Access to Higher Education – Science (19+)
Qualification Gained: ASCENTIS Access to HE Diploma (Science)
Study LevelLevel 3 Course TypeAccess to Higher Education Duration1 Academic Year Start DateSeptember 2025 Study ModeFull-time LocationDavid Hockney BuildingOverview
Passionate about science and ready to take the next step towards university? The Access to Higher Education Diploma in Science is your route into a wide range of exciting careers in the medical and scientific fields. This highly popular course is designed for adults aged 19+ who want to progress into science-related degrees and professions. Whether you’re interested in biomedical sciences, pharmacology, radiography, optometry, or nutrition and food science, this course provides the essential foundation in both biology and chemistry to get you started.
Ideal for those who already have a strong interest in science, this diploma allows you to explore the full range of scientific careers including many roles within hospital and clinical settings that don’t involve working on a ward. From lab work to medical imaging, you’ll gain insight into the diverse opportunities available across the healthcare and science sectors.
You will study key scientific topics such as:
• Cell biology, human physiology, and biomolecules
• Pharmacology and biomedical applications
• Inorganic and organic chemistry
• The mathematical principles behind scientific formulas and experiments
Key Info
You should also expect to work with others and independently, meet deadlines and complete work to a high standard. In addition to the skills gained in Biology/Chemistry, you will also develop skills in independent research, critical thinking and evaluative skills, study skills, interview skills and interpersonal skills. You will develop the necessary skills to progress into further education, which can include university.
Biology/Chemistry Pathway:
- Introduction to Cell Biology
- Biomolecules and Key Biochemical Principles
- Cardiovascular, Respiratory and Gastro-intestinal Systems
- Homeostatis, Co-ordination and Control and the Excretory System
- Practical Investigation (Biology)
- Pharmacology
- Introduction to Chemistry
- Practical Inorganic Chemistry
- Core Principles of Chemistry
- Further Inorganic Chemistry
- Further Physical Chemistry
- Core Organic Chemistry
- Preparing to Progress
- Developing Skills for Studying
- ICT – Presentation Software
Entry to this course requires GCSE English Language, Maths and Double Science at a grade 4 or C. Some Universities may not require a Science GCSE but require 12 credits at a distinction on this Access course.
You are at least 19 years old on 1st September.
It is your responsibility to check that your Mathematics and English Language qualifications are accepted for the Higher Education Institution course you wish to eventually apply for. When applying to join an Access to HE course, please state on the application form which Science pathway you require.
Induction for this course will begin at the start of September.
Assessment on Access programmes involves a range of methods such as essays, presentations, reports, laboratory practicals and research investigations. You will have a combination of 15 ungraded and 45 graded units. For the graded units, you will be graded at Pass, Merit or Distinction.
The Access to Higher Education – Science course acts as your direct progression route from Level 3 study to degree level study at University in Science-related subjects. It’s ideal for progression to degrees in:
- Biomedical Sciences
- Pharmacology
- Physiotherapy
- Radiography
- Human Nutrition
- Genetics
- Chemical Engineering, Chemistry, and more
FE Tuition: £3,384.00 per academic year
Other Costs: If eligible, you could take out an Advanced Learner Loan to cover the cost of your Access to HE Diploma. This loan will be written off if you go on to successfully complete a degree course.
This is representative of the most common fees scenario, but actual fees can vary depending on a number of factors. Please contact us if you need more guidance.
If you have any questions or require any additional information, please contact [email protected]
Disclaimer: Our prospectus, college documents and website are simply here to offer a guide. We accept no liability for any inaccurate statements and are not responsible for any negative outcomes if you rely on an inaccurate statement. We reserve the right to withdraw any programmes or service at any time.
