Access to Higher Education: Science for Health Practitioners

Summary: The broad-based Access programme will qualify you to study for a wide range of nursing or health based degrees.








Course description: The Access to Higher Education Diploma, as validated by CAVA, is a qualification which prepares students aged 19 years and over, without relevant qualifications, for study at degree level.  
The Access programme will qualify you to study a wide range of nursing and other health based degrees including physiotherapy, midwifery, occupational therapy and paramedic science. 
The programme is modular and will involve the study of general biology, with a particular emphasis on practical work. Biology covers the structure and function of the cell, genetics, biochemistry, growth and development and evolution.
You will also basic concepts in chemistry and its relevance to health in the modern world. This will include the basic concepts of the nature of matter and how to manipulate matter in the modern world. This is taught from a strongly practical angle and complements the biology units.
Further units will cover human physiology, research skills, introductory maths for science, general science and a range of applied statistical and data handling techniques to support the science units in the course. In Health studies you will investigate the nature of health and disease and relate to topical health issues.
The Access to Higher Education Diploma is widely recognised by UK universities however we advise that if you are hoping to go on to do a degree course at a specific university, it would be useful to contact them to check that the Diploma you have chosen is in an appropriate subject area and is recognised by the university or college









Entry requirements: This course is suitable for students aged 19 or over.
All applicants must have evidence of achievement in English and Mathematics at GCSE grade C or above. Please note that we are not able to accept Adult Numeracy, Adult Literacy, Key Skills or Functional Skills in lieu of GCSEs. The course does not assume any previous knowledge of the science subjects that are covered.
Selection is by interview to discuss your suitability for the course and whether the course is right for you. As part of this process you will to complete on-line assessments and submit a short piece of writing to check you are at the right level to start the course. Advice can be given about alternative ways forward if necessary.
For acceptance on the Access programme you will need to convince us that you have the determination to succeed and will be able to cope with the work.
Applications from students whose first language is not English are welcome. We require evidence of proficiency in English (including writing, speaking, listening and reading), the required minimum is:

• IELTS (SELT): 6.0 overall (minimum 5.5 in all components)

• Or GCSE English A*-C
International candidates are also actively encouraged to access the International Students webpage. 









Assessment: You will be supported throughout the course by a personal tutor who will also give you guidance in applying for Higher Education courses. All students study a core of communications, research and study skills.
You will be awarded credits on completion of each units with a Pass, Merit or Distinction grade. All credits are awarded are awarded at level 3 which broadly equates to A-level study.
Assessment is continuous over the whole year and is based on a number of set pieces of work such as essays, projects, presentations and tests.









Academic progression: The course has an excellent pass rate and a good success rate in placing people into higher education. Many students choose to continue their studies locally but Access students also move to other areas of the country. 









Career progression: You may use your qualification to gain employment in a scientific environment such as a medical laboratory, or in a health related profession such as nursing.









Costs: Please contact the Advice Shop  for information on fees and financial support which may be available. We recommend you also check our Finance pages for further information including student travel offers.