Description:
Access to Higher Education Diplomas are designed for people who would like to study at a degree level but currently do not have the necessary qualifications to apply but who do have life experience and a willingness to learn.
Access to HE diplomas are intensive courses offered over a single year on a part-time basis as an alternative way to university for people who have not had the opportunity to achieve the entry requirements necessary during their earlier education.
The Health Professionals Diploma supports students to progress onto various degrees, including but not limited to; nursing (adult, children or mental health), midwifery, social work, paramedic science, psychology, ODP and education.
The Science Diploma enables students to progress onto various degrees, including, but not limited to, midwifery, nursing, occupational therapy, veterinary science, dentistry, radiography, biochemistry, biology, forensic science, marine biology and biomedical science.
Depending on the Diploma chosen, the course contains several different units, including academic study skills, human biology, chemistry, psychology, sociology and health.
The workload on the Access to HE course is high, and it is essential learners are fully prepared for this intense way to study. During the course, you will be supported to apply for a higher education course at universities, through UCAS, or directly with the course provider, as is the case with Colleges offering degrees. This process will begin on the first day of your course.
Study Type:
Course Area:
3544
1 Years
You will be assessed through a variety of methods, including essays, reports, practicals and presentations. There will also be the opportunity to undertake a research project.
All applicants will require a GCSE Grade C or 4 and above in English or Maths and Science, and a knowledge of the universities and courses they would like to progress to.
Some universities will accept functional skills in English and Maths, so depending on your university or course this may be acceptable. There may be the opportunity to study English or Maths alongside this course.
Students looking to study degrees in any health, social care or education subject will require experience in a relevant area (either through work or volunteering).
Students can fund an Access to Higher Education course through an Advanced Learner Loan. Individuals who have previously applied for a loan but have not completed the course should check their eligibility for additional financial support before enrolling on this course.
On successful completion of the Access to Higher Education diploma (Health Professionals), students can progress to university to study degrees in Adult Nursing, Midwifery, Operating Department Practitioner, Mental Health Nursing, Psychology, Psychology with Criminology, Teaching, Social Work, Occupational Therapy, Dietetics and Nutrition, Dental Nursing and Paramedic Science.
Availability & Enrolment:
Will I have to pay fees?
School Leavers under the age of 19 do not have to pay fees on any full time courses, though may have to pay for their second year if turning 19 during their studies.
If you’re aged 19 or over you might qualify for an Advanced Learner Loan. It’s easy to apply for and you won’t have to pay anything back until you’re earning over £25,000. Find more information on Advanced Learner Loans on our website.
If you are studying a part-time course and you receive one of the following benefits, or you depend financially on someone who does, you may be entitled to have your tuition fees waived:
- Universal Credit
- Income Support
You will, however, have to pay any awarding body/assessment fees (unless you are on a first full level 2 course).
* If you are in receipt of Working Tax Credit or receive other allowances, you may be eligible to claim concessionary rates. If you are entitled to a fee concession you will be asked to provide proof of your entitlement.
It is essential that you inform us if your entitlement changes at any time during your course.
For any questions about fees, remissions and entitlements, please contact our helpful Careers Team on 01329 815 200.