Access to Higher Education Diploma (Social Science and Humanities)

Embark on an Access to HE Diploma (Social Science and Humanities), and you could be one step closer to achieving an undergraduate degree. This specific qualification offers a balance of sociological, historical, political and psychological units and promises to prepare students for the academic demands of student life. This course is particularly suitable for students with a critical mind and a keen interest in how society functions.

Courses like the Access to HE Diploma (Social Science and Humanities) have been designed especially for individuals who want to attend university, but do not currently hold the qualifications needed to meet the entry requirements. The course will help students to develop their confidence, hone their writing and research skills and allow them to ease themselves back into education.

Another benefit of studying with Stonebridge is that students don’t have to wait until September to enrol on a course and start studying. We know time is precious and we don’t want to waste it. If you choose us, you can begin studying as soon as you enrol; whether it is September or any other time of the year. Furthermore, when you study with us, you don’t have time-consuming classes to attend. Your entire qualification can be completed from the comfort of your own home. All you will need is access to the internet.

How does my Access to HE Diploma work?

At Stonebridge, we pride ourselves on offering a student-led experience. This means that your Access to HE Diploma will work around you. Once you have enrolled, we will provide you with access to our online course materials and supply you with all the information you need to get started.

This flexibility is great for learners with busy work and family lives; however some people initially worry about the independence and lack of structure. At Stonebridge, we know this can be daunting, which is why students can get in touch with our tutors. Our experienced tutors will be contactable via phone, our online platform, PEARL and email and will be able to help you with assessments, timetabling and any worries or anxieties concerning your studies. Students will also be able to talk among each other using our unique online platform.

How long it takes you to complete your Access course really depends upon how much time you are able to dedicate to your studies. The programmes are designed to give you the flexibility to study at times that are suitable for you, and to fit your studies around your other commitments. The maximum time you have to complete your Diploma is outlined in your Individual Learning Plan (ILP). The minimum time you can complete your Access course is six months.

How will my Access to HE Diploma be assessed?

Your Access to HE Diploma (Social Science and Humanities) combines a number of educational units. For each unit, you will be required to complete an assignment. This assignment will display to us how far you have understood the content. All assessments will be marked by a tutor and returned to you, along with some useful feedback. Once all assessments have been completed and marked, we will be able to award you with a number of credits. In order to achieve the Access to HE Diploma you must earn 60 credits altogether. You should be aware that 45 of these credits are taken from graded units which are concerned with academic subject content. The remaining 15 credits are ungraded units which are included to help you to develop your study skills. The Access to HE Diploma is a nationally recognised Level 3 qualification, regulated by the Quality Assurance Agency (QAA).

What happens after the Access to HE Diploma?

By the end of your time with Stonebridge, you should feel ready and raring to pursue university level study. If you work hard, your Access to HE Diploma could be your entrance ticket to the university of your choice. In fact, many universities across the UK are especially enthusiastic about admitting students holding this type of qualification. This is because many Access to HE Diploma students have greater life experience and unwavering dedication.

Once you have completed your degree programme, you will have a vast choice of careers or progression opportunities. Social sciences and humanities are relevant in almost every professional field. You could end up working in one of these jobs:

• Teaching
• Management
• Charity work
• Social and youth work
• Local government
• Public Services
• Human Resources

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: The Origins of The Welfare State

On completion of this unit you will:

• Understand what is meant by the term social welfare.
• Know the purpose of the 1834 Poor Law Amendment Act and its effects on society.
• Explain and discuss early twentieth century Liberal Reforms and their effect on society.
• Recognise the significance of the Beveridge Report.
• Recognise the social problems which the Welfare State attempted to address.

Unit 6: 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 7: Political Parties

On completion of this unit you will:

• Understand the role of political parties in the British Political System.
• Understand the difference between a single party, dominant party, two-party and multi-party system.
• Understand the development, policies and structure of the Labour Party.
• Understand the development, policies and structure of the Conservative Party.
• Understand the development, policies and structure of the Liberal Democrats and the Minor Parties.

Unit 8: Prime Ministers, Ministers & Civil Servants

On completion of this unit you will:

• Understand what is meant by ‘Cabinet Government’.
• Understand the extent to which Britain has moved to a system of ‘Prime Ministerial Government’.
• Understand the roles and responsibilities of Ministers.
• Understand the role of Civil Servants and their channels of influence.
• Understand how the position of the Civil Service has changed over the past 20 years.

Unit 9: Britain & Europe

On completion of this unit you will:

• Understand why the EEC was established and why Britain’s attitude towards it changed.
• Understand the development of the political parties’ views on Europe.
• Understand how the structures of the EU work.
• Understand the impact of EU membership on British politics and the future prospects for the EU.

Unit 10: Introduction to Psychology   

On completion of this unit you will:

• Understand the importance of research in psychology
• Understand the main approaches in psychology.
• Understand ethical issues in psychological research.

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: Introduction to Cognitive Psychology   

On completion of this unit you will:

• Understand research in an area of cognitive psychology.
• Understand how the findings of research into cognitive processes can be applied to real-life issues. 

Unit 13:  Introduction To Sociology

On completion of this unit you will:

• Understand the sociological approach and its distinction from common sense and other social sciences.
• Understand basic concepts in sociological explanation.
• Understand contrasting sociological perspectives.
• Understand concepts and perspectives relating to a specific social institution.

Unit 14:  Sociology of Education

On completion of this unit you will:

• Understand the importance of education as a socialising agency.
• Understand the roles of education in contemporary society.
• Understand the sociological explanations of labelling and the use of stereotypes.
• Understand the concept of meritocracy.

Unit 15:  Understanding Crime & Deviance

On completion of this unit you will:

• Understand explanations of crime and deviance.
• Know theories of crime and deviance.
• Understand perceptions of crime and deviance.

Unit 16:  Industrial Change in Britain 1700-1850

On completion of this unit you will:

• Understand the pattern of industry and urban society c1700-1760.
• Understand the causes and nature of industrial change in Britain c1760-1850.
• Understand the impact of industrial change on British social, economic and political life by 1850.

Unit 17: Imperialism in the Late 19th Century

On completion of this unit you will:

• Understand the importance of economics in late 19th century imperialism.
• Understand the Political importance of late 19th century imperialism.
• Understand the effect of late 19th century imperialism on the continent of Africa.

Unit 18: Introduction to Political Ideologies

On completion of this unit you will:

• Understand what is meant by a political ideology.
• Understand the functions of political ideologies.
• Understand the different types of political ideologies.
• Understand the value of political ideologies.

Unit 19: Social Change in Britain 1914-1939

On completion of this unit you will:

• Understand the impact of World War 1 on British society.
• Understand the social consequences of unemployment during the period 1918 – 1939.
• Understand the nature and consequences of housing and health problems during the
• period 1918 – 1939.
• Understand developments in family life, leisure opportunities and living standards.

Unit 20:  Public Health during the 18th & 19th Centuries

On completion of this unit you will:

• Understand the nature of urban development and public health during the 18th Century.
• Understand the causes and effects of public health problems in the 19th Century.
• Understand the nature and impact of attempts to address public health problems in the 19th Century.

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: 0 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 (Social Science and Humanities)

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 Social Science or Humanities 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:

• Achievement of a certain amount of Access to HE Diploma units at Merit of above.
• 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/or Maths 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):

Open College Network West Midlands

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.

 

Professional Membership

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

Open College Network West Midlands

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.

 

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

This course is currently only available to be studied via 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: 0 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.