The ATHE Level 5 Extended Diploma in Health and Social Care (2024) is an advanced 120-credit qualification for learners who want to develop their knowledge and progress towards greater responsibility within the health and social care sector. It is equivalent to the second year of a bachelor’s degree and is designed for learners seeking to progress to a higher education institution for the third year of a bachelor’s degree in an area of management within the healthcare sector, subject to the university’s entry requirements. Building on the Level 5 Diploma, it focuses on leadership and management in care settings and follows Skills for Care’s Level 5 Leading and Managing an Adult Care Service specification. 

Throughout the course, you’ll develop your ability to lead and manage health and social care services while understanding the values, behaviours and professional responsibilities expected in the sector. You’ll explore approaches to improvement, innovation and performance management, alongside professional development and effective leadership. The programme also gives you opportunities to strengthen your understanding of areas such as care planning, service models, operational planning and workforce management.

The qualification provides a broad understanding of how health and social care organisations operate and respond to changing needs. Your learning covers areas such as digital skills, financial management, risk management, project management, recruitment and retention, policy, ethics and legislation. You’ll also explore transitions in care, organisational practice and wider global health issues, strengthening the critical thinking and decision-making skills needed for responsible practice and leadership. 

If you want to advance your knowledge through a flexible route, UK Professional Development Academy offers this qualification through online learning designed around your schedule. You’ll receive 24/7 support, growth analytics to help you monitor your learning progress, high-quality course resources and instant course allocation for a smooth start. On successful completion, you can gain a recognised certification from ATHE, an Ofqual-regulated awarding organisation, giving your professional development a credible qualification pathway within health and social care.