Description
Overview of ATHE Level 3 Diploma in Health and Social Care
If you are looking to build a career in the Health and Social Care sector in the future, this course will provide you with a strong foundation. The ATHE Level 3 Diploma in Health and Social Care is a 60-credit qualification that is equivalent to an A Level or Access to Higher Education (HE) qualification.
This internationally recognised qualification helps learners develop the essential knowledge and practical understanding needed for the Health and Social Care sector. Even if you do not have traditional entry qualifications, this diploma can still provide a strong pathway to further study in Health and Social Care and support your progression into higher education.
The ATHE Level 3 Diploma in Health and Social Care has been designed to provide learners with a strong foundation in the key principles and practices of the Health and Social Care sector.
Throughout the course, you will explore a wide range of essential topics, including:
- The structure and purpose of Health and Social Care services
- Professional values and ethical practice
- Human growth and development
- Research and academic skills
- Teamwork and effective communication
- Personal and professional development
Each unit is structured in a clear and learner-friendly way, allowing you to build your knowledge step by step. The course combines both theoretical understanding and practical approaches, helping you develop the skills needed to analyse problems, make informed decisions, and apply your learning in Health and Social Care settings.
This qualification provides a strong starting point for anyone planning to start a career in Health and Social Care, as well as for those already working in support-based roles who want to enhance their knowledge and progress further.
As an ATHE qualification regulated by Ofqual (UK), this diploma is widely recognised and can support progression to further study, higher education, and employment opportunities within the Health and Social Care sector.
If you are looking for a flexible, recognised, and career-focused qualification, this course will help you gain the knowledge, confidence, and skills needed to take the next step in your educational or professional journey.
Disclaimer
The Institute of Mental Health (IOMH) offers this qualification as a reseller in partnership with One Education, which is the main approved centre responsible for delivering and awarding this course.
Guided Learning Hours (GLH)
Qualification Structure for ATHE Level 3 Diploma in Health and Social Care
Total Qualification Time (TQT)
This qualification is part of ATHE’s International Access Programme (IAP), a suite of Level 3 qualifications. Each qualification within the programme carries 60 credits, and learners may choose to study one or more qualifications from the suite.
Accreditation
The ATHE Level 3 Diploma in Health and Social Care is an Ofqual-regulated qualification, ensuring it meets recognised UK quality standards and supports progression to further study and employment.
Certification
Upon successful completion of the course, learners will be awarded the ATHE Level 3 Diploma in Health and Social Care certificate.
Although the qualification is awarded by ATHE, One Education is the approved centre responsible for learner registration, certification, and issuing the final certificate. As IOMH delivers this course in partnership with One Education, all certificates will be processed and sent to learners through the approved centre.
Method of Assessment
This qualification is assignment-based, meaning there are no formal examinations.
All assessments are managed through the approved centre, One Education, including:
- Assessment and marking
- Internal Quality Assurance (IQA)
- Learner registration with ATHE
Based on the quality of the submitted assignments, learners will receive one of the following grades for each unit:
- Pass
- Merit
- Distinction
- Fail
Who Is This Course for?
This qualification is suitable for:
- Learners who want to begin a career in Health and Social Care
- School leavers and adult learners seeking a recognised Level 3 qualification
- Support workers and care staff who want to enhance their knowledge and skills
- Learners planning to progress to higher-level study in Health and Social Care
It is suitable for learners in England and Northern Ireland who wish to build a strong foundation in the sector.
Entry Requirements
This qualification is designed for learners who are typically 16 years of age or above.
Applicants should meet one of the following academic and English language requirements:
Academic Qualification
- Five or more GCSEs at Grade C or above (or Grade 4 or above)
English Language Proficiency
- IELTS: 5.5
- CEFR: B2
- Cambridge English Advanced (CAE): 162 or above
- Pearson Test of English (PTE) Academic: 42–49
Course Progression
After completing this qualification, learners may progress to:
- ATHE Level 4 or Level 5 qualifications in Health and Social Care
- A university degree programme in a related subject
Career Path
The ATHE Level 3 Diploma in Health and Social Care can support progression into a wide range of roles across care homes, community services, supported living, residential care, and healthcare settings.
Typical salaries in the UK vary depending on the employer, location, shift patterns, and level of experience. Entry-level roles often start at around £20,000 to £24,000 per year, while more experienced and specialist positions can rise to £25,000 to £32,000+. Senior, supervisory, and management roles may earn £35,000 to £45,000+ or more in some settings.
Possible job titles include:
- Healthcare Assistant – typically £20,000 to £24,000
- Care Assistant – typically £20,000 to £23,500
- Support Worker – typically £20,000 to £25,000
- Residential Support Worker – typically £21,000 to £25,500
- Domiciliary Care Worker / Home Care Worker – typically £20,000 to £24,500
- Community Support Worker – typically £21,000 to £26,000
- Mental Health Support Worker – typically £22,000 to £27,000
- Learning Disabilities Support Worker – typically £21,000 to £26,500
- Rehabilitation Support Worker – typically £22,000 to £27,500
- Nursing Assistant / Nursing Support Worker – typically £21,000 to £26,000
- Activities Coordinator – typically £21,000 to £26,000
- Day Centre Support Worker – typically £20,000 to £25,000
- Personal Assistant in Care Settings – typically £20,000 to £24,000
- Family Support Worker – typically £22,000 to £28,000
- Health and Social Care Assistant – typically £20,000 to £24,500
- Senior Care Assistant – typically £24,000 to £29,000
- Senior Support Worker – typically £24,000 to £30,000





