Access to Higher Education Diploma: Healthcare Professions

The Access to HE Diploma is intended to prepare people without traditional entry qualifications for degree level study at university.

It may also be used by people wishing to make a career change or who have been out of formal education for a significant time in order to gain the skills and confidence required for direct progression to employment or further study.

The Access to HE Diploma is regulated by QAA and widely recognised as a progression route by universities across the UK.

Although this diploma focuses on subjects relating to Healthcare Professions, it can be used by you to gain entry onto most University courses. Previous students have gone onto Law, Psychology and Sociology for example.

Description of teaching and assessment methods

All students produce a portfolio of work built throughout the course and formal assessments throughout the year, which may include (dependent on subjects chosen): essays, presentations, coursework, experiment reports, and timed in-class exercises.

Progression routes / leaving destinations

The course prepares you for university and is recognised by all UK universities. The progression routes could include, but are not limited to, degrees in psychology, criminology, sociology, criminal justice, history, English language and literature, social work, teaching, law, anthropology, politics, public services, business studies, international relations, social policy, film studies, media, linguistics, culture, sports psychology, journalism, philosophy, theology, creative writing, art history, counselling, etc

Modular structure

The main subjects you will study as part of the course are Biology, Psychology and Sociology, preparing you for entry onto a degree of your choice. Other subjects and modules are touched upon throughout the year.

Biology - The study of living organisms and their structure, life-cycles, adaptations and environment. This subject will allow you to gain a deeper understanding of the human body and for you to be able to relate to your knowledge in a healthcare environment. This course is taught through practical experiments throughout the year.
Psychology - This is the science of the mind. As the source of all thought and behaviour, the human mind links in closely to Biology and Sociology, but focuses more on mental processes and behaviour, and looks at why people do the things they do.
Sociology - This subject looks at how society functions and is the study of groups, how they form, operate and work together. This subject often highlights areas of social inequality, and the course looks in-depth at social policy and reforms as a reaction to this issue. Areas are discussed from an objective viewpoint, so to allow you to form unbiased and clear judgements.