Access to Higher Education Diploma Social Work and Criminal Justice Pathway

Units and Structure

The course is made up as follows:

Core units:

• Sociology
• Psychology
• English and Cultural Studies

Subject specific units from:

• Politics
• History
• Business and Marketing
• Psychology
• Sociology
• Criminology

The course can be studied as follows:

One year programme (Studying at Level 3)

Timetabled sessions will be delivered using a blended approach which combines direct tutor contact with distance learning using the college virtual learning environment.  In addition, you will be expected to complete a minimum of 12 hours per week of independent study.

In preparation for achieving the level three Access to HE Diploma by the fastest route possible you should consider the following:

• Achieving (or updating) Maths to GCSE C or above Or the level 2 equivalent.
• Achieving (or updating) English to GCSE C or above.

(You can arrange a brush up on one or both of these subjects by contacting the basic skills team on 0800 358 7676.)

• Specific University entry requirements such as GCSEs or national qualifications.
• Specific University work experience requirements, either paid or voluntary.

Or why not consider doing our ‘Stepping up to Access’ course which can include GCSEs in Maths, English and  much more.

Once on the one year full-time course you will be required to complete an application for a University place straight away. Therefore, prior research is essential. Please refer to the University websites or visit http://www.ucas.ac.uk/ to explore your career options and/or visit our careers drop in service.

Please note: some university courses require that you must have RELEVANT work experience (paid or voluntary) prior to submitting your application for a university place.  If you need to do voluntary work to gain relevant experience then you will need to consider completing the Access course over 2 years-see details of our ‘Stepping up to Access’ level 2 course.

Entry Requirements

You'll need to have:

GCSEs in English at grade C or above.

In some cases, GCSE equivalences such as functional skills and  Key Skills, will be considered alongside diagnostic and departmental assessment results.

Please make sure you bring copies of your existing qualifications with you to the interview.

Recruitment onto Access courses is a three stage process which begins following receipt of your application.

This process will be used to provide individual guidance onto an appropriate level/route of study.

• Stage One: Skills Review (Maths and English).
• Stage Two: Diagnostic Assessment (A more in depth Maths and English assessment).
• Stage Three: Interview.

Offers are made on a first come, first served basis, following the interview. Failure to attend any one of these stages could impact on your chances of securing a place.

For equivalent qualifications see our Entry Requirements Explained page.

Tutors and Student Support

Student Support and Facilities

As a student, you’ll have access to a wide range of facilities, services and support, including:

• Step outside the classroom  and access our state of the art facilities as well as 3 huge Learning Resource Centres with thousands of resources to use
• With hands-on experience you’ll be prepared for employment with a competitive edge.
• A dedicated impartial careers advice team to help you on your future path
• Our wide range of courses means that we can offer the right paths to get you where you need to be
• Our Hub campus is right in the heart of the town centre meaning you can find your way to us easily
• Outstanding student support throughout your studies with us.