Access to Higher Education Diploma (Science)
Have you always dreamed of working in the healthcare or science sector? Do you want to work towards a healthier and happier nation? Do you lack the qualifications to make this happen? If the answer to these three questions is yes, the Access to Higher Education Diploma (Science) could be the choice for you.
This Access to HE Diploma is suitable for students who plan to progress to undergraduate study in a science-related discipline. It has also been designed especially for learners who have been out of education for some time and need to improve their academic practice and get used to studying again.
If you are itching to begin your studies, then an Access to HE Diploma is an ideal option. Instead of waiting until September strikes, you can get going straight away. This qualification is also as flexible as you need it to be; meaning you can study at home in your own time, when it is convenient for you.
How does my Access to HE Diploma (Science) work?
You may be wondering how it is possible to complete a qualification without ever stepping foot in a classroom. With our easy to understand learning materials it couldn’t be simpler. Once you enrol, you will be able to access all of your work online. Students will also have access to expert tutors who will be there to offer guidance and support if things ever get tough.
How long it takes you to complete your Access to Higher Education Diploma (Science) really depends upon how much time you are able to dedicate to your studies. This learning programme is designed to give you the flexibility to study at times that are suitable for you, and to fit your studies around your other commitments. You will be provided with an Individual Learning Plan that outlines the submission deadlines for your assignments to keep you on track throughout your studies. An Access to HE Diploma can be completed within two years. However, most students complete their course within 9-12 months.
How will my Access to HE Diploma (Science) be assessed?
During your Access to Higher Education Diploma (Science) you will have to complete regular assignments. These assignments work to prove your knowledge of that specific subject area. Your subject tutor will then review and mark your work and award you with a grade for each unit. The Access to HE Diploma is a nationally recognised Level 3 qualification, regulated by the Quality Assurance Agency (QAA). Before you are awarded the Access to HE Diploma you need to earn 60 credits in total. It is worth noting that 45 of these credits are taken from graded units which are based on the different subject areas included in the course. The remaining 15 credits are ungraded units which are included to help you to enhance your academic writing skills.
What happens after the Access to HE Diploma (Science)?
On completion of the Access to HE Diploma, you should be ready to enrol on a science related degree programme. Whether you choose to choose a general science path or focus on a medical route is up to you. The skills and confidence you have gained during your Access to HE Diploma should have prepared you for all eventualities. After successfully completing an undergraduate degree at university you can enter a wide range of careers. Depending on which degree courses you study, these could include:
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Biochemist
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Biomedical Scientist
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Paramedic
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Research and development
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Lab Technician
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Cosmetics
Qualification: Open College Network West Midlands Access to Higher Education Diploma (Science)
On successful completion of the Open College Network West Midlands Access to Higher Education Diploma (Science) you will receive a QAA recognised Access to HE Diploma at level 3 (QAA ref: 40008848. This course has also been assigned 60 credits.
Requirements for Entry
Learners must have GCSE in both English and Maths at grade C/4 or above (or equivalent) or be working towards these qualifications. They also need to aspire to study a Science related degree at university.
Access to Higher Education Diplomas are widely accepted as an alternative to 'A Levels' for University entry and have a proven track record of helping students to secure a place on their chosen degree.
Learners should, however, be aware that Universities each apply their own entry requirements, and these vary broadly depending on the reputation and popularity of the university and of the degree programme that relates to your area of interest.
These variable admission criteria may include but are not limited to:
- Achievement of a certain amount of Access to HE Diploma units at Merit or distinction.
- Successful completion of a face-to-face interview at the University.
- Successful completion of literacy and numeracy assessments by the University.
- Completion of specific unpaid work experience or a previous job role.
- Prior attainment of GCSE English and Maths at grade C or above, or equivalent such as Functions Skills at Level 2.
It is vitally important that each student investigates the entry requirements of a range of universities that they could practically attend to determine if the Access to HE Diploma, and units included in the course, will meet university entry requirements.
Students should complete this exercise as early as possible so that they can plan for which establishment they will be applying to, and start to work towards it.
Whilst we have the fullest confidence that the Access to Higher Education Diplomas are compliant and perfectly sufficient to form part of a University application, Stonebridge Associated Colleges will not be able to accept any liability for the inability of any Access to Higher Education student to secure an offer from a Higher Education establishment due to the variables involved.
Open College Network West Midlands are a national Awarding Organisation, regulated by Ofqual, the Quality Assurance Agency for Higher Education (QAA) and Qualifications Wales, to develop and award nationally recognised qualifications.
Open College Network West Midlands work in partnership with employers, training providers, colleges, universities, schools and voluntary and community organisations to offer vocational credit-based qualifications, Access to Higher Education Diplomas and quality assured Customised Accreditation that enables learners gain employment or to progress into further learning and Higher Education. They also Quality Endorse organisations internal training and skills delivery.
Unit 1: Preparing To Study
On completion of this unit you will:
- Understand how study is organised and planned
- Understand how to apply theories of learning in relation to personal approaches to learning
- Understand a range of constraints upon study
- Understand the importance of assessment feedback.
Unit 2: Academic Writing Skills
On completion of this unit you will:
- Be able to write with relevance in responding to an academic task.
- Know how to interpret and discuss ideas and issues in responding to a set, academic writing task.
- Be able to summarise for academic purposes, selecting key points, information or central ideas.
Unit 3: Preparing a Written Assignment
On completion of this unit you will:
- Understand how to use key information sources.
- Understand why sources are acknowledged and referenced.
- Understand a range of reading strategies.
- Understand note-making methods.
- Understand how to plan draft and produce a written assignment.
Unit 4: Cell Biology
On completion of this unit you will:
- Understand the structure and organisation of cells, including stem cells.
- Understand cellular metabolism.
- Understand how cells grow and divide.
Unit 5: Atomic Structure
On completion of this unit you will:
- Understand protons, neutrons and electrons in terms of their relative charges and masses.
- Understand the distribution of protons, neutrons and electrons in an atom given its Atomic number and Mass number, including some isotopes.
- Understand the number and relative energies of the s, p and d orbitals for the principal quantum numbers and know the shapes of s, p and d orbitals.
- Understand how ionisation energies of elements relate to reactivity.
- Understand the position of elements within the Periodic Table from ionisation energy data.
Unit 6: Cell Division & Heredity
On completion of this unit you will:
- Demonstrate a knowledge of cell division.
- Demonstrate an understanding of heredity and genetic variation.
Unit 7: Periodic Table
On completion of this unit you will:
- Understand the Periodic Table.
- Understand periodicity in the elements of period 3.
- Understand ionisation energy.
- Understand oxidation and reduction.
- Understand reactions of the Group 2 metals.
- Understand the Group 7 elements.
Unit 8: Human Reproduction, Growth & Development
On completion of this unit you will:
- Understand the structure and function of the human reproductive system
- Understand how hormones regulate the reproductive system throughout life
- Understand the sequence of events from conception to childbirth
Unit 9: Atomic Structure & Bonding
On completion of this unit you will:
- Understand the structure of the atom.
- Understand electronic structures.
- Understand the formation of ionic bonds.
- Understand the formation of covalent bonds.
Unit 10: The Human Endocrine & Nervous System
On completion of this unit you will:
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Understand the anatomy, organisation and function of the nervous system.
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Understand how the endocrine system co-ordinates body functions.
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Understand the role of the nervous and endocrine systems homeostasis.
Unit 11: The Brain & Nervous System
On completion of this unit you will:
- Understand the major sub divisions of the nervous system.
- Understand the structure and function of glial cells and neurons.
Unit 12: Chemical Bonding and Structure
On completion of this unit you will:
- Understand electronic configuration using s, p, d notation.
- Understand ionic, covalent and dative covalent bonding.
- Understand polarisation and intermolecular forces.
- Understand the relationship between structure and properties of molecules.
- Understand electron pair repulsion theory.
- Understand the nature of organic chemicals.
Unit 13: Human Immunity
On completion of this unit you will:
- Understand non-specific defences against disease.
- Understand specific immunity.
- Understand the biology of vaccination.
Unit 14: Human Disease and Prevention
On completion of this unit you will:
- Understand the categories and causes of disease using infectious disease to illustrate your answer
- Understand the epidermiology of commonly occurring diseases/conditions
- Understand preventative measures for a chosen disease or condition
Unit 15: Hydrocarbons
On completion of this unit you will:
- Understand the importance of organic compounds.
- Understand the structure and characteristic reactions of alkanes.
- Understand the structure and characteristic reactions of alkenes.
Unit 16: The Human Muscular and Skeletal System
On completion of this unit you will:
- Understand the anatomy, organisation and function of the muscular system.
- Understand the anatomy, organisation and function of the skeletal system.
- Understand how the muscular system and skeletal system interact in locomotion.
Unit 17: The Human Nutrition and the Digestive System
On completion of this unit you will:
- Understand the structure and functions of the organs of the digestive system
- Understand nutrients and their sources
- Understand the components of a healthy diet and the consequences of an unhealthy diet
Unit 18: Chemical Change
On completion of this unit you will:
- Know how to measure the concentrations of solutions.
- Understand energy changes during chemical reactions.
- Understand factors influencing rates of chemical reactions.
- Understand the concept of chemical equilibrium
Unit 19: Cell Metabolism
On completion of this unit you will:
- Understand the glycolytic pathway and fermentation of sugar to yield alcohol.
- Understand the tricarboxylic acid cycle.
- Understand the dark reactions in photosynthesis.
- Understand the biochemical basis of generating adenosine triphosphate in subcellular organelles.
What’s included:
- All study materials
- Study guide
- Full tutor and Admin support
- The course fee includes the awarding body registration and certification fee (valued at up to £96)
