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Access to Higher Education

Students who are studying on the Access to HE; Science diploma at Harrow College study 15 credits of Chemistry, 15 credits of Biology, 9 credits of Mathematics, 6 credits of Physics and 15 credits of Study Skills.

  • Entry requirements

    GCSE grades 9-4 (grade A- C) in GCSE Mathematics.
    Preferably GCSE grades 9-4 (grade A
    - C) in GCSE English
    Preferably GCSE grades 9-4 (grade A*- C) in GCSE Science

  • Who is the course for?

    The Access to Higher Education Diploma (Science) is a Level 3 qualification which prepares people, above the age of 19, without traditional qualifications for study at university.
    The qualification gives you the relevant academic subject knowledge needed for higher education study and the opportunity to develop study skills to help you to succeed. It is well established and widely accepted by universities, qualifying for UCAS tariff points that are comparable to the tariff points for three A levels.

  • Study methods

    You will be taught through a variety of study methods which may include the following: classroom teaching, home learning, practical activities, presentations, group work and research.

  • How is the course assessed?

    This is a coursework-based course in which the forms of assessment may include: written reports, presentations, tests, examinations and practical experiments.

    Students must complete 60 credits to gain the Access to HE qualification. Of these credits, 45 credits are graded as pass, merit or distinction and 15 credits are ungraded.

  • More information

    Harrow College's Access Higher Education Diploma courses offer localised learning in an affordable and supportive environment to progress your learning to the next stage. The college has excellent links with several universities and will work to actively progress your education.

    The Access to Higher Education Diploma course involves approximately 15 hours of tuition per week, supplemented with home based study. You will receive tuition in Study Skills in addition to your specialist subject. Your personal tutor, ALF tutor and the Careers team will offer you support and advice throughout your course.

    Some students may be eligible to apply for the Discretionary Learner Support Fund; financial support may be available towards childcare.

  • Where Next – Job Opportunities

    With further training or study, students go into a range of careers which may include the following:
    •Forensic Science
    •Food Technology
    •Analytical Science
    •Quality Control
    •Environmental Science
    •Engineering

  • Where Next – Further Studies

    Learners often but not exclusively progress to Higher Education study in areas related to Science . Biomedical science is always a popular choice.

    Our latest cohort of Access to Science students progressed on to a range of diverse degree courses such as: Nursing, Biomedical sciences, Nutrition, Veterinary Nursing, Neuroscience, Biochemistry and Clinical Biochemistry, Mechanical Engineering, Computer Science, Chemistry, Psychology, Physiotherapy, Nutrition and Dietetics with Foundation Year and Environmental Geoscience.

  • How to apply

    To apply for a course either click the APPLY NOW button - fill out the form online and submit

    OR download an application form here and post it to the address on the form.
    When we have received your application we will contact you to arrange an interview time.

Course starting Sep 2025

Starts 9 September 2025

Duration 1 Year(s)

Location Harrow on the Hill Campus

Days/Time Monday-Thursday
09:00 - 17:00