Psychology Access to Higher Education Diploma

On the Access to Higher Education Psychology pathway you will study Psychology, Human Biology and Sociology. You will be introduced to some of the theories regarding human behaviour and experience, and will explore some of the explanations psychologists make to understand humans and their interactions with the world. You will also conduct an in-depth investigation of human behaviour. A GCSE Maths at grade C or above would be beneficial. However we can offer GCSE Maths as a part of the Access to Higher Education Psychology pathway if required.

Initially you will learn about the history of psychology, the main perspectives, and the debates in psychology. Topics in cognitive, developmental and social psychology will then be covered, as well as individual differences. Finally the subject will focus on research methods where you will undertake an in-depth investigation of human behaviour. You will also study Human Biology and Sociology as supporting subjects. There will also be the opportunity to gain nationally recognised Level 2 qualifications in Adult Numeracy and Literacy. Students who do not possess GCSE Maths grade C or above have the opportunity to gain this qualification.

Teaching will take the form of lectures, discussions, group work and self-directed learning. Credits are gained for a variety of tasks such as quizzes, case studies, essays, research projects, oral presentations and timed assessments. Assessment is via a combination of exams (approximately 30%) and coursework (approximately 70%).

As well as developing subject knowledge you will improve your communication, personal and study skills through a common core programme that also provides one-to-one tutorial support. There is a wide range of support available at the college for students including financial support. You will be assigned a personal tutor who will agree performance targets with you and support you to achieve these targets. Your tutor is also the first port of call for any pastoral issues. Our committed team of staff and careers specialists will also guide and support you with your higher education choices and applications. Almost all our Access students progress to higher education.You will benefit from socialising in an educational environment and working collaboratively on projects. All of this is excellent preparation for higher education.

Students must be aged 19 and over. No specific qualifications are asked for however a GCSE grade C in English or maths would be beneficial. You will be interviewed and have a numeracy and literacy assessment to check your suitability to study at Level 3. At your interview you will need to demonstrate that you have a realistic career goal in mind and the motivation to achieve. Some degrees require that you have some relevant paid or voluntary work experience. Applicants are strongly advised to check degree entry requirements with prospective universities.

Students from this pathway have progressed on to higher education to study psychology, deaf studies, counselling, occupational therapy, human services, sociology, religion and theology.