FdSc Assistant Practitioner in Healthcare

The FdSc Assistant Practitioner in Healthcare at University College Birmingham is a two-year-plus End Point Assessment higher apprenticeship leading to a Foundation Degree (FdSc) in Assistant Practitioner (Health). Students must already be working at least 30 hours per week in a health or social care environment. The course develops students' knowledge, skills, and behaviours to perform in roles such as surgical support, maternity, diagnostics, or rehabilitation.

Students learn through a blend of on-the-job training and weekly university attendance and are assessed through coursework, exams, and observed clinical practice. After completing around 200 academic credits, students enter a gateway stage and then complete an End Point Assessment to confirm they meet the occupational standard.

University College Birmingham (UCB) is located in Birmingham, UK. It is known for strong relationships with industry and a focus on practical, career-oriented learning. The university offers a broad range of programmes at both undergraduate and postgraduate levels in areas such as Medicine, Law, Engineering, Business, and the Arts. Facilities include on-campus clinics where students serve real clients under supervision and use modern technologies. UCB is committed to supporting student success, industry relevance, and graduate employability.

Candidates must submit a personal statement explaining their motivation for applying and provide a relevant academic or employer reference. Applicants may also upload a CV to show relevant work or industry experience.

Grade Requirements

• GCSE (or equivalent) Grade 4 (C) or above in English Language and Mathematics.
• Level 3 qualification such as A-level, BTEC National, Access to HE Diploma, or equivalent.
• Applicants without a Level 3 qualification may apply via a portfolio route, providing written testimonials, a reflective piece, and employer support.

English Proficiency

• IELTS overall score of 6.0, with no section less than 5.5.
• Equivalent tests, such as TOEFL iBT, are also accepted.

The FdSc Assistant Practitioner in Healthcare at University College Birmingham is an apprenticeship. The employer normally pays the training costs; therefore, the student does not pay tuition fees directly.

UCB offers a range of merit-based and need-based scholarships for international students, such as the International Scholarship Award, which may reduce tuition costs by up to £2,000.

Possible roles after completing the FdSc Assistant Practitioner in Healthcare at University College Birmingham include:

• Assistant Practitioner in surgical care support
• Practitioner in rehabilitation services
• Practitioner in diagnostics (radiography or imaging)
• Maternity Support Assistant Practitioner
• Rehabilitation Assistant Practitioner

Applicants must apply via the university's application portal. For guidance, applicants can speak with one of the trained counsellors at University College Birmingham.