Access to HE Health Science Professions Course Online – Bournemouth & Poole College

Cost£3,384.00
Duration1 year
LevelLevel 3
DeliveryOnline
Start2 Sep 2026
Awarding bodySEGA

About this course

Access to HE Health Science Professions Course. Study online at your own pace, completing assignments independently to set deadlines. The recommended study time is 20 to 30 hours per week, and the course takes around one year. It is designed for adults who want to move into Higher Education in health, nursing, midwifery, or allied health professions but do not hold traditional sixth-form or vocational qualifications. The course is recognised by UK universities as a route into degree programmes. Government funding may cover fees if you do not already hold a full Level 3 qualification.

Who this course is for

This is a nationally recognised, Access to HE courses designed for students who are planning to continue with their career related studies into Higher Education in a wide range of Health, Nursing, Midwifery or Allied Health Professions. We work in close partnership with local universities and many students use this Access to HE courses as a route into a full degree. This course is designed for over 19-year-olds. This is an online distance learning course which requires applicants to be highly motivated, self-directed learners. The recommended study time for this course is 20-30 hours per week, where you complete modules and assignments independently and in your own time to set deadlines. You will have a dedicated tutor to support and guide you through the Access course requirements and university application process. Bursaries for Nursing students Students progressing to university will now have access to new annual payments of at least £5,000 if they study eligible Nursing, Midwifery and Allied Health courses. Best of all, they won’t need to be repaid! Find out more at healthcareers.nhs.uk/nursing-careers/annual-nursing-payments

Entry requirements

Adults enrolling on an Access to HE course have made a conscious decision to return to education, bringing a commitment and wider life experience to their studies. Our Access course is designed to reflect this with applicants demonstrating clear commitment, maturity and motivation. The course is intended for adults who do not have traditional sixth-form or vocational qualifications, allowing them to prepare for and gain entry to degrees and other Higher Education programmes. Learners are admit

What you will learn

  • You'll study the structure and function of cells, the nervous system, and the musculoskeletal system.
  • You'll explore the endocrine system, human reproduction, and genetic inheritance.
  • You'll examine the diagnosis and management of physiological disorders.
  • You'll develop healthcare communication skills relevant to professional settings.
  • You'll investigate bio-psychology, including behaviour, the brain, and the effects of drugs.
  • You'll build the academic skills needed to write assignments and meet university entry requirements.
  • You'll navigate the university application process with support from a dedicated tutor.

How you will learn

This is an online distance learning course. You complete modules and assignments independently, in your own time, to set deadlines. A dedicated tutor supports you throughout and guides you through the university application process. Assessment is through written assignments submitted online.

What you will need to bring

The centre will provide most materials. Bournemouth & Poole College will confirm anything else you need before you start.

Where next

Jobs you could do

  • Registered Nurse: degree-level role in NHS or private healthcare
  • Midwife: degree-level role supporting women through pregnancy and birth
  • Occupational Therapist: helps people regain independence after illness or injury
  • Operating Department Practitioner: supports surgical teams in theatre
  • Dental Hygienist: provides preventive dental care in clinical settings
  • Physiotherapist: assesses and treats movement and pain conditions
  • Radiographer: uses imaging technology to diagnose and treat patients

What you could study next

This Diploma is a stepping stone to degree-level study. Most graduates go on to apply for:

  • BSc Nursing (Adult, Mental Health, or Children's)
  • BSc Midwifery
  • BSc Occupational Therapy
  • BSc Physiotherapy
  • BSc Operating Department Practice
  • BSc Dental Hygiene and Therapy

Students progressing to eligible nursing, midwifery, and allied health degrees may qualify for NHS annual payments of at least £5,000, which do not need to be repaid.

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