Top 5 Career Paths After a Postgraduate Certificate in Health Science

Are you dreaming of a career in healthcare but don’t have a science degree? You're not alone. Many people feel drawn to meaningful, person-centred careers like Physiotherapy, Speech and Language Therapy, Occupational Therapy, or Dietetics, but assume it’s too late to make a change.

That’s where a Postgraduate Certificate (PG Cert) in Health Science from Portobello Institute can make all the difference.

Designed specifically for those without a prior background in health or science, this course provides the foundational knowledge and academic preparation needed to progress into master’s programmes in a range of allied health professions.

Here are five exciting health careers that could start with this certificate – and what makes this course a unique gateway to them.

1. Physiotherapy (MSc Route)

Physiotherapists help people restore movement and function after injury, illness or disability. It’s a hands-on, science-led profession requiring postgraduate-level training.

How this course helps:
The PG Cert in Health Science equips you with essential knowledge in anatomy, physiology and health systems – helping meet entry requirements for MSc Physiotherapy programmes in the UK and Ireland.

Who it’s ideal for:
Those from sports coaching, personal training, or care backgrounds who want to take the next academic step into clinical practice.

2. Speech and Language Therapy

Speech and Language Therapists (SLTs) work with people of all ages who experience difficulties with communication, speech or swallowing – making a profound impact on quality of life.

How this course helps:
With no prior science degree required, the PG Cert provides the scientific literacy and health context needed for successful entry into a master's in SLT.

Who it’s ideal for:
People from education, childcare, linguistics or social care backgrounds who want to retrain for a clinical role.

3. Occupational Therapy

Occupational Therapists support people to live independently and meaningfully despite illness, disability or age-related challenges. It’s a creative and client-focused profession that requires a postgraduate qualification.

How this course helps:
By grounding you in health science fundamentals, this PG Cert allows you to meet the academic entry criteria for OT master’s programmes, even without a science degree.

Who it’s ideal for:
Those from social work, psychology, teaching or healthcare support roles who want to build a new career helping others thrive.

4. Dietetics/Nutrition

Dieticians are qualified healthcare professionals who use nutrition to support health and manage medical conditions. Entry into MSc Dietetics programmes typically requires a strong science foundation.

How this course helps:
This certificate offers the life sciences and health systems knowledge needed to bridge into further dietetics study, particularly in postgraduate entry routes.

Who it’s ideal for:
People passionate about food and wellbeing, including those from culinary, hospitality, fitness or wellness industries.

5. Other Allied Health & Clinical Study Routes

In addition to the core clinical areas above, this PG Cert may open doors to further study in:

• Public Health
• Health Psychology
• Rehabilitation Science
• Advanced Nursing Practice
• Health Education & Promotion

It’s also valuable preparation for those pursuing roles in clinical research.

Why Choose Portobello Institute?

• No prior science degree needed
• Designed to meet academic requirements for master’s progression
• Delivered by experts with real-world experience
• Flexible online study to fit around your life
• Dedicated academic support throughout your journey

Whether you're returning to education after a break or changing career direction entirely, this course is designed to help you build confidence, develop essential skills, and open the door to professional healthcare training.

Take the First Step Toward a Healthcare Career

There’s no single path into a healthcare career – and it’s never too late to start. If you’re passionate about making a difference and want to move into a meaningful profession, the PG Cert in Health Science could be your first step toward a master’s and beyond.