The Department of Health Studies at Royal Holloway, University of London has launched a new Diploma in Higher Education in Health Studies, welcoming its first students in September 2025.
The Diploma in Health Studies is designed with employability embedded throughout the course to develop relevant knowledge, experience and practical skills that are ideal preparation to become an Assistant Practitioner in the NHS, social care and other health service providers.
The two-year diploma course is an IfATE approved Level 5 Higher Technical Qualification with a special emphasis on challenge-led placement opportunities in each year. These placements will provide vital first-hand experience to develop relevant real-world knowledge and skills in preparation for employment in the NHS, government health sector, social care as well as NGOs and charities.
The new course promotes a multidisciplinary approach to address contemporary issues around population health from a human and environmental perspective. Students will study as part of the close community of Health Studies students and staff, and benefit from stimulating, research-informed teaching, with strong links to local and international practice and research networks.
On successful completion of the course, students will be well equipped to deliver ethical, evidence-based care and go on to a rewarding profession as an Assistant Practitioner or other roles in the health sector. They can also choose to progress to the BSc Health Studies undergraduate course at Royal Holloway, entering the degree in year 3 and building their Public Health portfolio.
The Institute for Apprenticeships and Technical Education (IfATE) has approved this course under its employer-led approvals process for Higher Technical Qualifications. The employability focus is mapped to the Occupational Duties of the Institute for Apprenticeships, Planetary Health Education Framework, Sustainable Development Goals (SDG’s), Meta-Skills 4.0 and the standards for public health to provide a variety of options for future development.
Find out more about the course and how to apply here: DipHE Health Studies
