Ofqual-regulated
Level 2 Diploma in Care
Entry pathway into adult social care — Ofqual-regulated, fully online.
From £950 · 6 or 9 months
View courseSouth East England
Health and Social Care Courses in Southampton
Ofqual-regulated Level 3 Diploma — study online from Southampton
Health and Social Care in Southampton
Southampton is home to University Hospital Southampton, one of the UK's leading academic medical centres and a major employer of health and social care workers. The city's diverse, port-city population creates high demand for multilingual care workers and culturally competent practice — skills specifically addressed in our Level 3 Diploma.
UHS employs over 13,000 staff, with significant social care workforce needs
Southampton has 1 in 6 residents over 65, above the national average
Care Worker Salaries in Southampton (South East England)
| Role | Typical pay |
|---|---|
| Care Worker | £10.80–£12.40/hr |
| Senior Care Worker | £13.00–£14.20/hr |
| Care Home Manager | £30,000–£41,000/year |
Source: Skills for Care Workforce Intelligence, 2024/25
NHS and Care Employers in Southampton
Our Level 3 Diploma is recognised by University Hospital Southampton NHS Foundation Trust (UHS) and by Southampton City Council Adult Social Care for adult social care roles. Employers across South East England specify Level 3 as the standard qualification for career progression.
Popular courses for Southampton learners
All programmes are Ofqual-regulated, assignment-based and fully online.
Ofqual-regulated
Level 3 Diploma in Health and Social Care
The standard qualification for senior care and NHS band 3 progression.
From £950 · 6 or 9 months
View courseOfqual-regulated
Level 4 Diploma in Health and Social Care
Advance into supervisory practice and higher-responsibility care roles.
From £950 · 6 or 9 months
View courseOfqual-regulated
Level 5 Diploma in Health and Social Care Management
Management and leadership for care coordinators and aspiring managers.
From £950 · 6 or 9 months
View courseFrequently Asked Questions — Southampton
Does this diploma qualify me for roles at University Hospital Southampton? ▼
Our Level 3 Health and Social Care Diploma meets the qualification requirements for band 3 healthcare support roles at UHS. Clinical roles require additional NHS-specific training.
Are there Southampton-specific funding schemes for this course? ▼
Southampton City Council's Care Workforce Development Programme may offer bursaries for Southampton residents entering social care. Check with Adult Social Care on 023 8083 3003 or speak to our admissions team.
How long does the course take if I'm already working full-time in care? ▼
Most full-time care workers complete the Level 3 Diploma in 9–12 months studying 6–8 hours per week. We build the timetable around your shifts.