Access to Higher Education (HE) - Health Science Professions.

• Overview

  You must be aged 19 years or over by 31 August in the year the course starts.

  The diploma is a 12-month full-time intensive programme which is recognised by universities as an alternative to A levels for entry to many degree courses.

  The course will be a mix of theory and practical science to support learning. Practical science will be delivered in our brand new, state-of-the-art science laboratory.

  Funding for Access to HE courses is available via student loans. For those of you who progress to university and pass your degree, the loan cost of the Access HE Diploma will be written off. Further information on this can be provided at the interview.

  More about STEM

• Who is this course for?

  This diploma is the ideal choice for learners who are interested in a career in the health sciences, a rewarding profession that gives you the chance to promote good health and improve the wellbeing of others.

• Entry Requirements

  You must be 19 years of age by 31 August in the year the course starts.

  It is essential that you will have attained GCSE in English and maths or Functional skills Level 2, prior to entry on the Access course as these subjects are often required for degree-level courses. If necessary, you may be able to study one GCSE or a level 2 qualification alongside your diploma.

  Some universities will accept an alternative to GCSE (you must check this with your choices). Professional qualifications will also be considered. Students who do not meet the requirements for the Level 3 Access courses can be enrolled on our one year Level 2 certificate in preparation for progression onto the Level 3 access course

• Assessment Types

  Assessment will take place throughout the course. There are no end of year controlled assessments.

• Units/Modules

  Learners studying this diploma will have the opportunity to expand their knowledge and practical skills through a range of subject areas including:

  • Cell Biology
  • Infection and Immunity
  • Diagnosis of Physiological Conditions
  • Psychology
  • Social Policy and The British Welfare State
  • Control and Coordination
  • Alternative and Complementary Therapies
  • Academic Writing Skills
  • Presentation Skills
  • Reflective Practice

• Benefits/Skills

  You will develop the academic skills, knowledge and understanding to enable you to progress to university and pursue a professional career of your choice.

• Careers/Progression

  Successful completion of this diploma will open doors to a number of university courses, giving learners the chance to study a broad array of degrees leading to careers in:

  • Nursing
  • Midwifery
  • Physiotherapy
  • Radiography
  • Paramedic science
  • Pharmacy
  • Occupational therapy
  • Many others...

• Success Stories

  Chris’ journey

  My Journey started in September 2020 by doing this access course at Keighley College. I am currently studying adult nursing at Bradford and going into my second year. My first day on the access course was a point where I was a little bit scared. I went into the classroom and thought ‘How am I going to learn and achieve this when I haven’t studied in over twenty years?’.

  Completing the access course has put me in really good stead for university. I feel I had a lot of support at college, especially the library services and teachers on the access course. Any concerns you had, they were fantastic.

  The access course opens so many doors to university that you can go into many different professions. It’s amazing and it’s the best thing I’ve ever done.

• Did you know?

  • 85% of our Access students remain in part time employment while studying with us.
  • 99% of our Access students fund their studies through an Advanced Learner Loan.
  • Our Access students range between the ages of 19 and 50 years old.