What is an Access to Higher Education Diploma?

The Access to Higher Education programme has been designed for students who can show the motivation, commitment and life skills to cope with the requirements of higher education but lack the formal qualifications. Whilst there are no age limits on the programme there may be external factors from the awarding institution which need to be taken into account before progressing onto higher education.

Duration and Attendance

One year full-time. Timetable and hours will be discussed at your interview.

Entry Requirements

There are usually no formal entry requirements for some pathways but applicants must show the motivation, commitment and life skills to cope with the requirements of higher education. Whilst there are no age limits on the programme there may be external factors from the awarding institution which need to be taken into account before progressing onto higher education.

All students are required to complete an initial assessment task of a 200 word handwritten autobiography and a key skills builder task; these will determine the level you are working at and the level of support needed during your time on Access. The college offers a number of Pre-Access courses; you may be asked to complete one prior to starting the Access course.

The current agency guidance states; ‘Under the current legislation (Section 96 of the Learning and Skills Act 2000), 16-18 year old learners enrolled on Access to Higher Education courses are ineligible for public funding as they are not accredited by the QCA nor approved under Section 96 of the Learning and Skills Act 2000.’

Any student under the age of 19 must contact Student Services to discuss alternative options available at York College.

Programme Content

The Access programme contains a number of subject-specialist courses called pathways (see below). Each course is divided into units of study. As you successfully complete these you build up credits towards the award of the Access Diploma. Each course has core units (which must be studied) and a range of optional units for you to choose from.

The programme includes tutorials, seminars, lectures, workshops, practical work and independent study. You might also like to organise your own voluntary work experience. Work experience is a core element to a number of pathways. In addition, work experience would be valuable if you are considering a teaching career.

Subject-specialist Courses

Assessment Methods

A range of assessment methods is used, including assignments, essays, reports, presentations and examinations. You will be assessed throughout your course but especially at the end of each of the main study blocks (called trimesters). These assessments will help you build up credits. You will need 60 credits of which 45 credits must be at Level 3 to achieve a full Diploma. A minimum attendance of 80 per cent is required throughout the course to successfully progress and achieve.

Additional Information/Cost

There is a cost to this course, please contact the Customer Services Unit on 01904 770400 for more information. Financial support is available for those that have difficulty in meeting this cost subject to their personal circumstances. Please contact Student Services on 01904 770397 for help and assistance. There will also be the cost of books and materials to consider, although these costs should be minimal.

A minimum attendance of 80 per cent is required throughout the course to successfully progress and achieve.

What qualification will I receive?

Access to Higher Education Diploma which is validated and accredited through the Open College Network Yorkshire and Humber region, which is an Access validating agency, licensed and regulated by the Quality Assurance Agency for Higher Education (QAA).

Where the Programme Leads

The Access to Higher Education Diploma is recognised nationally as a qualification which prepares students for study at university, it is accepted as an alternative route into higher education for mature students. Throughout your Access course you will be supported in your application to university degrees and diplomas such as:

• Psychology
• History
• Nursing
• English Literature or Language
• Occupational Therapy
• Science
• Physiotherapy
• Radiography
• Radiography
• Biochemistry
• Social Work
• Dietetics
• Counselling
• English History
• Sociology
• Foundation Degrees