Access to Higher Education Diploma (Health Professions)

Course Code

Access to Higher Education (Health Professions)

Course Type

Course Duration

1 year

Start Date

7 September, 2026
Teacher demonstrating in Health & Social care simulation room to students

The Access to HE Diploma (Health Professions) offered at Sandwell College currently runs in the daytime. The one year intense course is Level 3 and designed to prepare learners for Higher Education, offering a variety of subjects in study skills, human biology, psychology and health studies. The course is challenging and vigorous, so if you are motivated, committed and determined, you have the potential to achieve and meet your career goal in healthcare and allied professions.

UCAS registration marks the start of the application process for undergraduate study. Therefore, it is strongly recommended that you research universities, courses, and specific entry requirements prior to commencing the Access to HE Diploma. The award of a Diploma does not guarantee entry to UK higher education programmes.

Summary:

  • Progression onto higher education study in a variety of health-related undergraduate degree pathways.
  • Preparation to work in the adult health and social care sector. 
  • Develop confidence and become responsible citizens in society. 
  • Understand how to manage challenges and embrace change. 
  • Build on existing knowledge and skills. 
  • Supporting opportunities to seek employment.

 

Fee assessment required.

Some learners are fully funded for the diploma depending on individual circumstances and eligibility criteria, or you may wish to self-fund. There is also the option for an advanced learner loan which will be discussed with you at enrolment by the funding team. More information about advanced learner loans can be found here:

https://www.gov.uk/advanced-learner-loan

Cost of UCAS application.

Entry requirements for the Access to Higher Education Diploma (Health Professions) are:

  • GCSE English Language at grade C/4 or higher (mandatory).
  • GCSE Maths at grade C/4 or higher (if not achieved, learners will be expected to study GCSE Maths alongside their main course).
  • Functional Skills Level 2 in English/Maths can be accepted as an alternative to GCSE. However, please note that it is the responsibility of the learner to ensure that these qualifications will be accepted by universities and future employment.

Modules

Access to Higher Education Diploma (Health Professions) students will learn:

  • Study Skills:

    • Professional Behaviours
    • Academic Study Techniques
    • Numeracy in a Health Context
    • Presentations Skills
  • Human Biology
    • The Muscular and Skeletal System
    • Respiration and Circulation 
    • The Nervous System
    • Homeostasis and the Endocrine System 
    • Human Cell Biology
    • The Urinary System
    • Nutrition and Digestion
    • Reproduction
  • Psychology & Health Studies
    • Early Social Development 
    • Understanding Stress
    • The Psychology of Mental Health and Illness
    • Equality and Diversity 
    • Understanding Dementia 

Facilities learners will have access to:

  • Classrooms with Smartboard screens
  • Simulation hospital room
  • Virtual Reality headsets
  • iPads and laptops
  • Laboratory facilities

Enrichment activities on the Access to Higher Education Diploma (Health Professions) include:

  • University taster days
  • University open days
  • How to write a UCAS personal statement 
  • Visit to the Medical Museum

Course work – graded units are assessed as Pass, Merit or Distinction. A variety of assessment methods will be used throughout the course including:

  • Essays
  • Reports
  • Presentations
  • Group discussions
  • Timed assessments
  • Posters
  • Leaflets
  • Laboratory experiments
  • Role play 
  • Practical activities

You will be provided with guidance and support sessions for each assessment.

Undergraduate degree in a variety of subjects including: 

  • Adult or Children’s Nursing
  • Mental Health Nursing
  • Midwifery
  • Paramedic Science
  • Occupational Therapy
  • Physiotherapy
  • Psychology
  • Forensic Psychology
  • Forensic and Applied Biology
  • Criminology
  • Social Work
  • Speech and Language Therapy
  • Primary Education
  • Other allied healthcare professions 
  • The diploma can also lead onto apprenticeship degrees

Course Details

Qualification

Level 3

Exam Board

AIM Qualifications and Assessment Group

Study Mode

Full Time

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Apply for this course or find out more

Located in West Bromwich, Sandwell College boasts best in class facilities and exceptional teaching standards.
Alongside delivering outstanding pass rates, the College is proud to offer unrivalled mental health services and welfare support, ensuring that every student has access to the advice and guidance they need.

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