Health and Medical Science Pathway - Access to Higher Education Diploma (Science)

Have you always dreamed of working in the healthcare 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 HE Diploma (Science) – Health and Medical Science Pathway could be the choice for you.

This course is suitable for students who plan to progress to undergraduate study in a healthcare related subject area. It has also been designed especially for learners who have been out of education for some time and need to readjust to academic practices.

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. The course is perfect for learners with hectic work and family lives, who may not be able to attend regular scheduled classes. Whether it takes six months, nine months, a year or even two years, all we care about is that you get where you need to be.

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. Well, with Stonebridge’s easy to understand course 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 our expert tutors who will be contactable via phone, email and through our online platform, PEARL. Our tutors are there to offer guidance and support if things ever get tough.

Distance learning offers a great deal of flexibility. This is great for busy learners, but each student must develop discipline and assure they make time for their studies. Individuals are much more likely to be successful if they properly schedule their time and set themselves realistic goals. If need be, they can also get in touch with their classmates by using our unique online platform.

How will my Access to HE Diploma (Science) be assessed?

During the course of your qualification you will have to complete regular assignments. These assignments work to prove your knowledge of that specific subject area. Once they are done, they should be returned to a tutor for marking. The tutor will spend time carefully grading your work and flagging up strategies which will help you improve next time. 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 qualification credits in total. It is worth noting that 45 of these credits are taken from graded units which make up the academic parts of the course. The remaining 15 credits are ungraded units which are included to help you to cultivate your study methods.

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 course at university you can enter a wide range of careers. Depending on which degree courses you picked, these could include:

• Hospital Technician
• Biophysicist
• Teacher
• Research and development
• Healthcare assistant

Syllabus

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 concepts and debates in responding to a set, academic writing task.
• Be able to summarise for academic purposes, selecting key points, information or central ideas.
• Understand the role of reference, allusion and paraphrase to avoid plagiarism.

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: Independent Research 

On completion of this unit you will:

• Be able to plan a piece of research on an approved subject area.
• Be able to collect research material from different sources
• Be able to use data to substantiate an argument
• Be able to record sources of information
• Be able to present research findings

Unit 5: Human Nutrition & 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 how diet may influence health.

Unit 6: The Human Musculo-Skeletal System

On completion of this unit you will:

• Understand anatomical terminology
• Understand the skeletal system and locomotion
• Understand the muscular system

Unit 7: Progressing to Higher Education

On completion of this unit you will:

• Understand potential next steps in education.
• Understand key sources of information relevant to HE application.
• Understand personal HE opportunities.
• Understand the financial implications of further study.
• Know how to apply for a course

Unit 8: Cell Biology

On completion of this unit you will:

• Understand the cell.
• Understand cellular metabolism.
• Understand how cells grow and divide.

Unit 9: Radioactivity

On completion of this unit you will:

• Understand the main types of ionising radiations and their measurement.
• Understand radioactive decay.
• Understand the practical applications of ionising radiation and radioisotopes and their use with acceptable safety.

Unit 10: 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 tract throughout life
• Understand the sequence of events from conception to puberty

Unit 11: The Human Endocrine & Nervous System 

On completion of this unit you will:

• Understand the anatomy and organisation of the nervous system and how it co- ordinates the body.
• Understand the structure and function of nerve cells and other cells in the nervous system.
• Understand how the endocrine system co-ordinates body functions.
• Understand homeostasis.

Unit 12: 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.

Unit 13: Human Immunity

On completion of this unit you will:

• Understand non-specific defences against disease.
• Understand specific immunity and the immune response.
• Understand the biology of vaccination.
• Understand how immune sensitivity may cause ill-health.

Unit 14: 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 15: Physics

On completion of this unit you will:

• Understand the connection between force and motion and be able to use Newton’s Laws of Motion.
• Understand conservation of energy and momentum.
• Understand the concepts and vocabulary of wave motion.

Unit 16: Medical Physics

On completion of this unit you will:

• Understand atomic structure.
• Understand the nature of alpha, beta and gamma radiation, and X-rays.
• Understand the main uses of ionising radiation in monitoring and treatment.
• Understand how radio isotopes are used in health care.
• Understand the health applications of a selected part of electromagnetic spectrum.
• Understand how ultrasound is used in health care.

Unit 17: Mechanics

On completion of this unit you will:
 

• Understand vectors and vector addition.
• Understand vector resolution.
• Understand the nature of uniformly accelerated motion.
• Understand projectile motion.
• Understand Newton’s Laws of Motion.
• Understand momentum and its conservation.

Unit 18: Optics & Sound

On completion of this unit you will:

• Understand the Laws of Reflection.
• Understand the Laws of Refraction.
• Understand the action of convex and concave lenses.
• Understand the simple optics of the eye.
• Understand the nature of transverse and longitudinal wave motions.
• Understand how the ear detects sound waves.

Unit 19: Electromagnetic Spectrum

On completion of this unit you will:

• Understand the principles and types of electromagnetic waves.
• Understand the properties of visible and ultraviolet light.
• Understand the properties of microwaves and infrared.
• Understand the biohazards of ultraviolet and infrared radiation.
• Understand the hazards and uses of X- Rays in medical applications.

Study Hours

This is only an approximate figure and is dependant upon how much time you can dedicate to your studies and how well you grasp the learning concepts in the course material. Furthermore, at the end of each lesson there is a question paper that needs to be completed and returned to your tutor. You should allow at least 1 - 2 hours of study to complete each question paper.

The approximate amount of time required to complete the course is: 342 hrs.

The Access to Higher Education (A2HE) Consortium is a group of organisations who work together to promote and deliver excellence within the A2HE experience. By working in partnership the A2HE Education Consortium is able to call upon the significant expertise of each partner organisation to deliver the best possible learning journey and experience for our A2HE learners.

Access to Higher Education courses are ideal for learners wanting to start a university course but that have no formal qualifications. By working in partnership the A2HE Consortium is able to:

• Recruit, signpost and navigate learners through their decision to register on an A2HE programme of study.
• Provide learners with the most comprehensive Information, Advice and Guidance prior to registration.
• Provide learners with a range of funding options including; payment in full, payment using consumer credit and payment using a government backed Advanced Learning Loan.
• Give learners access to cutting edge technology to support the delivery of their A2HE programme.
• Allow learners to customise their A2HE programme so that it is bespoke to their own learning needs, challenges them throughout and delivers additional learning in areas such as Maths, English and Soft Skills (Confidence, Resilience, Team working etc.).
• Learners access high quality learning materials that are rich and engaging supported by a team of committed and talented tutors and assessors.
• Course accreditation and certification from Open College Network West Midlands, a QAA (Quality Assurance Agency for Higher Education) licenced Access Validating Agency (AVA).

Who are the partners?

The Stonebridge Group (SAC) The Stonebridge Group of Training Companies is a conglomerate of 6 separate independent training providers established in 1997 and continually growing. Currently the group trains more than 70,000 learners per annum in a wide range of subjects areas from A-Levels to Web Design and IT with everything in-between. The Group currently employs almost 200 staff who work in all areas including learner recruitment, course development, course delivery, admin, finance and tutorial support Stonebridge Associated Colleges are currently a Gold Trusted Merchant with an average Service Rating of over 98% from 854 Independent Feefo Reviews. The Group specialises in training, digital marketing and learner recruitment including advice and guidance to ensure the right learners are placed on the right programme of study. Please click here for more information
Pearltech UK Ltd (PEARL) PEARL (Personalised e-Assisted Responsive Learning) is uniquely innovative Virtual Learning Environment (VLE) that delivers customised and responsive learning based on individual learner’s needs. The system is available entirely online which means that learners can access all aspects of their learning, assessment and eportfolio 24/7 and from any location in the World using a variety of devices. Pearl encourages learner development beyond academic skills and includes proprietary responsive algorithms which present different learning exercises or challenges unique to each learner. This means that every learner has the ability to customise their course and to enrich their learning experience.
Enabling Development Opportunities Ltd (EDO) EDO has been working with businesses and learners since 2007. The team of directors and staff have decades of experience in skills training. All learners are supported throughout their studies by a talented group of tutors and assessors who are responsible for ensuring that all learners on the A2HE programmes are supported in a way that makes them feel “special” and gives them the best possible chance of succeeding. As part of the A2HE Consortium, EDO are responsible for delivering the training and accessing Advanced Learning Loan (if required) funding for learners. EDO also quality assure the programmes and claim the final certificate for learners from Open College Network West Midlands on successful completion of the A2HE programme. Please click here for more information

The Advanced Learning Loan (ALL) Consortium is a group of organisations who work together to promote and deliver excellence within the ALL experience. By working in partnership the ALL Education Consortium is able to call upon the significant expertise of each partner organisation to deliver the best possible learning journey and experience for our Advanced Learning Loan learners.

Advanced Learner Loan funding is ideal for learners who are not able to fund their own learning and are seeking a government backed loan in order to do so. By working in partnership the ALL Consortium is able to:

• Recruit, signpost and navigate learners through their decision to register on a programme of study using an Advanced Learning Loan.
• Provide learners with the most comprehensive Information, Advice and Guidance prior to registration.
• Provide learners with a range of funding options including; payment in full, payment using consumer credit and payment using a government backed Advanced Learning Loan.
• Give learners access to cutting edge technology to support the delivery of their Advanced Learning Loan funded programme.
• Allow learners to customise their Advanced Learning Loan funded programme so that it is bespoke to their own learning needs, challenges them throughout and delivers additional learning in areas such as Maths, English and Soft Skills (Confidence, Resilience, Team working etc.).
• Learners access high quality learning materials that are rich and engaging supported by a team of committed and talented tutors and assessors.
• Course accreditation and certification from various Ofqual regulated Awarding Bodies.

Who are the partners?

The Stonebridge Group (SAC) The Stonebridge Group of Training Companies is a conglomerate of 6 separate independent training providers established in 1997 and continually growing. Currently the group trains more than 70,000 learners per annum in a wide range of subjects areas from A-Levels to Web Design and IT with everything in-between. The Group currently employs almost 200 staff who work in all areas including learner recruitment, course development, course delivery, admin, finance and tutorial support Stonebridge Associated Colleges are currently a Gold Trusted Merchant with an average Service Rating of over 98% from 854 Independent Feefo Reviews. The Group specialises in training, digital marketing and learner recruitment including advice and guidance to ensure the right learners are placed on the right programme of study. Please click here for more information
Pearltech UK Ltd (PEARL) PEARL (Personalised e-Assisted Responsive Learning) is uniquely innovative Virtual Learning Environment (VLE) that delivers customised and responsive learning based on individual learner’s needs. The system is available entirely online which means that learners can access all aspects of their learning, assessment and eportfolio 24/7 and from any location in the World using a variety of devices. Pearl encourages learner development beyond academic skills and includes proprietary responsive algorithms which present different learning exercises or challenges unique to each learner. This means that every learner has the ability to customise their course and to enrich their learning experience.
Dimensions Training Solutions (DTS) DTS was originally formed in 1973 and has been responsible for training thousands of apprentices and adult learners since then. DTS aim to help learners broaden their skills, gain knowledge; build on experience, to make a positive change to their career and life with dozens of apprenticeships and distance learning QCF courses that can really kick start a new career. Judged Good by OFSTED in October 2015: Just some of the reasons why DTS are a GOOD Training provider, very close to OUTSTANDING, but we don’t like to brag... Learners really enjoy their learning Effective employer involvement helps learners to link work-related activities well with their qualification Good quality workplaces, with a diverse range of clients Highly effective development of Apprentices’ English & Maths skills Employers provide a high quality working environment Consistent, high level of achievement for learners As part of the ALL Consortium, DTS are responsible for delivering the training and accessing the Advanced Learning Loan (if required) funding for learners. DTS also quality assure the programmes and claim the final certificate for learners from the relevant awarding body on successful completion of the programme. Please click here for more information

What's included

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)

Qualifications

Qualification: Open College Network West Midlands Access to Higher Education Diploma (Science)

Qualification: Open College Network West Midlands Access to Higher Education Diploma (Science)

Requirements for Entry

Learners must have a GCSE in maths and english (or an equivalent), a relevant nvq at level 2 or above and 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 admission. The programmes have a track record of success in helping students to gain admission to University.

Learners should, however, be aware that Universities each apply their own admissions criteria, 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:

1. Achievement of a certain amount of Access to HE Diploma units at Merit or above.
2. Successful completion of a face-to-face interview at the University
3. Successful completion of literacy and numeracy assessments by the University.
4. Completion of specific unpaid  ‘work experience’ or a previous ‘job role’.
5. Prior attainment of GCSE English, Maths and/or Science – Or equivalents, such as Functional/Key Skills at Level 2, NVQ Certificate in a related subject at Level 2 etc..

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 diploma and unit choices within meet each set of 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, DTS will not be able to accept any liability for the inability of any Access to Higher Education learner to secure an offer from a Higher Education establishment due to the ‘variables’ involved.

Professional Membership

On completion of this course you will be eligible to join the following Professional Associations(s):

On successful completion of your course your qualification is awarded. You will receive an attractively presented Diploma or Certificate issued by Stonebridge Associated Colleges, this will also allow you to use the letters SAC. Dip. or SAC. Cert. after your name.

Stonebridge Associated Colleges is one of the leading (and biggest) distance education colleges in the U.K and internationally. We have many thousands of students studying with us at any one time from locations all over the world. Our diplomas will always count towards your future, and will improve your prospects of future employment or higher level study etc. by proving that you have studied to a certain level, that you have proficiency in your chosen subjects and that you are interested in your field of choice. Education is always an investment in your future and you will find this to be the case with our qualifications in your jurisdiction.

Professional Membership

On completion of this course you will be eligible to join the following Professional Associations(s):

On successful completion of your course your qualification is awarded. You will receive an attractively presented Diploma or Certificate issued by Stonebridge Associated Colleges, this will also allow you to use the letters SAC. Dip. or SAC. Cert. after your name.

Stonebridge Associated Colleges is one of the leading (and biggest) distance education colleges in the U.K and internationally. We have many thousands of students studying with us at any one time from locations all over the world. Our diplomas will always count towards your future, and will improve your prospects of future employment or higher level study etc. by proving that you have studied to a certain level, that you have proficiency in your chosen subjects and that you are interested in your field of choice. Education is always an investment in your future and you will find this to be the case with our qualifications in your jurisdiction.

Career Transition Partnership (CTP)

We are proud to be working with Career Transition Partnetship (CTP) as a CTP Preferred Suplier. We are able to offer ex-service personnel access to funding for our whole range of military resettlement courses.

As a CTP Preferred Supplier we are able to accept your IRTC (Individual Resettlement Training Costs) grant or ELC (Enhanced Learning Credits) for any of the following courses:

• Assessing Vocational Achievement (CAVA)
• Beauty Therapy (Massage Route) Dual Course
• Business Administration
• Certificate in Education and Training
• Counselling Skills
• Early Years Workforce (Early Years Educator)
• Foot Health Care Practitioner
• Health and Social Care (Adults)
• Hospitality Supervision and Leadership
• Playwork (NVQ)
• Preparing to Work in Adult Social Care
• Principles of Customer Service course
• Principles of End of Life Care Course
• Specialist Support for Teaching and Learning in Schools
• Supporting Teaching and Learning in Schools Certificate

If you are ex-service personnel and would like more information on how to claim this funding, please contact the college or speak to your Service Resettlement Advisor.

For more information on CTP, please visit www.ctp.org.uk

Study Options

In order to offer our students the most convenient and flexible distance learning courses, Stonebridge Associated College offers you the option to study for your course via two methods:

• 1. Via the traditional paper-based method.
• 2. Through the online method.

Study Hours

This is only an approximate figure and is dependant upon how much time you can dedicate to your studies and how well you grasp the learning concepts in the course material. Furthermore, at the end of each lesson there is a question paper that needs to be completed and returned to your tutor. You should allow at least 1 - 2 hours of study to complete each question paper.

The approximate amount of time required to complete the course is: 342 hrs.

Further Information

If you would like any further information regarding this course, please call an advisor today on 0121 392 8288 ( or email enquiries@stonebridge.uk.com

Tutor Support

With this course you will have unlimited access to your own personal tutor who specialises in their field of study. It is your personal tutor's role to ensure that you receive constructive feedback and to deal with any queries you may have. You are more than welcome to telephone, fax or email your personal tutor.

You will also have access to a dedicated and friendly team of administrators and course advisors who offer sound and professional guidance and advice when you need it. This ensures that you will never feel neglected and that you will always succeed!

Assessment Method

After each lesson there will be a question paper, which needs to be completed and submitted to your personal tutor for marking. This method of continual assessment ensures that your personal tutor can consistently monitor your progress and provide you with assistance throughout the duration of the course.

Student Zone

We understand that studying from home may be a new experience for you. You may even be feeling a bit apprehensive because you will not be studying in a traditional "classroom environment".

To help you overcome these concerns we have developed the Student Zone. The Student Zone, to which all of our students receive access, encourages a high level of interaction with your tutor and other like-minded students. Within this area you can:

• Access the Student Learning Community which allows you to connect with fellow students and gain the help and support you need.
• View your tutor's feedback on your marked assignments.
• View optional reading lists for your course (where available).
• Access free online games, for when you need a break from studying.
• View the study guide with plenty of useful hints and tips on how to get the most out of your course.
• Access free courses such as: Improving Learning Skills; Job Interview Skills; The Effective Learner; Goal Setting and Time Management; and Ten Tips to Complete a Good Test Paper.
• Find details on our generous Referral Programme.
And don’t forget our Facebook page where you will find tips, resources, games, competitions, and plenty of engagement and interaction from fellow students.