Access to HE Diploma Level 3: Science

General information

This is a one-year course for adults who are returning to education, intending to continue on to university to study on science-based HE programmes, such as biological science, nutrition, chemistry, physics, and radiology. It is also appropriate for students wishing to study paramedic science and podiatry. It is therefore essential that you are 100% committed to attending full-time and that you have an ability to study at Advanced (A) Level.

Course content

To achieve the Access to Science Diploma, students must achieve a minimum of 60 credits, 45 of which must be achieved at Level 3 (most units have a credit value of 3). The Diploma includes core maths, English and study skills but also includes biology, chemistry, physics and information technology units.

Teaching and assessment

The course is assessed through a combination of written assignments, exams and project work. Students build a course work ‘portfolio’ which is submitted to the external moderators early in the summer. Much of the course work is delivered through tutor lectures. Students should allow roughly 10 hours per week for self-study and homework.

Entry requirements

To apply for this course, you should be 19 years of age or older and have a genuine commitment to full-time study. Although no formal qualifications are required, you must achieve Level 2 in your numeracy and Level 2 in your literacy admission tests and you will also be required to produce a piece of Level 3 standard 'free writing.' All students are interviewed.

Additional course costs

Registration fee £100.

Progression

Most students completinig an Access to HE Diploma go on to study at university.

Dates and times

Three days a week for one year. Courses generally run between 9am and 4pm. Timetables will be issued during the course induction.