No A Levels? Get to university in one year
Whether you're returning to education after a break, looking for a career change, or preparing for university study, an Access to HE Diploma provides a recognised route into higher education. You'll develop subject knowledge, academic confidence and the study skills needed to succeed at university and beyond. Choose the pathway that best matches your interests, ambitions and future career goals.
Health Professions
Access to HE Diploma (Health Professions)
Ideal if you want a career in healthcare or related fields, this pathway prepares you for degrees in nursing, midwifery, physiotherapy, and other health-based professions.
What you'll gain:
- Focus on healthcare knowledge and professional practice
- Develop an understanding of roles and responsibilities within the health sector
- Build essential academic and study skills for university-level learning
- Gain the confidence and knowledge needed to progress to higher education
Progression opportunities include:
- Nursing
- Midwifery
- Physiotherapy
- Paramedic Science
- Radiography
- Pharmacy
- Occupational Health and other allied health professions
Josephine Ellmore
Access to Higher Education Diploma (Health Professions)
"I wanted to pursue Midwifery but had trouble finding universities that accepted my Level 3 qualifications. Then I found the Access course, which provided the right qualifications for my career. The course was diverse, covering relevant subjects like Sociology and Physiology, which I initially knew little about but ended up really enjoying. Time management and productivity were key skills I developed, as completing the course in a year was challenging. I stayed motivated by the fascinating content in each module. A highlight was working with the NHS as a healthcare assistant. The course also taught me important academic skills, like referencing and critically analysing information. I’m proud to have graduated with a first-class degree."
Humanities & Social Sciences
Access to HE Diploma (Humanities & Social Sciences)
Perfect if you're interested in subjects such as psychology, sociology, history, law or education, this route opens the door to a wide range of university degrees and career opportunities.
What you'll gain:
- Study a mix of humanities and social science subjects
- Develop critical thinking, research and analytical skills
- Explore topics such as sociology, psychology, history and culture
- Build strong communication and academic skills for university study
Progression opportunities include:
- Psychology
- Sociology
- Criminology
- Education
- History
- English
- Politics
- Social Policy and related fields
Libby Histed
Access to Higher Education (Humanities & Social Sciences)
"After being out of education since the age of 14, I returned as a mature student on an Access to Higher Education Health Studies course, with a long-held ambition to study literature at Oxford University. I later switched to a humanities and English-based Access course to follow this goal. With hard work and the support of my teacher, Julianne Ward, I made strong progress and applied to study literature at several universities in the UK and overseas. I received multiple offers and, with Julianne’s guidance through the application process, secured a place to study English Language and Literature at Oxford University from September 2024."
Not Sure Which Route Is Right for You?
Our Admissions Team is here to help. Get in touch on 01743 653333 to discuss your options and discover which pathway best fits with your interests, aspirations and future plans.