Access To Higher Education Diploma (Science)

You must be aged 19 or above at enrolment in August. You must have at least one GCSE at grade C or 4 or above in either English Language or Maths, or a Level 2 qualification in Functional Skills. Evidence of this will be required during the application process. Ideally, you will hold both English and Maths qualifications. 

If you currently hold only one of these qualifications, you may be able to work towards the one you do not have while studying for your Access Diploma. This will depend on you being accepted onto a Level 2 course, either GCSE or Functional Skills. 

Many universities require GCSE Maths and English rather than equivalent qualifications. It is your responsibility to check the specific entry requirements of the university or college you wish to progress to.

You will study core science subjects alongside academic study skills, including physics, biology, human physiology, chemistry, and independent research. 

Assessment is through assignments, presentations and internally set examinations, providing a strong foundation for progression into science and healthcare related degree programmes.

This course costs £3384 for 2027 entry. 

You may be entitled to a 19+ Advanced Learner Loan to cover the costs of your Access course. Loan eligibility does not depend on your income and there are no credit checks. Student Finance England, who are responsible for student loans will ‘write off’ any outstanding Advanced Learner Loan balances for your Access to HE course as soon as you complete a higher education course. 

This means you do not have to repay your Advanced Learner Loan if you progress to higher education and complete your degree programme.

You can progress to a wide range of higher education programmes at university or college, including our BA (Hons) Criminology and Forensic Investigation degree programme at University Centre Southend. 

Other common progression routes include veterinary science, paramedic science, physiotherapy, radiography, environmental science, podiatry, and sports science.

1 year

Full Time