Science Access to Higher Education Diploma

On the Access to Higher Education Science pathway you will study Chemistry, Human Biology and Psychology. You will gain scientific knowledge of a wide range of areas including: the main body system; cell division and genetics; the nervous system; disease and immunity. Your Psychology studies will look at human behaviour and let you experience and explore various theories and methods. 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 Science pathway if required.

The Science Pathway involves studying Chemistry, Human Biology and Psychology. Chemistry provides a general introduction to the three classical branches - physical, inorganic and organic chemistry. Human Biology starts with a general overview of the main body systems, followed by the studying of cell division and genetics, reproductive and nervous systems and homeostatic mechanism regulated by the endocrine system. You will also examine some of the theories and methods in Psychology and explore human behaviour. In addition to subject knowledge the course can help boost your communication and study skills. 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.

Your studying will involve a combination of lectures, seminars, workshops, tutorials, research projects, and laboratory practicals. In the case of Psychology credits are gained for a variety of tasks such as essays, reports, oral presentations and timed assessments. Assessment is via a combination of exams (approximately 30%) and coursework (approximately 70%).

As well as developing subject knowledge within each pathway you will improve your communication, personal and study skills. There will also be the opportunity to gain nationally recognised Level 2 qualifications in numeracy and literacy. 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. You will need 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 chemistry, biological sciences, cybernetics, zoology, physiotherapy and forensic science.