Course Overview
This is a nationally recognised course and students who undertake this pathway then proceed to take degree courses in areas such as dietetics, pharmacy, optometry, radiography, physiotherapy, biochemistry, and zoology. Different combinations of units are available for students wishing to progress in particular career pathways. Students are guided on the most appropriate units to take, as well as being supported with their applications to HE and for relevant work experience. The College has close links with regional universities which welcome mature students from the Access to HE course.
The course is intensive and students should realise that it makes substantial demands in terms of time, commitment and study.
Attendance to all lessons is essential on the one day a week on which you are timetabled for lessons in College, therefore it is advisable to ensure work commitments can fit around the timetabled sessions.
Study will involve presentations, practical activities, written assignments, and discussions.
What You Will Study
Whilst on this course you will study a range of different units, including:
Biology
- Endocrine System
- Nutrition & Digestion
- Nervous system
- Human Circulation & Gas Exchange
- Human Musculoskeletal Systems
- DNA & Protein Synthesis
- Genetic Inheritance
- Cell Biology
- Photosynthesis
- Fundamentals of Biological Systems
Chemistry
- Organic Concepts & Hydrocarbons
- Moles, Equations & Acids
- Chemistry of Drugs & Medicine
Practical Scientific Skills
Academic Studies
- Conducting a Science Project
- Generative AI use
- Information Literacy Skills
- Presentation and Reflection
- Attendance Expectations
This course is a blended learning course where attendance is one day a week in College and you complete an additional 6 hours of study time a week in your own time.
- How You Will Be Assessed
Assessment takes place through course assignments and formal written examinations.
- Entry Requirements
GCSE Grade 9-4 in English and Maths
OR
Functional Skills Level 2 in English and Maths
You will be expected to bring maturity and good organisational skills to the course. All applicants who meet the entry requirements will be interviewed following a written assessment.
- Fee Information
£3,384
Students who were under 24 as at the 31st August who do not already hold a Level 3 qualification (eg. A levels or Level 3 BTec) may not have to pay fees, this is dependent on your postcode.
All other students can apply for the Advanced Learner Loan to cover the fees. This is a type of student loan, but if you progress to university and complete your degree, the loan will be cancelled and consequently your Access course will be free. You can find out more about the Advanced Learrner Loan here: www.gov.uk/advanced-learner-loan.
- Further Study
The Access to HE Science allows students to develop their skills in preparation for progression to university, students who successfully complete this course progress to study:
- Bio-medical Science
- Pharmacy
- Radiography
