Access to Higher Education Diploma (Health Professions)

Course Code

Access to Higher Education (Health Professions)

Course Type

Course Duration

1 year

Location

West Plaza

Start Date

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.

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
Preparing for a HE Admissions Interview

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
Behaviourism
Cognitive Developmental Psychology
Early Social Development
Understanding Stress

Health Studies
Equality and Diversity
Understanding Dementia

Fees

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 is £28.50.

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

  • The Care Show (NEC)
  • The Alzheimer’s and Dementia Show (NEC)
  • University Taster Days
  • University Open Days
  • Virtual Reality in the classroom (CPR and Bodyswaps)

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.

On completion of the Access to Higher Education Diploma (Health Professions), you can progress to an 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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