Course Overview
This very popular course is for you if you are over 19 and are interested in returning to education with the aim of further training in dentistry, dental hygiene, radiography, veterinary science, sports science/therapy (or other science subjects) but lack confidence because you may not have appropriate qualifications. The Access to HE course is designed to meet your needs by helping you to gain new academic skills and qualifications appropriate for entry to degree level study. You can use the qualification to gain a place at university or to enhance your career prospects (e.g., higher apprenticeships).
All our Access Diplomas are made up of three Level 3 subjects with 45 credits of graded Academic Subject Content (ASC) and 15 credits of ungraded Academic Preparation Skills units (APS) which offer generic study skills to prepare you for higher level study. On the Science Diploma you will study Biology, Psychology, and Chemistry. You will also study core compulsory components in Study Skills covering academic writing, referencing, presentation and seminar skills, research, and reflective practice to ensure you are university ready when you complete your Diploma.
You will also receive help and advice with the selection of university and college courses available to you, and with your UCAS application, personal statement, and interview preparation.
You will receive excellent teaching from outstanding, experienced staff, combined with extensive tutorial support
- A variety of exciting resources for you to use
- A blended learning approach, which combines on- site lessons with live remote lectures to maximise learning potential and flexibility
- Dedicated workshops to advise on the application process for university, your course choice and how to write a personal statement for UCAS
- Guest speakers and enrichment opportunities
- Pass rates are outstanding; success can improve your life in so many ways
- A variety of teaching styles are used: discussions in small groups and as a class; seminar style work; note making and assignment writing
- You will be supported to achieve more than you thought you could
- Feedback from current students tells us that the atmosphere in the classroom is friendly and helpful, the relationships between students and staff are excellent with the right blend of formality and informality, and previous students say they felt fully prepared for their degree courses.
- Students are advised to organise their own work experience after consultation with universities.
This course will take place for 2 days per week on campus plus 2 days per week of independent study.
Assessment Methods
You will produce a portfolio of work over the year including essays, reports, presentations, and a research unit. You gain credits for the assignments you do. You accumulate credits towards the diploma. There is a minimum of one compulsory exam unit.
Progression Options
There are a variety of Higher Education institutions around the Southwest and nationally offering degrees in a variety of science subjects.
Previous students have gone on to degree courses including:
- Veterinary science
- Biomedical sciences
- Dental Hygiene and Therapy
- Psychology
- Radiography
- Podiatry
- Environmental science
- Marine biology
Please note: most university courses require GCSE Maths and/or English at Grade C/4 or above. There is opportunity to study either or both alongside your Access programme if needed. You may also need to obtain relevant work experience for university entry for veterinary or dental hygiene/therapy degrees.
Entry Requirements
- Students should have GCSE grade 4/C or above, or Level 2 Functional Skills, or equivalent in English Languages and mathermatics. Please note that universities may require higher grades and/or additional GCSEs, so please check with your preferred university
- This course is for students aged 19 and over.
Frequently Asked Questions
The application route depends on your chosen study mode. For full-time undergraduate degrees, you will need to apply via UCAS. If you are applying for a part-time course, a professional qualification, or a Degree Apprenticeship, you can usually apply directly through our website using the ‘Apply Now’ button on the course page. If you need any guidance, our Admissions team is always on hand to help.
Every programme at University Centre Somerset is designed as a ‘Degree for Real Life.’ We focus heavily on employability, meaning your studies will be directly linked to industry needs. You will benefit from work-based learning, live commercial briefs, and our strong regional employer networks. Additionally, our dedicated Careers team offers 1:1 guidance to help you refine your CV, prepare for interviews, and build your professional network.
Transitioning to higher education is a significant step, and we treat you as an independent adult while providing robust support. You will be assigned a personal academic tutor to guide your academic progress. We also offer dedicated Higher Education study skills sessions, library support, and a comprehensive Student Support team providing confidential advice on mental health, wellbeing, and financial concerns.
Most UK students studying a first degree, Foundation Degree, or HND are eligible for tuition fee and maintenance loans through Student Finance England. If you are studying a Degree Apprenticeship, your tuition fees are fully funded by your employer and the government, and you earn a salary while you learn. We also offer advice on eligible bursaries and financial hardship funds – contact our Student Support team for tailored advice.
Yes. We offer dedicated, independent student accommodation tailored for our higher education learners, primarily based at our Taunton and Cannington campuses. Our HE options provide a safe, comfortable, and mature environment that fosters a strong learning community, with easy access to our state-of-the-art campus facilities.
Absolutely. We welcome applications from mature students and those with non-traditional qualifications. We consider a wide range of experience, including vocational qualifications, Access to HE diplomas, and relevant professional experience. If you are unsure whether your current qualifications meet the entry criteria, please get in touch with our admissions team to discuss your individual pathway.
We understand that many of our HE students balance their studies with employment and family commitments. We strive to condense our full-time degree timetables into a few days a week to allow for part-time work or independent study. Our part-time routes are specifically designed to be flexible for working professionals.
We are here to help. You can submit a direct enquiry using the form our Contact page, or you can contact our Higher Education admissions team via email or phone. We also highly recommend registering for our next Open Event, where you can speak directly with the lecturers and tour our advanced facilities.