Access to Higher Education Diploma

Why choose this course?

We understand that you may have been out of education for a long time, so we'll ease you in gently and provide you with all the support you need
When you've successfully completed this course, you'll have a nationally recognised qualification to apply to university
You'll improve your English and maths (up to GCSE level) and choose two or three other subjects depending on the degree you want to go on to study
Your classes will fit around school holidays, and no classes start before 10am

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Fact file

Start date: September

Course length: full time: one year

Campus: Derby Campus

If you successfully complete this course, you'll gain a nationally recognised Access to Higher Education Diploma. The course consists of English and Maths (at GCSE level) plus Study Skills and two or three main subjects. The subjects you choose will depend on which degree you plan to go on to.

What you will cover

You'll study three core subjects;

English
Maths
Study Skills

In addition to these you'll also take two or three subjects in your chosen pathway;

Access to Science

Biology
Physics*
Chemistry
IT
Environmental Studies
Maths*

Access to Social Science

Sociology plus two from:

Psychology
History
Literature
American Studies
Political Studies
Law

Access to Health Science

Biology plus either

Sociology
Psychology
Health Studies

Access to Business and Computing

Business plus at least one of Computing or IT plus one from:

Psychology
Law
Maths*

Access to Education

Biology
IT
Maths*
History
Psychology
Sociology
Literature
American Studies
Political Studies

*In order to study Physics or Maths at level 3 you must already hold GCSE Maths at C or above.

Entry requirements

There are no formal entry requirements, however, you will need to demonstrate a commitment and ability to study at this level, and take a literacy test before we can offer you a place.

How to apply

You don't need any formal qualifications to apply for this course but you need to be aged 19 or over and you'll need to show that you have some life experience, commitment and ability to use English at GCSE level.

If you're interested in starting an Access Higher Education Diploma course you should come to one of our information events. You'll have the chance to discuss your plans with tutors and careers advisors involved with the programmes as well as collecting your application form.

All applicants are expected to attend an information event and informal interview to secure their place.

Fees and finance

If you are aged between 19-23

You may be exempt from course fees.

If you are aged over 24

You may be eligible for 24+ Advanced Learning Loan to pay your fees

More information will be available at our information events.

Careers and employability

This programme allows you to go on to an undergraduate, foundation degree or diploma course afterwards. It can also lead to a career in the nursing, or health related professions, teaching or social work and many other general and specialist areas.

What our students say

"A brilliant way to get back into studying. The course was very intense but I learned a range of very useful academic skills that successfully prepared me for the degree I am now studying." Paul Glen, now studying the Advanced Diploma in
Nursing Studies (Adult Branch)

Contact details

Course enquiries

Contact name: Val Blundell

Contact phone: 01332 591080

Where will I study?

Derby Campus