Course Overview

The Access to Higher Education Diploma (Health Professions) is designed for adult learners who aspire to study health-related degrees at university but do not yet hold a Level 3 qualification. This course provides a recognised pathway into careers such as:

· Nursing
· Midwifery
· Paramedic Science
· Occupational Therapy
· Physiotherapy
· Other allied health professions

Who is this course for?
This course is ideal for individuals who are returning to education and are committed to pursuing a career in the health sector. It is particularly suited to those who have a passion for caring and supporting others, and who are ready to take the next step towards university-level study.

Preparing for Success
To maximise your chances of gaining university admission, it’s important to have a solid understanding of the caring professions. If you are not currently working in a care-related role, we strongly recommend gaining experience before starting the course. This could include:
· Voluntary work with vulnerable children or adults
· Paid employment in domiciliary care
· Work in residential or nursing homes Such experience not only strengthens your university application but also helps you engage more meaningfully with the course content.

Entry requirements

Entry Requirements To enrol on this course, you must:
· Be aged 19 or over
· Hold a minimum of Grade 4/C or above in GCSE English Language and GCSE Maths o Functional Skills Level 2 may be considered if it supports your progression to higher education or your intended career path

As this is a blended learning programme, you will need to be confident using digital tools and platforms, essential for engaging with online lessons and course materials. Technology Requirements To participate fully in the course, you will need access to:
· A laptop or desktop computer
· A microphone and camera for online sessions A stable Wi-Fi connection

Course Modules

This course is designed to equip students with the essential knowledge, subject-specific expertise, and transferable skills needed for success in health and social care professions, including nursing, midwifery, and allied health roles. Key Knowledge Areas Human Biology Students will explore the structure and function of the human body, gaining a solid foundation in:
· Endocrine, urinary, digestive, musculoskeletal, nervous, respiratory, and cardiovascular systems
· How these systems interact to maintain health and respond to illness

Psychology Learners will develop an understanding of:
· Key psychological perspectives and theories
· Biopsychology and the biological basis of behaviour
· Psychological disorders and their impact on individuals and society

Professional and Ethical Understanding Students will gain insight into:
· Professional behaviours and ethical standards in nursing and health professions
· The importance of multidisciplinary teamwork and collaboration
· Upholding professional values in diverse healthcare settings

Transferable Skills Development Academic Study Techniques
The course supports students in building strong academic foundations through:
· Research and evaluation skills
· Academic writing, reading, and note-making proficiency
· Awareness of tools and strategies for success in higher education

Critical Thinking and Reflective Practice Students will enhance their ability to:
· Analyse health and social care issues and construct reasoned arguments
· Engage in reflective practice to support continuous personal and professional growth
· Apply numeracy skills in health contexts, particularly in nursing practice

This course provides a comprehensive preparation for further study or entry into health-related careers, combining scientific knowledge with practical and ethical understanding.

How will I be assessed?

To achieve the L3 Diploma you will complete assignments for units that total 60 credits on the course.

15 credits are achieved by completing ungraded units, these will develop your academic study skills to prepare you for the graded units and University.

45 credits are achieved by completing graded academic subject units. Credits are awarded Pass, Merit and Distinction grades that will contribute to your overall UCAS points that are important for university applications. To assess your learning and prepare you for Higher education and future careers you will be asked to complete assignment tasks in a variety of formats, these may include
· Essays
· Reports
· Short answer questions
· Academic posters
· Presentations
. Portfolio’s

What can I do next

Typical Progression is into Health Professions by completing
· Undergraduate degrees
· Degree Apprenticeships

Nursing routes include adult, children and mental health. Midwifery Paramedic Science Physiotherapy Occupational Therapy Other allied health professions. You can apply to University by submitting a UCAS application. Each university will have their own entry requirements that may differ in UCAS points, number of distinction grades and additional qualifications such as GCSE English and Maths. Visit the UCAS website to find support on UCAS applications: https://www.ucas.com/