Access to HE Business Course. Study online, at your own pace, from wherever suits you. It may be free if you are 16 to 18 years old. If you are 19 or over, fees may apply depending on your residency, educational background, and personal circumstances. The course covers the fundamentals of business organisation, management, leadership, and wider business contexts. It is designed for adult learners returning to education and preparing for university-level study. UK universities recognise the Access to HE Diploma as a route into degree programmes.
Who this course is for
The Access to Higher Education Diploma (Business) course consists of modules designed to provide a good grounding in the fundamentals of businesses, their management and context. The Access to HE Diploma aims to support adult learners in your return to education and progression towards higher education study at university. The course is designed to provide a good grounding in the fundamentals of business organisation, management and leadership, as well as wider contexts and specialisms such as finance, marketing and entrepreneurship.
Entry requirements
Please check our website for entry requirements
What you will learn
You'll explore how businesses are organised and how they operate
You'll study management and leadership principles
You'll examine the wider economic and social contexts that shape business decisions
You'll develop academic writing and critical thinking skills needed for university study
You'll analyse real business scenarios and apply theoretical frameworks
You'll build knowledge of specialist business areas such as finance and entrepreneurship
How you will learn
You study online, working through modules at a pace that fits your schedule. Assessment is through written assignments and coursework rather than formal exams. Each module has its own assessed tasks. You submit work online and receive feedback to guide your progress. Check the college website for the full entry requirements before you apply.
What you will need to bring
The centre will provide most materials. Middlesbrough College Dock Street will confirm anything else you need before you start.
Where next
Jobs you could do
Business administrator - supporting operations across a wide range of organisations
Marketing assistant - coordinating campaigns and communications for businesses
HR assistant - supporting recruitment, training, and employee relations
Accounts assistant - handling financial records and basic bookkeeping
Office manager - overseeing day-to-day business administration
Customer service team leader - managing service delivery and staff in a business setting
What you could study next
BA (Hons) Business Management - the most direct next step; universities accept the Access to HE Diploma as a standard entry qualification for business degrees.
BA (Hons) Accounting and Finance - if the financial modules spark an interest in pursuing accountancy or finance at degree level.
BA (Hons) Marketing - for those drawn to the marketing and communications aspects of the course.
AAT Level 3 Diploma in Accounting - a professional accounting route if you prefer a vocational qualification alongside or instead of a degree.
