Access to Higher Education: Diploma in Health Professions

The Access Diploma is predominantly based on continuous assessment (coursework). There will be a variety of teaching methods used throughout the course, including individual practical work, small group exercises, online research, group presentations, whole-class teaching and peer assessment. You will be supported and encouraged to develop and practice the skills that will enable you to become an independent learner and fully prepare you for Higher Education. You will compile a portfolio of assessed work throughout the year, which is externally moderated at the end of the course.



In some subjects, such as Biology and Psychology, there will be in-class timed tests, practical experiments and presentations. Examination practice is a mandatory requirement for all Access courses.



If you are taking GCSE English or Maths, you will also have external examinations in May/June.

This course is for learners aged 19 and above.

Most universities require 5 GCSE grades at C/4 or above or equivalent, including English and Maths (and Science if studying Nursing, Midwifery or Medical Science related degrees) as part of the entry requirements for degree courses. GCSE English and Maths are separate qualifications from the Access Diploma so, if required, we offer additional lessons for these subjects. If you don’t already have a C/4 grade or above in Maths or English at GCSE, these are currently free for students over 19. We also offer GCSE Biology as part of our evening class programme. Please contact our Advice & Guidance Centre for further details. Please note that due to the amount of work involved, we strongly recommend that you only take one GCSE at the same time as the Access Diploma.

If you already have GCSE Maths, English and Science (or equivalent), you must bring copies of your certificates with you to your interview.

Basic IT skills would be helpful.

For Biology – GCSE grade C/B (4/5) in Biology; or GCSE grade C/B (4/5) in Science is recommended.

If you do not currently hold the above entry requirements, you could apply for the Pre Access Level 2 Award in Skills for Employment, Training & Personal Development to help gain entry onto Access to HE study. See the link to further information here https://www.petroc.ac.uk/courses/detail/award-in-skills-for-employment-training-personal-development/

After you have been accepted for this course, you will be sent a reading list before the start of the Access course. In the meantime, you may find it very useful to look at GCSE and AS level Human Biology text books: suggested websites for Biology: www.cellsalive.com, www.s-cool.co.uk, www.bbc.co.uk/schools/gcsebitesize.

It will also be useful to research courses and universities prior to starting the course to help with your university application, which takes place in the first term.

This course is a Level 3 programme which enables you to progress on to a foundation degree or full honours degree at Petroc, awarded by the University of Plymouth, or to a BA or BSc programme at any UK university.



This Diploma can lead to a wide range of degree courses in, for example, Human Biosciences, Podiatry, Mental Health Nursing, Child Nursing, Adult Nursing, Paramedic Science, Midwifery, Occupational Therapy, Physiotherapy, Radiography, Dental Hygiene, Nursing, and Sports Coaching.

There is an excellent Moodle (VLE) for the Diploma courses where you will have access to resources and additional reading, as well as extensive Learning Resources support.

– Individual computers can be booked for use in study periods.

– Our classrooms have undergone modernisation in recent years and are well-equipped with up-to-date technologies.

– There are dedicated and well equipped specialist laboratories.

– The tutors are well qualified, experienced, enthusiastic and understand the needs of Access learners and provide appropriate support and guidance.

There is also support on applying to university from specialists in our Guidance Centre.

We have a designated common room for mature students only (19+).

Q: Do universities recognise the Access to Higher Education Diploma?

A: The Access to Higher Education Diploma is a national qualification and is recognised and accepted by UK universities. Many universities have policies to encourage applications from Access to HE students, who are valued for their maturity and willingness to contribute to discussions.



Q: How much does it cost?

A: You are entitled to full fee remission if the following applies to you:

Aged 19 – 23 and studying your first full Level 3 qualification.

Aged 19+ – find out more about the Advanced Learner Loan – our Advice & Guidance Centre will be able to help you with this & any questions you may have.



Applicants who take the Advanced Learner Loan do not need to pay anything upfront. If you complete your Access Diploma and then go on to complete a course in Higher Education, the remaining balance of your Advanced Learner Loan, including any interest on it, will be written off. You can get full information from Student Finance England. Alternatively, you can contact our Guidance Centre for advice and information on fees.



Q: Can I get any help with childcare, or other costs?

A: Some additional help is available, dependent upon individual circumstances – please contact our Guidance Centre for advice and information.

Every full-time student at Petroc will have their own Study Programme which will include:

– Your academic or vocational qualification.

– Maths and English Language development – if you have not achieved GCSE grade 4 in either of these subjects.

– Work Experience – hours will vary depending on your qualification and course level.

– Tutor Support – to support your personal, academic and professional development.

– Sustainability – helping you to identify how you can improve the sustainability of your future employment sectors.

– Personal Development Awards – developing six key areas of personal and employability behaviours to prepare you for the working world.