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.

The Access to HE Diploma (Social Science) is delivered through a blended learning model, combining both in-person and online teaching. This flexible approach supports adult learners in balancing their studies with other commitments.
• Attendance: 3 days per week
• Duration: 1 academic year
• College Hours: 9:15 AM – 4:30 PM
Students will attend scheduled lessons on campus and participate in structured online learning activities, ensuring a comprehensive and supportive educational experience.

Course Fees and Funding
• Course Fee: £3,022
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.

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

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

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

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
- 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.

Apply online by completing the application form. The admissions team will contact you to invite you to an online interview. You will be required to complete an interview task prior to attending the interview, and to provide copies of your GCSE English language and Maths certificates.

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 Level 3 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 https://www.ucas.com/