Access to Higher Education

Access to Higher Education courses provide a nationally recognised qualification that is an alternative to the traditional A Level route of getting into University.

Our courses include a range of modules at Level 2 (GCSE equivalent) and Level 3 (A Level equivalent). The flexible programme of study is ideally suited to adults leading busy lives.

Access courses are free if you are aged between 19 and 24 and do not already have a full Level 3 qualification (such as two A Levels or NVQ Level 3). Even if you are over 25, you still might not have to pay for your tuition, although this depends on your previous qualifications.

All Access courses require a pre-course interview, which allows you to meet the tutors, discuss your options and create an individual study plan.

If you want to study either Midwifery or Teaching at University, you will need English and Maths GCSEs (or equivalent) at grade C or above before you can enrol on a Level 3 course at the College. People who wish to study Primary School Teaching will also require GCSE Science. If you do not have these qualifications, they are available at the College.

Access to HE courses are offered in the daytime and evening at our Deane Road Campus. You can study either full-time (approximately 14 hours per week) or, depending on previous qualifications, part time over a year.

Our Access programmes are ideal for learners interested in the following:

Health Professions:
For those considering a career in Midwifery, Nursing, Physiotherapy, or other professions supplementary to medicine.

Humanities and Social Sciences:
For people looking to do a degree in subjects such as English, Psychology, Teaching, Criminology and Sociology, or with a view to becoming Social Workers.

Primary and Secondary Teaching:
For anyone interested in a teaching career in a primary or secondary school.

Biological Sciences:
For anyone considering progressing to degrees in Nutrition, Environmental Health, Human Biology, Biomedical Science and many other subjects.

GCSEs in Maths, English and Science:
GCSE Maths and English are essential qualifications in the workplace and for progression to many higher education courses. GCSE Science is required by anyone who wants to become a Primary School Teacher.