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.
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This qualification is recognised by UK universities as meeting undergraduate entry requirements. Most students go on to apply for a BA or BSc in subjects such as Psychology, Sociology, Social Work, History, or English. Some universities offer guaranteed interview or conditional offers to Access to HE Diploma holders. If you want to study part-time, many universities accept the Diploma for part-time undergraduate entry too. Check individual university entry requirements, as offers vary by institution and course.




