Access to HE Humanities and Social Science Course in Lincoln – Lincoln College

Cost£3,022.00
Duration36 weeks
LevelLevel 3
DeliveryClassroom based
Start1 Sep 2026
Study modeFull-time
AttendanceDaytime
Awarding bodyCAVA

About this course

Access to HE Humanities and Social Science Course in Lincoln. Classes run at Lincoln College, full-time during the day. This is a Level 3 access to HE humanities and social science qualification designed for adults aged 19 or over who want to move into higher education. The course runs over 36 weeks and covers the academic skills universities expect, including essay writing, seminar discussion, and critical thinking. It is a recognised university access course, accepted by UK universities in place of A levels.

Who this course is for

The Access to University programme (Access to HE Diploma) is designed to equip students with the skills and knowledge needed for Higher Education. The course is tailored to improve confidence in lectures, seminars and discussion groups as well as writing essays. It is an intensive course intended for mature students (minimum age 19 years) and is especially intended for those who are returning to education after several years or looking for a ‘new start’.

Most students study Psychology and Sociology but there are options to combine one of these subjects with either History or English Literature. Successful completion of the course is designed to allow you direct entry into Higher Education after one year of study (as opposed to the two years for the A level route) on to a wide range of degree courses such as Social Work, Psychology, Sociology, Social Policy, Politics, Social Science etc.

The vast majority of students achieve a place at their first choice institution and whilst most mature students elect to study locally at one of Lincoln’s two universities, previous students have obtained places at UK wide universities including the prestigious ‘Russell Group’ institutions including Cambridge, Edinburgh, Bristol, Durham etc.

What you will learn

  • You'll develop essay writing skills to the standard universities expect.
  • You'll practise contributing to seminars, lectures, and group discussions.
  • You'll study core humanities and social science subjects such as psychology and sociology.
  • You'll build critical thinking and analytical skills for degree-level study.
  • You'll learn how to research, reference, and structure academic arguments.

How you will learn

You'll learn through classroom sessions including lectures, seminars, and group discussions. Assessment is through a portfolio of assignments completed across the year. There is no final exam. Work is assessed by tutors at the college and then moderated externally to meet the national standard set for Access to HE Diplomas.

What you will need to bring

The centre will provide most materials. Lincoln College will confirm anything else you need before you start.

Where next

Jobs you could do

  • Social worker: supports individuals and families through statutory services.
  • Counsellor or therapist: provides talking therapies in community or clinical settings.
  • Community support worker: works with vulnerable adults or young people.
  • Researcher or policy analyst: works in public sector or think-tank roles.
  • Journalist or writer: covers social affairs, culture, or current events.
  • HR advisor: supports people and organisations in workplace settings.

What you could study next

This qualification is recognised by UK universities as meeting entry requirements for degree programmes. Most learners go on to study a BA or BSc in a subject such as psychology, sociology, history, criminology, or social work. Some universities also offer foundation years if you want an extra year of transition before the full degree. Check individual university entry requirements, as some courses ask for specific subject units within your Access to HE Diploma.

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