Health and Social Care AAQ
BackCourse Information
What does the course involve?
The Pearson Level 3 Alternative Academic Qualification BTEC National in Health and Social Care (Extended Certificate) is a two-year course awarded by Pearson. It involves studying various aspects of the health and social care sector, including mandatory and optional units. It is worth 1 A Level.
Course Structure
Mandatory Units (all required):
- Human Lifespan and Development
- Human Biology and Health
- Health and Social Care Practice
Optional Units (select one):
- Health, Policy and Wellbeing
- Promoting Health Education
- Safe Environments in Health and Social Care
- Health Science
Is it for me?
The qualification is designed to be taken alongside A levels as part of a study programme and can link to learning in A levels such as Psychology, Biology or English. It is intended for students that wish to progress into higher education as a pathway to employment.
How will I be assessed?
External Assessment: 50% of the qualification, administered through two exams of 1 hour and 30 minutes each.
Internal Assessment: Accounts for the other 50%, covering two units. The internal assessments vary in length from 15 to 17 hours, including tasks under supervision.
Total Assessments: Students complete a total of four units (three mandatory and one optional).
Where can this course take me?
This qualification is designed to be taken alongside A levels and supports progression to higher education and employment, particularly in fields related to health and social care, psychology, biology, or English. Suggested degrees could be in nursing, social work, paramedic science and other allied health workers.
Entry Requirements
Standard entry requirements, plus:
- Grade 4 in GCSE English Language.
Additional Costs
None
Additional qualifications
The course can be studied alongside A levels or other complementary qualifications, enhancing skills and knowledge applicable to the health and social care sector.
UCAS tariff points
The course provides UCAS points that contribute to university admissions.

