NMC Register (Part 1) as a Registered Nurse. To be considered for entry to this programme you need to be working as a healthcare support worker, be sponsored and supported by your employer and meet the statutory body’s minimum requirements for entry to nurse education. While studying the programme you will develop the knowledge, skills and understanding for contemporary nursing practice. The programme consists of equal amounts of theory and practice learning. Practice learning is organised to ensure that you have sufficient and appropriate practice experience. The programme involves a structured educational framework that uses the workplace as the site for your learning. Therefore it is only open to you if your employer is/becomes involved in this Open University partnership.
Mental Health Nursing (D68)
Please note that this diploma of higher education is only available until 31 December 2016. In order to claim your qualification you must have completed the required 240 credits by this time.

If you have any questions about your eligibility for this qualification please contact the Credit, Qualifications and Ceremonies Centre on +44(0) 1908 653003 or by email.

The pre-registration nursing programme leads to the award of an Open University Diploma of Higher Education in Mental Health Nursing and eligibility to apply for entry to the NMC Register (Part 1) as a Registered Nurse. To be considered for entry to this programme you need to be working as a healthcare support worker, be sponsored and supported by your employer and meet the statutory body’s minimum requirements for entry to nurse education. While studying the programme you will develop the knowledge, skills and understanding for contemporary nursing practice. The programme consists of equal amounts of theory and practice learning. Practice learning is organised to ensure that you have sufficient and appropriate practice experience. The programme involves a structured educational framework that uses the workplace as the site for student learning. Therefore it is only open to you if your employer is/becomes involved in this Open University partnership.

Degrees

Social Work (England) (B32)
In September 2012, The Open University introduced a restructured undergraduate curriculum that replaced its existing undergraduate qualifications.

This pre-September 2012 undergraduate qualification will only be available to continuing students until 31 December 2017. In order to claim this qualification, you must have completed the required 360 credits by this time.

If you have any questions about your eligibility for this qualification, please contact the Centre for Qualifications and Ceremonies on +44 (0)1908 653003 or by email.

Social workers support and protect some of society’s most deprived and vulnerable people. It’s immensely challenging and rewarding work, requiring a high level of motivation and commitment. You also need a qualifying degree.

The Open University’s BA (Hons) Social Work (England) is approved by the regulatory body and leads to registration as a qualified social worker. To take this degree course, you need to be working in a social care agency and be sponsored by your employer, who will work in partnership with us to support your learning. You’ll continue with your employment while you study, earning while you learn.

Studying through work-based and distance learning, you’ll develop the knowledge and practical skills that underpin effective practice, and the ability to deal with difficult and sensitive issues while working within a complex professional system. Towards the end of your studies, specialist options will enable you to focus on particular client groups and practice areas.
Social Work (Scotland) (B41)
In September 2012, The Open University introduced a restructured undergraduate curriculum that replaced its existing undergraduate qualifications.

This pre-September 2012 undergraduate qualification will only be available to continuing students until 31 December 2017. In order to claim this qualification, you must have completed the required 480 credits by this time.

If you have any questions about your eligibility for this qualification, please contact the Centre for Qualifications and Ceremonies on +44 (0)1908 653003 or by email.

Social workers support and protect some of society’s most deprived and vulnerable people. It’s immensely challenging and rewarding work, requiring a high level of motivation and commitment. You also need a qualifying degree.

The Open University’s BA (Hons) Social Work (Scotland) is approved by the Scottish Social Services Council (SSSC) and leads to registration as a qualified social worker. To take this degree course, you need to be working in a social care agency in Scotland and sponsored by your employer, who will work in partnership with us to support your learning. You’ll continue with your employment while you study, earning while you learn.

Studying through work-based and distance learning, you’ll develop the knowledge and practical skills that underpin effective practice, and the ability to deal with difficult and sensitive issues while working within a complex professional system. Towards the end of your studies, specialist options will enable you to focus on particular client groups and practice areas.
Social Work (Scotland) (B50)
In September 2012, The Open University introduced a restructured undergraduate curriculum that replaced its existing undergraduate qualifications.

This pre-September 2012 undergraduate qualification will only be available to continuing students until 31 December 2017. In order to claim this qualification, you must have completed the required 360 credits by this time.

If you have any questions about your eligibility for this qualification, please contact the Centre for Qualifications and Ceremonies on +44 (0)1908 653003 or by email.

If you’re already a graduate with a degree in any subject from a UK university, you can enter our BA (Hons) Social Work (Scotland) directly at Stage 2, provided that you meet the entry requirements.

Social workers support and protect some of society’s most deprived and vulnerable people. It’s immensely challenging and rewarding work, requiring a high level of motivation and commitment. You also need a qualifying degree.

The Open University’s BA (Hons) Social Work (Scotland) is approved by the Scottish Social Services Council (SSSC) and leads to registration as a qualified social worker. To take this degree course, you need to be working in a social care agency in Scotland and sponsored by your employer, who will work in partnership with us to support your learning. You’ll continue with your employment while you study, earning while you learn.

Studying through work-based and distance learning, you’ll develop the knowledge and practical skills that underpin effective practice, and the ability to deal with difficult and sensitive issues while working within a complex professional system. Towards the end of your studies, specialist options will enable you to focus on particular client groups and practice areas.
Social Work (Wales) (B42)
In September 2012, The Open University introduced a restructured undergraduate curriculum that replaced its existing undergraduate qualifications.

This pre-September 2012 undergraduate qualification will only be available to continuing students until 31 December 2017. In order to claim this qualification, you must have completed the required 360 credits by this time.

If you have any questions about your eligibility for this qualification, please contact the Centre for Qualifications and Ceremonies on +44 (0)1908 653003 or by email.

Social workers support and protect some of society’s most deprived and vulnerable people. It’s immensely challenging and rewarding work, requiring a high level of motivation and commitment. You also need a qualifying degree.

The Open University in Wales offers a work-based distance learning route to the BA (Hons) Social Work (Wales) for students working in social care in Wales. The degree has been approved by Care Council for Wales (CCW) and once you’ve successfully completed your studies, you’ll be entitled to register with the CCW as a social worker. This degree course is available to you if you’re working in a social care agency in Wales, whether or not you’re being funded by your employer. The Open University provides study materials and tutorial support, organises workshops and manages the assessment procedures. Practice learning opportunities are arranged between your employer and the OU in collaboration with a Local Authority.

Studying through work-based and distance learning, you’ll develop the knowledge and practical skills that underpin effective practice, and the ability to deal with difficult and sensitive issues while working within a complex professional system. Towards the end of your studies, specialist options will enable you to focus on particular client groups and practice areas.

Foundation Degrees

Youth Justice (England and Wales) (G09)
In September 2012, The Open University introduced a restructured undergraduate curriculum that replaced its existing undergraduate qualifications.

This pre-September 2012 undergraduate qualification will only be available to continuing students until 31 December 2017. In order to claim this qualification, you must have completed the required 240 credits by this time.

If you have any questions about your eligibility for this qualification, please contact the Centre for Qualifications and Ceremonies on +44 (0)1908 653003 or by email.

How can we improve the lives of children and young people who are ‘in trouble’? For professionals and volunteers working within a criminal justice framework where the focus is on stopping young people causing trouble, this is an extremely challenging issue. This foundation degree in youth justice is designed for those employed in all parts of the youth justice system (including the secure estate), volunteers working in the field, and anyone planning to join the youth justice sector in these capacities. The foundation degree course will give you the necessary knowledge and skills for effective practice in youth justice and make a substantial contribution to your professional and personal development. It will also, support you in developing as an autonomous learner.

The Foundation Degree is sponsored by the Youth Justice Board of England and Wales (YJB) as part of its Youth Justice National Qualifications Framework (NQF). It includes the Professional Certificate of Effective Practice (PCEP), recognised by the YJB as the core qualification for the youth justice sector. In addition, the Stage 1 credits combine to offer the CertHE in Youth Justice Practice.

The links below will lead you to full descriptions of our courses and awards (our glossary will help with any terms that are unfamiliar to you). If you prefer, you can order a printed prospectus. You will also find skilled support teams available at our Regional Centres to help with any questions you may have.

Children and Young People

Youth Justice