Foundation Certificate in Health Sciences

Considering a career in healthcare, whether orthodox or complementary, can be daunting for those with no science background and who may not have studied for a number of years. Therefore IHS has developed its Foundation Certificate in Health Sciences to help those wishing to embark on study in the fascinating, but sometimes confusing, world of the health sciences. The course starts at a basic level with the assumption that the student has little, or no, prior experience studying the health sciences. It gradually builds a student’s knowledge and confidence in the essential concepts that are important to understand before starting the IHS Diploma in Nutritional Therapy or other similar programmes in health sciences. It also acknowledges that an ability to research is fundamental to studying any science subject so also guides you step by step in how to find and navigate basic scientific material. This course is a must for those who do not want a lack of previous scientific study to stand in the way of an exciting new area of study and future career.

About the Course

This foundation course, written to UK level 3 (Irish level 4), consists of two e-Learning modules in total and encompasses approximately 2-3 months of part-time study material. The focus is to build confidence and understanding in the areas of human biology and biochemistry for those students with little or no scientific background but whom would like to undertake study on the area of the health sciences. It covers the basic terminology, principles and concepts of those science subjects relevant to those wishing to gain a basic understanding of how the human body works. Students will also be guided through how to research and reference their 3rd level academic work.

Why Choose the Foundation Certificate in Health Sciences?

- Comprehensive and well structured study material supplied. Including written notes, video clips, quizzes and short answer questions and chances to reflect on your knowledge all designed to make the learning experience as interactive as possible

- The IHS commitment to pastoral care and student support. IHS have a dedicated student support officer employed to help struggling students or those with specific learning difficulties. However we also have procedures in place to ensure all students have access to both staff and peer support whilst studying with IHS

- Take the first step to an exciting new study path and career. This course is specially designed for those with no science background wishing to undertake 3rd level study in the health sciences

- Gain confidence and knowledge in the health sciences. Course assumes no prior knowledge and walks you step by step through basic health science subjects

- Flexible study options. Study from the comfort of your own home and at your own pace with the option of attending 1 in-class lecture weekend

- Use this qualification as a foundation onto the IHS Diploma in Nutritional Therapy

What will I study?

Subjects covered include:

- The basic human sciences: Biochemistry, chemistry, human biology, anatomy and physiology, pathophysiology

- Common medical terminology

- The characteristics of living things

- Biochemistry: Atoms, elements, molecules and compounds, ionic and covalent bonding, energy production in the body, the importance of water in the body

- Cellular biology: The components of a cell, movement of substances into and out of cells

- Tissues: Structural organisation in the body, different types of tissues

- The human body and how it works: Control systems, transport systems, structural systems, the protective systems

- Researching and referencing your work: reading a scientific research paper

- The importance of reflection in study and healthcare

How is this course structured?

This is an e-learning course comprising of 2 modules. Structured home study allows you to complete each module in the comfort of your own home and at your own pace. Mutually agreed goals and milestones ensure that you will remain focused while still allowing you flexibility and time to build a solid foundation of scientific understanding. Online forums are provided so that you receive the support that you need whilst studying.

All students are enrolled onto the IHS Learning Management System. Here you will find all course material, forums, quizzes, assessments etc in one place to help you organise your study and study material as efficiently as possible. You will also upload all assessments here and can also use it to communicate directly with module leaders, other members of staff and fellow students.

Entry Requirements

IHS does not have any formal entry requirements for our Foundation Certificate in the Health Sciences. Anybody wishing to take the first steps towards a career in health sciences is very welcome. However, all IHS e-Learning courses require dedication and commitment.

IHS may request that potential students with no science background complete this course (or another similar) prior to enrolment on the IHS Diploma in Nutritional Therapy.

Course Fees
€495 (deductible from first year IHS Diploma in Nutritional Therapy fees)