Access to Social Sciences Diploma

The Access to Higher Education Diploma (Social Sciences) programme is designed for adult learners (19+) who may not have the traditional qualifications normally required for higher education and wish to progress to a social sciences university qualification. Access courses last for one year (September to July), generally over three days a week.

What will I learn?

It contains three mandatory modules: Sociology, Psychology and Criminology. Full details of the programme are contained in the handbook and module guide.

For more information, please consult our course handbook.

How will I be assessed?

There are a wide range of assessment approaches including written assignments, essays, reports, timed classwork, examinations, practical work, group discussion and presentations. These approaches support students to prepare effectively for university as well as enabling them to achieve to the best of their abilities.

What may it lead to?

Higher education progression can include any subject from the social sciences. Progression is also possible to our HND Public Services and BA (Hons) Public Services programmes, both awarded by the University of Kent.

Entry requirements

All applicants for the College’s Access to Higher Education Social Sciences / Nursing and Healthcare Professions / Combined Sciences Diploma are required to have a GCSE in English and Maths at grade C/4 or above.

We accept applications from students who are currently studying for these GCSEs and will be taking their examinations in June before the Access course commences. All applicants are required to attend an interview, and to complete a short written task beforehand. If you do not have the GCSE entry criteria, please consider applying for our Access-GCSE English and/or Maths programmes.

Additional information & other costs

This course is validated and certificated by Laser Learning Awards. This course is approximately 14.5 hours over three days a week and is dependent on modules completed. There may be additional costs for trips. This course is eligible for a 19+ Advanced Learner Loan.

Please note: Anyone over the age of 18 needs to be fully vaccinated by 11/11/21 to undertake work experience or work in the sector unless they are medically exempt. This is a legislative requirement. Students who do not have a medical exemption and who are not willing to be vaccinated will not be able to complete their course or work in the sector.