Access to Higher Education (HE) Diplomas in London

Level 3 Diploma – Access to Higher Education (Nursing)

Course Overview

The Access to Higher Education Diploma (Nursing) is a nationally recognised Level 3 qualification designed to prepare adult learners for study at university.

The course is intended for individuals who wish to progress to a degree in nursing or a related healthcare profession but may not currently meet the traditional entry qualifications.

Equivalent to three A‑Levels, the Access to HE Diploma provides the academic knowledge, study skills and confidence required to succeed in higher education.

Qualification Details

Qualification: Level 3 Diploma – Access to Higher Education (Nursing)

Level: Level 3

Total Credits: 60 credits

Graded Credits: 45 credits

Ungraded Credits: 15 credits

Awarding Body: Skills and Education Group Access

Recognition: QAA recognised Access to HE Diploma

Eligibility to Study

The Access to HE Diploma is designed for adult learners aged 19 or over who wish to progress to university but do not currently hold the qualifications normally required for higher education entry.

This course may be suitable for you if you:

• Are aged 19 or over

• Want to progress to a nursing or healthcare degree

• Do not currently hold A‑Levels or equivalent Level 3 qualifications

• Are returning to education after a break

• Are motivated to study at an intensive Level 3 academic level

Entry Requirements

Typical entry requirements include:

• Age 19+

• GCSE English and Maths at Grade 4 (C) or above, or Functional Skills Level 2 (recommended)

• Commitment to higher education study

• Successful completion of an initial assessment or interview

Course Structure

The Access to HE Diploma consists of 60 credits structured as follows:

• 45 graded credits (subject units)

• 15 ungraded credits (study skills units)

Example Units of Study

Health and Science Units:

• Human Biology

• Health Studies

• Psychology

• Anatomy and Physiology

• Disease and Health

Academic Skills Units:

• Preparing for Higher Education

• Academic Writing

• Research Skills

• Critical Thinking

• Study Skills

Assessment Methods

Assessment is coursework-based and may include:

• Essays

• Written assignments

• Research reports

• Presentations

• Case studies

Grades awarded: Pass, Merit, Distinction.

Progression to Higher Education

Successful completion of the Access to HE Diploma enables learners to apply to university through UCAS.

Typical progression routes include:

• Adult Nursing

• Mental Health Nursing

• Children’s Nursing

• Learning Disability Nursing

• Midwifery

• Paramedic Science

• Allied Health Professions

Course Delivery

Duration: Approximately 1 academic year

Study Mode: Classroom or blended learning

Start Dates: September or January

Weekly Study Commitment: Approximately 12–15 hours

Fees and Funding

This course may be eligible for the Advanced Learner Loan for learners aged 19+.

The loan can cover the full course fee, and repayments only begin once income exceeds the government repayment threshold.

If the learner completes a higher education degree, the loan may be written off.

Information, Advice and Guidance

Learners receive comprehensive support, including:

• Personal tutoring

• Academic mentoring

• UCAS application guidance

• Personal statement support

• Career advice

Awarding Body

This qualification is validated by Skills and Education Group Access, an Access Validating Agency licensed by the Quality Assurance Agency for Higher Education (QAA).