Access to HE Environmental Science Online

Cost£3,384.00
Duration2 years
LevelLevel 3
DeliveryOnline
Start15 Feb 2027
Study modePart-time
Awarding bodyAscentis awarding body

About this course

Access to HE Environmental Science. Study online at your own pace over two years, fitting learning around your existing commitments.

You need to be aged 19 or over and living in the UK. You'll also need GCSE Maths and GCSE English Language at grade C or grade 4 or above, or a Functional Skills Level 2 equivalent. An Advanced Learner Loan can cover fees, and adults without a full Level 3 qualification may qualify for a free place.

The course covers environmental science topics designed to prepare you for degree-level study. You'll finish with an Ascentis Access to HE Diploma in Environmental Science.

Who this course is for

If you live in England, you might be able to do this course for FREE. Apply today, and our dedicated admissions team will confirm whether you qualify for a free place, with no obligation.

If you’re interested in a rewarding career, are aged 19 or over and aspire to go to university to study for your degree, our Access to Higher Education Diploma Online is the perfect pathway for you.

Our fully online Access to HE Diploma (Environmental Science) is widely recognised and accepted by UK universities, making it your fast-track route to gain the skills, qualification and solid academic foundation you need to progress to university and a fulfilling career in the profession you have always wanted! The course is validated and moderated by Ascentis under license from the Quality Assurance Agency for Higher Education and comprises 60 credits, of which 45 are graded and 15 are ungraded, with each component purposefully designed to maximise your development and prepare you for successful completion of the qualification to confidently progress to university.

Benefits of studying with Activate Learning:

We believe that a busy life shouldn't be a barrier to a better career. Our Flexible-Structured Model gives you the best of both worlds: the freedom to study when you want, with the structure you need to stay on track.

Focused Unit Progression: Study one unit at a time. This lets you immerse yourself in a single subject, master the concepts, and move on to the next.

Flexible Study, Fixed Milestones: Each unit has a fixed submission date to keep you on track to your diploma, but you decide when and where you study.

The "Webinar-to-1-1" Cycle: Each unit begins with a live group webinar held in the evening. Your tutor will guide you through the requirements, explain key concepts, and offer assignment guidance.

Entry requirements

You must meet the following entry criteria:

  • Be aged 19+ at the start of the academic year.
  • Be living in the UK.
  • Hold a grade C/4 or above in GCSE maths and GCSE English Language or equivalent such as Functional Skills Level 2. If you hold international qualifications, we can assess these to see if you meet the criteria.

For your application to be processed, we are required to view your official certificates.

What you will learn

  • You'll study core environmental science concepts, including ecology, climate, and earth systems.
  • You'll develop scientific skills in data analysis and research methods.
  • You'll explore environmental policy and sustainability issues.
  • You'll build academic writing and critical thinking skills needed for university study.
  • You'll complete assignments that mirror the demands of degree-level work.

How you will learn

You study entirely online, working through course materials at your own pace. Assessment is through written assignments and coursework rather than formal exams. You submit work online and receive tutor feedback throughout the course. There are no set classroom sessions, so you can study when it suits you.

What you will need to bring

You'll need a device with a reliable internet connection to access your online course materials. You'll also need your official GCSE certificates (or equivalent) as part of your application. Activate Learning at City of Oxford College will confirm anything else you need before you start.

Where next

Jobs you could do

  • Environmental consultant, advises organisations on environmental impact and compliance.
  • Conservation officer, works to protect natural habitats and wildlife.
  • Environmental technician, supports monitoring and data collection in the field.
  • Sustainability coordinator, helps businesses reduce their environmental footprint.
  • Science communicator, explains environmental topics to public or media audiences.
  • Research assistant, supports academic or government environmental research teams.

What you could study next

  • A bachelor's degree in Environmental Science or a related subject (Level 6), the most direct next step after this Diploma and the route into most professional roles in the sector.
  • A bachelor's degree in Geography, Biology, or Ecology (Level 6), for learners whose interests lean toward a related discipline.
  • A foundation degree in Environmental Management (Level 5), a shorter higher education route if a full degree is not the immediate goal.