Health and Social Science with Foundation Year

On this degree, you’ll gain a comprehensive understanding of the socio-cultural dimensions of health and illness, alongside an in-depth exploration of the policymaking process and strategies to shape the health and wellbeing agenda at local, national, and global levels.

You will develop essential leadership skills and be empowered to critically analyse environmental, social, economic, and political factors, assessing their influence on health and healthcare systems, locally, nationally and globally.

You’ll also have the valuable opportunity to volunteer in an organisation of your choice.

Why study BSc (Hons) Health and Social Science?

Make an impact on society

Studying a degree in health and social science offers a unique opportunity to understand the complex factors that shape health outcomes and social wellbeing.
This interdisciplinary field equips you with the knowledge and skills to address pressing health challenges, both nationally and globally, through a holistic lens - considering, psychological, social, economic, and political influences.
Graduates are prepared to make meaningful contributions towards, improving public health, shaping policy, and delivering compassionate care within diverse communities.
The degree also cultivates critical thinking, leadership, and communication skills that open doors to rewarding careers in healthcare, social services, policy development, research, and advocacy.
Ultimately, pursuing health and social science empowers you to drive positive change and promote equity in health and social care systems.

Placement Opportunity

During your time with us, you will have the valuable opportunity to volunteer with an organisation of your choice. This could the NHS, local authorities, health and social care providers, voluntary organisations, housing providers, think thanks and education providers.

This volunteering opportunity allows you to put your knowledge and skills into practice, whilst enhancing your practical experience and professional growth.

You’ll have the support and guidance of a BNU tutor who will support your development in practice, as well as the team and management of the placement you are in.

Employability Focus

You'll be taught by experienced lecturers with strong sector knowledge and professional expertise, helping you connect theory with contemporary practice. This course emphasises employability and professional development, equipping you with the transferable skills and knowledge needed for careers across the NHS, health and wellbeing, social care and voluntary sectors.

Flexible Learning Path

Your future career is unique, so the course offers flexibility to tailor your studies through a range of optional modules in later years. After building a broad foundation, you can explore areas such as criminal justice, human rights, global development, mental health, and the relationship between body, culture and society, allowing you to align your degree with your interests and career goals.

What Will I Study?

This course explores the factors that influence health, wellbeing and social outcomes, preparing you to address contemporary challenges in health and social care. You'll examine how policy, society and culture shape health and wellbeing, while developing an understanding of public health, social inequality and approaches to positive social change. The course also develops professional and transferable skills through the study of research methods, ethics and employability, preparing you for careers across the NHS, public health, social services and the voluntary sector. Opportunities for volunteering provide valuable practical experience and help enhance your career prospects.

At Bucks New University, you'll benefit from career-focused teaching, hands-on learning and a supportive community that helps you thrive throughout your degree and beyond.

You'll learn from lecturers with industry experience, gain practical skills in professional-standard facilities and receive personalised support through smaller class sizes. Beyond your course, The Big Deal gives every student free access to sports clubs, societies, fitness facilities, social events, trips, volunteering opportunities and career-boosting workshops. It's Bucks way of helping you discover new interests, meet like-minded people, build your CV and make the most of university life – all without paying extra membership fees.

Whether you're preparing for your future career, growing your confidence or looking for an unforgettable student experience, Bucks offers the opportunities and support to help you achieve your goals.