Course Overview

Why do we behave the way we do? What makes us happy, jealous, angry or sad? Are we truly free—or shaped by society, government, and the media?

What are your legal rights and responsibilities?
The Access to HE Diploma (Social Science) invites you to explore these thought-provoking questions and more. Through subjects such as criminology, sociology, law, health studies, and psychology, you’ll gain a deeper understanding of human behaviour and the structures that shape our lives.

Social Science is a fascinating and versatile field, especially suited to those considering careers that involve working with people. Whether you’re interested in Social Work, Community Outreach, Policing, Youth Work, Law, Teaching, or roles within charities and support services, this course provides a strong foundation for university-level study. Would you like to become a Psychologist or a Criminologist? This diploma could be your first step.

Who is this course for?
This course is ideal for adults returning to education who are committed to pursuing careers in:
- Social Work
- Law and Legal Services
- Youth and Support Work
- Community and Charity Roles
- Teaching and Education

It is particularly suited to those who are curious about human behaviour, passionate about social justice, and motivated to make a positive impact in their communities.

Preparing for Success:
To maximise your chances of gaining university admission, it’s important to have a solid understanding of the social issues and challenges faced by different communities. We recommend gaining experience—either paid or voluntary—in areas such as:
- Working with vulnerable groups
- Community outreach or advocacy
- Legal advice centres or support services
- Youth mentoring or education programmes

This experience will not only strengthen your university application but also enrich your learning throughout the course.

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 or 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 essential subject knowledge, specialist expertise, and transferable academic skills needed for success in social science-related higher education and careers.

Key Knowledge Areas Psychology Students will explore:
- Core psychological perspectives and theories
- Biopsychology and the biological basis of behaviour
- Psychological disorders and their impact on individuals and society

Sociology Topics include
- Introduction to key sociological theories
- The sociology of family, gender, and health

Criminology Learners will examine:
- The nature of crime and deviance
- How crime is measured and represented in the media
- The role and impact of incarceration

Law Key areas covered:
- Access to justice
- Family law
- Legal principles including actus reus and mens rea

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 Social Sciences by completing · Undergraduate degrees · Degree Apprenticeships

Possible Future Careers:
- Health Care Practice Managers
- Criminologist
- Social Worker
- Youth and Community Worker
- Housing Officer
- Psychologist
- Police Community Support officer
-Police
- Welfare and Housing Officer
- Probation Officer
- Senior Care Worker
- Social and Humanities Scientist
- Prison Service Officer
- Legal Secretary
- Solicitor
- Welfare and Housing Officer
- Barrister
- Judge
- Social Worker

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 application