Choosing what to study after GCSEs can feel like a big decision. For many learners, continuing education through qualifications such as A Levels, vocational courses, apprenticeships or an Access to Higher Education Diploma can help them progress towards their future goals.
While many students traditionally study A Levels between the ages of 16 and 18, there are also alternative routes available for adults who want to return to education later in life.
Although education pathways have changed over the years, you may find that your goals have changed too. Whether it’s to improve your chances of getting that promotion, develop new skills, or go to university to start an exciting new career, it’s never too late to continue learning.
You can learn at any time in your life to reach your goals.
What’s more, as an adult you’re able to tailor your learning experience to suit you and your needs. You can really think about what it is you like and make an informed decision on what’s best for you.
There are many different qualifications available, but two routes that are often considered by learners planning to progress to university are A Levels and Access to Higher Education Diplomas.
What is an A Level?
An A Level (short for Advanced Level) is an internationally recognised qualification typically studied by students aged 16 to 18 in England, Wales and Northern Ireland.
They have been a long-established route into higher education, with many universities using A Levels as part of their entry requirements.
A Levels are regulated by the Office of Qualifications and Examinations Regulation (Ofqual), which ensures regulated qualifications meet required standards across England.
Students usually study three A Levels over two years, although the number of subjects and study arrangements can vary depending on individual circumstances and education providers.
How does it work?
A Levels cover a specific topic in considerable depth, improving your level of understanding on the subject matter as well as problem-solving and analytical skills.
A Levels cover a wide variety of subjects that could make your learning experience more enjoyable. They allow learners to develop specialist knowledge in subjects that may link to their future university course or career goals.
For example, if you were to study A Level Biology you’d learn about microorganisms, cellular biology and even entire ecosystems.
By covering a lot of ground you’re bound to find a niche you love and want to explore further. Especially if you’re unsure on exactly which direction you’d like your learning to take you.
A Levels are also accepted by all universities, although individual universities and degree courses set their own entry requirements, including the grades and subjects they require.
For adult learners who did not previously complete A Levels, studying multiple subjects can require a significant time commitment, particularly when balancing education alongside work and personal responsibilities.
Although if you’re not looking to get into higher education, they could be the better choice.
As a widely recognised Level 3 qualification, A Levels can also demonstrate academic ability to employers and may support progression in a range of careers.
What is an Access to HE Diploma?
An Access to Higher Education Diploma is a nationally recognised qualification designed for adults who want to progress to university but may not have the traditional qualifications required for entry.
Since they were established in the 1970s, they’ve helped many students achieve their goals of getting onto an undergraduate degree.
Access to Higher Education Diplomas are regulated by the Quality Assurance Agency for Higher Education (QAA), ensuring they meet nationally recognised standards.
How does the diploma work?
Access to HE Diplomas are often considered an alternative to A Levels for adult learners preparing for university. Rather than studying multiple separate qualifications, learners complete one diploma designed around their intended progression route.
If you were to take two A Levels back to back, then you’d be looking at around 18 months to two years of study. Whereas the average online learner completes their Access to HE Diploma in around 9/10 months. Many learners can complete an Access to HE Diploma in around 9 to 12 months, depending on their chosen study pace, enrolment date and individual circumstances.
Although the content isn’t as varied as A Levels, this is because Access to HE Diplomas are specifically designed to prepare learners for progression into particular university subjects or career pathways.
For example, Stonebridge College offers Access to Higher Education Diplomas including Nursing, Midwifery, Health and Social Care, Health Science Professions, Radiography, Social Work, Education Professions, Business, Psychology, Veterinary Science and more.
It is important to choose an Access to HE Diploma that matches your intended degree pathway, as universities may require applicants to have completed a relevant subject-specific qualification.
Whereas universities are more lenient in terms of which A Levels you study for some degree subjects, as long they’re somewhat related. Although certain subjects are very specific with their requirements such as nursing, midwifery, secondary school teaching and medical degrees.
Both A Levels and Access to Higher Education Diplomas can be valuable routes into university, but the right option depends on your previous qualifications, career goals and the entry requirements of your chosen degree.
Applying to University
Both options are valid steppingstones toward higher education.
It is, however, still important to check the entry requirements for your desired institute. While all universities accept A Levels, it isn’t the same for the Access to HE Diplomas.
Access to HE Diplomas are accepted by the vast majority of universities, but entry requirements vary between institutions and courses. It is always recommended that you check with your chosen university before enrolling on a qualification.
UCAS Points
UCAS points are the numerical value assigned to your qualifications and their specific grading.
Universities often set a minimum requirement of UCAS points along with what subjects they’d like you to have studied. This shows you have not only studied the relevant subjects, but you’ve received a decent grade too.
A Level grades are divided as followed:
- A* = 56
- A = 48
- B = 40
- C = 32
- D = 24
- E = 16
Access to Higher Education Diplomas are also assigned UCAS Tariff points, with the total depending on the grades achieved across your units. A completed Access to HE Diploma can carry up to 144 UCAS Tariff points, which is equivalent to three A Levels at grade A.
However, not all learners achieve the maximum tariff, and universities may have additional entry requirements depending on the competitiveness of the course.
For example, if you’re considering a degree in medicine then being able to get the highest possible grades and meeting specific subject requirements might improve your chances.
Researching your chosen university course before selecting your qualification route can help ensure you choose the right pathway for your goals.
Take Your Next Step Today
Whatever route you decide to go down, it’s important to choose the qualification that best supports your future goals.
Stonebridge College offers a wide range of online Access to Higher Education Diplomas designed to help adult learners progress towards university and their chosen careers.
Study 100% online with the flexibility to fit your learning around work, family and other commitments. Our subscription-based courses allow you to take control of your studies, with support from qualified tutors throughout your learning journey.
If you need to improve your English or maths qualifications before progressing to university, Stonebridge College also offers Functional Skills English & Maths Level 2 Including Exams, which are accepted by many universities as an alternative to GCSE requirements.
Whether you’re returning to education after a break, changing career direction or working towards a long-term ambition, Stonebridge College can help you take the next step.
Browse our online courses today and start building the qualifications you need for your future.
Read our blog to learn more about how to prepare for your distance learning course here.
If you’re ready to get back into education, browse our courses now and begin your learning journey with Stonebridge College.
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