Health Sciences BSc (Hons)

Key Facts

  • UCAS Code

    BSc: L400
    BSc with Foundation: L401

  • Level

    Undergraduate

  • Duration

    Full Time: 3 years
    Full Time Foundation: 4 years
    Part Time: 4 - 6 years

  • Starting

    September

  • BCC at A Level or,
    DMM at BTEC

  • Fees UK 24/25

    Full Time: £9,250
    Part Time: £1,540 (per 20 credits)
    Integrated Foundation Year: £9,250

  • Fees International 24/25

    Full Time: £15,200 Integrated Foundation Year: £15,200

  • Location

Get in touch


For questions regarding study and admissions please contact us:

UK/EU Students enquiries

study@northampton.ac.uk
0300 303 2772

International Students enquiries

international@northampton.ac.uk
+44 (0)1604 893981

Overview


The University of Northampton’s Health Sciences BSc (Hons) degree offers students an in-depth study of the holistic nature of health and disease and a detailed coverage of the integrated health disciplines.

 

The degree in health sciences will include looking into: health psychology, health sociology, medical anthropology, human biology and physiology, human nutrition, public health, health promotion, health policy and biomedical ethics. The programme takes as its point of departure the WHO definition of health which states that ‘health is a state of complete physical, mental and social well-being and not merely the absence of disease’ (WHO 1947).

Updated 19/03/2024

Highlights


  • This health sciences programme highlights the interdisciplinary and multi-factorial approach to understanding health.
  • Assesses current debates and contemporary health issues at local, national and global level.
  • Combines the biological and social sciences to develop evidence-based solutions to health issues
  • Guaranteed paid internship with the Northampton Employment Promise.
  • HP Laptop and software included with this course. Terms and Conditions apply

Course Content


  • This health sciences BSc degree adopts an interdisciplinary approach to the study of health, illness and disease. Students will be introduced to the many interlinked factors that contribute to the health status of individuals and populations. These factors include the biological, psychological, sociological, political and environmental factors that influence health. The precise topics covered will change from year to year to reflect contemporary issues and debates in health, thus ensuring health studies students are always engaging with up to date material.

    As students progress from level 4 to level 6 on this degree in health sciences, they will learn critical evaluation and appraisal, research and communication skills, and how to construct and defend an academic argument.

    Please note the modules shown here relate to the academic year 23/24. The modules relating to the academic year 24/25 will be available from June 2024.

      • Module code: HIS1023
        Status: Compulsory
        The purpose of this module is to explore and contextualise the history of the body, health and healing and its contemporary parallels and relevance. The module will investigate how ideas about body and healing interacted with, and were embedded within, historical understandings of gender, society and culture.
      • Module code: SLS1005
        Status: Compulsory
        The purpose of this module is to understand health, wellbeing, illness and disease in a social, cultural and environmental context
      • Module code: SLS1006
        Status: Compulsory
        The purpose of this module is to introduce the student to the basic principles and concepts of physiology, and to develop an understanding of how different systems are integrated to produce homeostasis.The focus will be on human physiology and will study the form and functions of the major body systems.
      • Module code: SLS1010
        Status: Compulsory
        The purpose of this module is to build a foundation of nutrition knowledge, introducing the nutrients and current recommendations for good health across the lifespan. It will explore the sources of the nutrients in the diet and how the body incorporates them. Students will learn how to investigate the consequences of nutrient intake gaining a fundamental understanding of Nutrition research and how diet relates to health.
      • Module code: SLS1016
        Status: Compulsory
        This module introduces students to the essential theories and concepts in health. The module covers the major concepts used in health research, health policy and health promotion. Each session will focus on a different concept and students will explore the definition and application of each concept. Concepts that are used in measuring the health of individuals and populations. It also covers the concepts that are used in monitoring changes in health status over time and those used to compare the health status of people living in different locations. By the end of the module, students will have a vocabulary of health terminology that they will use and apply in all level 5 and 6 modules in Health Studies.
      • Module code: SLS1022
        Status: Compulsory
        The aim of this module is to explore the achievements and challenges in global health. Students will explore historic and contemporary issues in global health and will examine the policies and strategies that have been used to address global health emergenices. Students will become familiar with the government and non-governmental agencies that work cooperatively to achieve advances in health for local and global populations.
      • Module code: SLS2010
        Status: Designate
        Students will develop an understanding of the biochemical, physiological, genetic and immunological mechanisms involved in disease processes. Although the topics covered seem to concentrate on disease rather than health, the approach will be to emphasise preventative interventions both at the individual and population level.
      • Module code: SLS2012
        Status: Compulsory
        This is a module about how to enhance the health of local, national and global populations. The module begins with an exploration of the key terms used in public health and epidemiology. It then moves on to explore a short history of the public health movement in theory and in practice. A number of case studies are used to illustrate some of the achievements that have emerged from the co-ordinated efforts to improve the health of the population. The module also explores some of the social and political obstacles that delay efforts to protect and promote the health of populations. This historical background lays the foundations for understanding a range of contemporary health issues that affect national and global populations. The two major themes running through the module are 'health policy' and 'health promotion, which will be explored through contemporary case studies. While the emphasis is on the UK population, international comparisons will be made.
      • Module code: SLS2021
        Status: Designate
        In order to understand nutritional factors influencing health, students will explore the role of nutrition in various states that affect individuals over a lifetime and continuing on through current epidemics of chronic diseases. This module expands students? nutritional perspective by in-depth investigation of key current and relevant topics relating to altered nutritional states, and the influence of exercise and disease on human performance.
      • Module code: SLS2022
        Status: Designate
        The purpose of this module is to understand and analyse health in later life from a broad, multidisciplinary and cross-cultural perspective.
      • Module code: SLS2027
        Status: Compulsory
        The purpose of this module is to develop knowledge and understanding of a wide range of research designs, methods and research skills within a subject-based context. It equips the student with a framework in which to conceptualise quantitative and qualitative traditions and applications. The emphasis will be upon understanding and experiencing the research process and developing critical skills necessary to collect, analyse and present data.
      • Module code: SLS2028
        Status: Designate
        The purpose of this module is to understand the fundamentals of epidemiology. The key principles and concepts of epidemiology are introduced alongside an introduction to epidemiological research study designs. The use of case studies that illustrate the application of epidemiology is an essential part of this module.
      • Module code: SLS2029
        Status: Designate
        The aim of this module is to introduce the major theories, perspectives and concepts in health sociology and health psychology and to examine how these can be applied to contemporary health scenarios. Students will become familiar with the major theories and theorists as well as the research base that has used these theories in applied situations.
      • Module code: SLS2035
        Status: Designate
        The aim of this module is to explore the diverse aspects and different disciplinary approaches to reproductive health. The module explores the determinants of reproductive health and some of the barriers to achieving optimal reproductive health. It will examine the different strategies for achieving reproductive health and how these change over time. Students will compare the biomedical and psychosocial approaches to achieving reproductive health and will consider the difference between physical, mental and social health. The module will emphasise the interdisciplinary approach to reproductive health, and in doing so, integrates the socio-cultural, ethical, psychological, biological and nutritional approaches to reproductive health.
      • Module code: SLS2065
        Status: Designate
        The purpose of this module is to provide professional work based learning and experience in a health and/or wellbeing work setting. The focus will be on developing professional, interpersonal, reflective, changemaker and employability skills needed to work in a health and/or wellbeing related environment. Students will apply for and carry out a minimum of 100 hours of work placement and link their placement experiences to health/wellbeing and reflective theory. The module will enable students to critically reflect on their current employability skills and identify future learning needs, goals and opportunities.
      • Module code: SPO2045
        Status: Designate
        The purpose of this module is to develop an understanding of the physiological aetiology and epidemiology of "lifestyle" diseases and the role of physical activity in ameliorating morbidity associated with a sedentary lifestyle. It will explore the complex issues surrounding prescribing exercise as medicine, in the context of the potential role physical activity/exercise/physical fitness can have in reducing the risk of poor physical health.
      • Module code: SLS3001
        Status: Designate
        The purpose of this module is to examine the effect of modern lifestyles on human survival. Humanity has a large influence in shaping the environment; whichalthough often beneficial is now also having detrimental effects on human health and longevity. This module investigates and appraises contemporary environmental issues, and critically analyses and evaluates the application of biological principles to interpret the evidence.
      • Module code: SLS3006
        Status: Designate
        This module explores the theories and principles that guide ethical decision-making in healthcare, public health, health policy and biomedical research. The focus is on how ethical principles and theories can be applied to health issues such as reproduction and infertility, gene therapy and genetic testing, HIV testing and treatment, vaccination, stem cell therapies, therapeutic and reproductive cloning and organ transplantation. The module covers the ethical, legal and social issues that arise in the context of biomedical research, public health, health promotion, health policy, the delivery of health care and the provision of health services.
      • Module code: SLS3007
        Status: Designate
        The purpose of this module is to enable the student to take an interdisciplinary perspective on the causes, consequences and management of chronic conditions and disease.
      • Module code: SLS3008
        Status: Designate
        This module aims to develop professional skills needed to explore the relationship between nutritional content of food and its availability, utilisation, and impact in an active body. Upon completion of the prerequisites and Learning Objectives of this module, students should be able to autonomously investigate the scientific literature enabling the independent application of an understanding of the known nutrients to the attainment of performance goals.
      • Module code: SLS3016
        Status: Designate
        The aim of this module is build on previous learning in global health, public health and epidemiology and to explore more complex issues in public health. Students will explore current topics and empirical research in public health and will evaluate evidence from a range of credible sources. Students will learn to appraise public health policies and to critically evaluate the efficiency and efficacy of public health interventions.
      • Module code: SLS4008
        Status: Compulsory
        The purpose of this module is to enable the student to undertake independent research in a chosen field of health.
      • Module code: SPO3009
        Status: Designate
        The purpose of this module is to build upon and further develop knowledge of previous modules (SPO1024, SPO2058) concerning the role of exercise in the development and maintenance of physical and mental health. With growing evidence that exercise participation can have psychological benefits on an individual's health and general wellbeing, the opportunities for careers in health promotion and exercise settings are greater than ever. This module will enable students to develop their understanding of the practical application of psychological theory for physical activity promotion in general and specific populations. It will also enable students to consider a variety of strategies and intervention designs appropriate to specific, targetted groups for the improvement of physical activity levels in relation to good health across the lifespan.
      • Module code: SPO3043
        Status: Designate
        The purpose of the module is to develop a critical understanding of the significance and importance of physical activity practices, research and policies within contemporary society. Specifically, the module explores the credibility of various claims made about the contribution of physical activity participation to public health and wellbeing within the context of the available evidence and lived experiences.
  • A typical offer for a BSc degree in Health Sciences would be around:

    • BCC at A Level or,
    • DMM at BTEC/Cambridge Technical or,
    • Pass (C and above) at T Level

    The University of Northampton welcomes international applicants and applications from students with a range of non-traditional educational or professional qualifications, and also applications from students with a mix of A levels and BTEC/Cambridge Technical qualifications.

    For more information on how to make an application, please visit our How to Apply page.

    If you are an International student and would like information on making an application, please see our How to Apply page.

    Integrated Foundation Year (IFY) Entry Requirements

    Admission to this foundation course is normally:

    • DEE at A Level or,
    • MPP at BTEC or,
    • Pass (D or E) at T Level

    However, we would also like to hear from you if you have professional or industry experience instead, a range of other qualifications or self-developed subject knowledge that relates to the course you wish to study.

    English Language Requirements

    All International and EU students applying for a course with us must meet the following minimum English language requirements:

    • IELTS 6.0 (or equivalent) with a minimum of 5.5 in all bands
      for study at undergraduate level

    For information regarding English language requirements at the University, please see our IELTS page.

  • 2024/25 Tuition Fees

    Fees quoted relate to study in the Academic Year 24/25 only and may be subject to inflationary increases in future years.

    • UK – Full Time: £9,250
    • UK – Part Time: £1,540 per 20 credit module
    • UK – Integrated Foundation Year:  £9,250
    • International – Full Time: £15,200
    • International – Integrated Foundation Year: £15,200
    Additional costs

    There are currently no additional costs for this BSc Health Science course. Should this change, applicants and students will be contacted by the university with details of the costs.

    2023/24 Tuition Fees

    Fees quoted relate to study in the Academic Year 23/24 only and may be subject to inflationary increases in future years.

    • UK – Full Time: £9,250
    • UK – Part Time: £1,540 per 20 credit module
    • UK – Integrated Foundation Year:  £9,250
    • International – Full Time: £14,750
    • International – Integrated Foundation Year: £14,750
    Additional costs

    There are currently no additional costs for this course. Should this change, applicants and students will be contacted by the university with details of the costs.

    Scholarships and Bursaries

    For information on the scholarships available to you, please see our scholarships page.

  • At the University of Northampton, everything we do, from funded trips to paid internships, is to give you everything you need to make a difference when you leave.

    If you join our full time BSc Health Sciences degree at Northampton, you will receive a laptop when your course begins*. The laptops are built to a bespoke custom specification ideal for use in the seminar room, collaborative group work or studying at home.

    Whatever your ambitions, we’re here to help you to achieve them. We’ll support you to identify the skills you’re learning during your health sciences course, find your strengths and secure practical experience so that when it comes to applying for jobs or further study in Health Sciences you’ll feel confident in standing out from the crowd. We’ve created the Northampton Employment Promise because we are so confident that if you focus on your studies and complete one of our awards you’ll be highly employable by the time you graduate. Putting you in a great position to secure employment or continue your studies.

    To check out the full list of perks, visit our Student Perks page or dedicated International Perks page.

    *UK fee payers only (see Terms and Conditions for further details).

  • The Integrated Foundation Year (IFY) offers a new and exciting route into studying for a degree at the University of Northampton, attracting ambitious and driven students who are willing to learn and advance.

    If you have non-standard qualifications or do not quite meet the admissions requirements we can offer you a fantastic opportunity to study a four year programme which includes an Integrated Foundation Year. The Integrated Foundation Year will help you develop the theoretical/practical and academic skills you need, in order to successfully progress to the full award.

    Our four-year courses will enable you to successfully follow the degree pathway of your choice while gaining essential study skills. The foundation year of your chosen degree will be studied on a full-time basis and is aimed at supporting the transition to higher education. Years two, three and four are then studied as a standard degree programme.

  • How will I be taught on the BSc Health Sciences degree?

    Students will be taught using a range of teaching methods and styles including lectures, seminars, and technology enhanced interactive activities. In all modules, the emphasis is on active blended learning, student participation and student engagement.

    How will I be assessed on the Health Sciences course?

    Students will be assessed using a variety of of assessment strategies including essays, reports, presentations, posters and exams. In all modules, at all levels, the assessment is aligned with the learning outcomes.

    In the final year of the Health Sciences degree, students complete a dissertation on a health topic of their choice. This is an independent research project completed with support, guidance and supervision from academic staff.

    Are there any specialist facilities and features?
    • The BSc Health Sciences programme is delivered by a dedicated multidisciplinary team with expertise in the areas of sociology, psychology, physiology, biology, nutrition and ethics.
    • We adopt the philosophy that health and illness are socially and psychologically, as well as ethically, constructed.
    • The University of Northampton’s teaching and research facilities enable all of our students to learn their skills in a supportive environment.
    • Our Additional Student Support and Inclusion Services Team (ASSIST) works with students with disabilities to help achieve their full potential and to promote equal opportunities.
    • Library and Learning Development support available.
    • Careers and employability advice and guidance.

Careers and Employability


The University of Northampton offers an innovative approach to enhancing the employability of our BSc Health Sciences graduates. Through our Health Sciences course, we help develop your awareness of your subject-specific skills, transferable skills and provide you with a reflective approach to learning. Our course includes career planning aspects and opportunities which will allow you to develop an awareness of both subject-specific and transferable skills. We are confident that this experience gives our graduates an advantage when applying for employment or master’s training.

Graduates in our Health Sciences BSc degree will have the knowledge, skills and competency to work in diverse roles such as working for the National Health Service, Public Health and Public Health England, health promotion, health journalism, the pharmaceutical sector, and education. Many graduates are likely to progress onto higher research degrees such as a Masters degree or further specialist degrees such as a Postgraduate Certificate in Education.