Course Overview

Have you ever wondered how the world around us works? Does biology determine the way we behave? If you find yourself asking these questions, then you are already thinking like a scientist. With our Access to Higher Education Diploma (Science), you will be on your way to a Degree in Science or a health profession such as dietetics, physiotherapy, radiography or microbiology.

Taught at our Redditch and Worcester campuses, you will study from a range of modules, including Chemistry, Biology and Physics. Alongside your main programme, you will also learn vital study and career development skills, such as writing skills, time management and presentation techniques.

The duration of this course is 1 year full time or 2 years part time.

The Access to Higher Education courses provided at HoW College are regulated by the Quality Assurance Agency for Higher Education (QAA) and validated by AIM Qualifications and Assessment Group.

The induction for this course is w/c 1st September and the start date is 8th September.

Entry requirements

Ideally you will have either GCSE English or maths at grade 4 (C) or above but alternative qualifications are considered, including our own Access Foundation course. You will also be asked to attend an interview where you will have the opportunity to discuss your options and decide on the most suitable course

Course Modules

- Chemistry
- Biology
- Physics
- Academic Study Skills
- Anatomy and Physiology

How will I be assessed?

You will be assessed on a continuous basis throughout the course through essays, reports, exams and presentations. You will have the opportunity to experience a formal examination setting to help prepare you for exams in higher education.

Course Fees and Funding
Course Fee: £3,384
Some learners may be eligible for full funding, depending on their circumstances:
If you are aged 19–23 and this is your first full Level 3 qualification, the course will be fully funded.
If you live in the West Midlands, additional funding options may be available.
Funding Options
If you are not eligible for full funding, you can choose to:
Self-fund the course
Apply for an Advanced Learner Loan through the Student Finance Company

Key benefits of the Advanced Learner Loan:
No income or credit checks required
Repayments only begin once you earn above a certain threshold
If you progress to university and successfully complete a Higher Education course, your loan will be written off
This makes the Advanced Learner Loan a flexible and accessible option for many adult learners.

What can I do next

You can progress onto a broad range of academic and vocational higher education courses at a Foundation Degree, HND or BSc (Hons) level.

Previous students have successfully progressed onto studies in subjects including Forensic Sciences, Physiotherapy, Radiology and Radiography.

Possible Future Careers:
- Dietitian
- Forensic Scientist
- Chemist
- Physiotherapist,
- Radiologist
- Radiotherapist
- Scientist
- Environmental Health Professional
- Science, Engineering and Production Technicians
- Pharmaceutical Technician
- Conservation Professional
- Pharmacist

Our 2023 cohort have progressed to HE studying: Diagnostic Radiography, Veterinary Science, Human Neuroscience and Navigation and Maritime Science