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# Access to Higher Education

Your Fast-Track Route to University

If you wish to study at university and either lack the necessary entry qualifications or feel you need to develop confidence in your study methods, our Access to Higher Education programmes are for you. 

 

Access to HE programmes provide nationally recognised qualifications that are an alternative to the traditional A-Level route of getting into university.

 

We offer ongoing support and advice throughout your programme, including specific learning pathways that will develop the key critical skills of research, essay writing and communication. The flexible style of study is also ideally suited to adults leading busy lives.

Why choose an Access to HE Course?

  • What is an Access to Higher Education (HE) course?

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    Access to HE courses prepare adults for study at university level.

     

    Courses are designed, in particular, for people who have been out of education for some time, especially those who left school with too few qualifications to be able to go straight to university.

     

    Access to HE courses provide a good foundation in the knowledge and skills required for studying at university level, so that students are confident and well prepared when they go on to higher education. In order to use the title ‘Access to HE’ a course must be recognised by the Quality Assurance Agency for Higher Education (QAA).

  • What does an Access to HE Diploma involve?

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    An Access to HE Diploma course involves completing a certain set of units of study which are relevant to the overall Diploma subject.

    The whole package of units is designed to equip students for university level study in that subject or subject area.

    The detail of course content on individual courses depends on the subject of the Diploma, but all courses require study of relevant academic subject(s) at university entry level give students the opportunity to learn how to approach study at university level and develop techniques to help them to be successful students.

  • Do you have various Access to HE subjects?

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    Yes.

    Courses leading to the Access to HE Diploma are available in many different subjects, providing a preparation for a wide range of university programmes.

    Nursing & Midwifery

Hear what our students have to say

    • Access prepared me massively for my degree; it gave me a real insight into lectures and academic writing. My tutors anticipated what I’d be learning at university, so they taught me accordingly. In many ways, I was more prepared than if I’d done A-Levels.

      Fern Templeman - Access to HE Diploma in Nursing

    • I’m completing the Access Course with the help of the Advanced Learner Loan. It’s been a big weight off my shoulders that I’ve been able to complete my studies to further my career, without worrying about paying for the course straight away. The teachers are the best thing about the College. They’re really helpful and genuinely care about helping all the students further their education and be the best they can be. I’m going to continue my studies and complete my Level 4 and 5 qualifications, then hope to get a job which involves coding computer systems in cars.

      Lee Holloway – Access to HE Diploma in Computing

    • The Access Course has been a brilliant way to prepare me for the next step of applying to University. The course is very intensive, but I’ve enjoyed developing my creative abilities and digital design skills. I’m currently applying for a Textiles and Surface Design course at University and hope to one day start my own business as a fabric designer.

      Nikki Emmet – Access to HE Diploma in Art and Design

    • After working as a teaching assistant for five years, I decided to take the plunge and start training to become a teacher. The course is split into three main areas – Psychology, Education and English. This has given me a good overview of the different skills I’ll need when working as a teacher. I’ve just accepted an offer to go to the University of Bolton to do my Early Years and Childhood Studies. I can’t wait!

      Sophie Roberts – Access to HE Diploma in Teaching

    • Need some financial support?

    Apply for an Advanced Learner Loan today...

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