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Level 3 Access to HE Diploma (Health Science)

Level 1 Diploma

Course Location

College

Stockport College

Location

Stockport College

Further Details

Age

University level

Department

Access to Higher Education

Course Start Date

Monday 14th September 2026

Course Duration

Full-time, 1 Year

Course Time

09:15:00 - 15:00:00

Course Fee

£ 3444.00
You may be eligible for support with your tuition fees - please visit the college website - funding and finance page for further information

Course Code

SFP-AH3D-1300

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Course Overview

The Access to HE Diploma (Health Science) is designed for adults who are looking to progress to university and pursue a career in science or healthcare.

This nationally recognised, QAA-compliant qualification provides an alternative route into higher education for learners who may not have traditional Level 3 qualifications. It is ideal for those wishing to study subjects such as Biomedical Science, Pharmacy, Chemistry, Biological Sciences, Forensic Science or a range of science-based allied health professions including Diagnostic Radiography, Dietetics, Audiology and Physiotherapy.

The diploma consists of 60 credits, including 45 graded credits and 15 ungraded credits, and is studied over one academic year. Students attend college for approximately 13 hours each week (12 hours of teaching plus a 1-hour tutorial) across three days. In addition, you should expect to complete around 12 hours of independent study each week to prepare for lessons and complete assignments.

Typical teaching hours are 9.20am-3.00pm (subject to confirmation).

Course Requirements

Applicants should normally have:

– GCSE English Language at Grade 4 (C) or above
– GCSE Mathematics at Grade 4 (C) or above

Preference will be given to applicants who also hold GCSE Science (or an equivalent qualification) at Grade 4 (C) or above.

Functional Skills English Level 2 may be accepted on a case-by-case basis.

Due to the mathematical and scientific demands of this course, Functional Skills Mathematics Level 2 cannot be accepted in place of GCSE Mathematics.

Applicants who do not yet meet the entry requirements may wish to study our Pre-Access to HE programme, alongside GCSE English and/or Mathematics, before progressing onto the diploma.

What you will Learn

The course develops the scientific knowledge, practical understanding and academic skills required for success at university.

You will study advanced Level 3 units in:

– Biology
– Chemistry
– Human Genetics
– Biological Molecules
– Organic Chemistry
– Structure and Bonding

Alongside scientific knowledge, you will develop essential transferable skills including academic writing, research, critical thinking, data analysis, presentation skills and independent learning, ensuring you are well prepared for higher education.

Assessment

Assessment is designed to reflect the types of work you will complete at university.
Assessment methods include:

– Essays
– Practical laboratory reports
– Scientific case studies
– Open and closed-book examinations
– Individual and group presentations
– Time-constrained assessments

A range of assessment methods allows you to demonstrate your knowledge and develop the academic skills expected in higher education.

Successful students will achieve the Open Awards Access to HE Diploma (Health Science).

Progression

Successful completion of the diploma provides an excellent pathway to a wide range of science and healthcare degree programmes.

Previous students have progressed to university courses including:

– Biomedical Science
– Pharmacy
– Pharmaceutical Science
– Biological Sciences
– Biochemistry
– Chemistry
– Medical Sciences
– Biotechnology
– Diagnostic Radiography
– Dietetics
– Physiotherapy
– Prosthetics
– Zoology

The qualification is recognised by universities throughout the UK as an alternative to A Levels for mature learners.

Career Options

This diploma can lead to careers in both scientific research and healthcare, including:

– Biomedical Scientist
– Pharmacist
– Pharmaceutical Scientist
– Research Scientist
– Chemist
– Forensic Scientist
– Diagnostic Radiographer
– Physiotherapist
– Prosthetist
– Dietitian
– Zoologist

Many graduates also continue into postgraduate study and specialist professional training.

Mandatory Units

There are no mandatory units on this diploma. Instead, the programme is designed around a carefully selected range of Biology and Chemistry units that provide an excellent foundation for progression to science and healthcare degrees.

Contact Details

For further information please contact T: 0161 886 7070 or E: info@trafford.ac.uk

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Disclaimer

Although every care has been taken to ensure that the information contained within this document is accurate, there may be changes to this programme and provision. We will endeavour to keep prospective and current students updated where appropriate and when the information becomes available.

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