From Foundation Year to a Masters degree, Alex's Health & Social Care journey

From a Foundation Year in Health & Social Care to an MSc in Occupational Therapy, Alex has undertaken a comprehensive academic journey at the University of Central Lancashire. This has helped her discover her dream career.

Alex’s journey began with our Foundation Year in Health and Social Care. This initial step allowed her to advance to our two-year Health and Social Care FdA. This was followed by the Health and Social Care (Top-Up) course, where she achieved a BSc Hons. She is now furthering her career by pursuing a master’s degree in Occupational Therapy.

The University of Central Lancashire is close to Alex's hometown, and when her cohort continued to Preston to complete the top-up, she decided to join them. "At the end of my foundation year, I wasn’t entirely sure which pathway I wanted to take with my career, so I continued my studies in Health and Social Care to explore my options. Each step of the journey, from the foundation degree to the BSc, helped me gain more qualifications and a deeper understanding of the field. This allowed me to better inform myself about the direction I want to take after my studies. The degree served as a great stepping stone, opening up more options in areas like occupational therapy, nursing, social work, and beyond".

Alex Abbott, MSc Occupational Therapy Student
Alex Abbott, MSc Occupational Therapy Student

"The tutors were all approachable and happy to provide advice, helping me to identify areas for improvement through assignment feedback and drafts."

Alex Abbott MSc Occupational Therapy Student

Looking back on her university experience so far, Alex describes it as "busy, hectic, but achievable." Her advice to future students is straightforward: "If you know exactly what you want to pursue, go for it. But if, like me, you're unsure about the path you want to take, ease yourself in, stay dedicated, and don't be afraid to ask lots of questions."

After completing her MSc in Occupational Therapy, Alex plans to begin her career as an occupational therapist. She feels that her journey at the University of Central Lancashire has been key in uncovering her passion within the field and guiding her towards her dream career.