Access to HE Nursing Course in Chesterfield – Chesterfield College – Full-time

Cost£3,384.00
Duration1 year
LevelLevel 3
DeliveryClassroom based
Start14 Sep 2026
Study modeFull-time
AttendanceDaytime
Awarding bodyAim Awards awarding body

About this course

Access to HE Nursing Course in Chesterfield. Classes run full-time during the day at Chesterfield College, over one year. This level 3 access to HE nursing qualification is designed to prepare you for university-level study in nursing and related health subjects. It is recognised by UK universities as a route into degree programmes. To enrol, you'll need GCSE English at grade C or grade 4. If you don't yet have GCSE Maths at that grade, there may be an option to study maths alongside the course. You'll have a progression discussion at enrolment.

Who this course is for

16-18 Learners

Entry requirements

You must have a grade C/4 in GCSE English. We would also like you to have GCSE Maths C/4, however if you don’t, there could be an option to study GCSE Maths or FS Maths Level 2 alongside the Level 3 Access to HE course.

Enrolment will be subject to an initial progression discussion and, in cases where English and/or Maths are not currently held, an initial assessment may be required to determine the most appropriate level of entry.

What you will learn

  • You'll study the biological sciences underpinning nursing practice, including anatomy and physiology.
  • You'll develop academic writing and research skills needed for degree-level study.
  • You'll explore health, social care, and the principles behind patient care.
  • You'll build skills in critical thinking and evidence-based argument.
  • You'll learn how to plan, structure, and present academic assignments.
  • You'll gain an understanding of psychology and sociology relevant to health and nursing.

How you will learn

You'll learn through classroom-based sessions at Chesterfield College, combining taught lessons with guided study. Assessment is through written assignments and coursework rather than formal exams, which is typical of Access to HE programmes. Work is built up across the year and submitted as a portfolio of evidence. Your tutors will give feedback throughout to help you meet the standard universities expect.

What you will need to bring

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

Where next

Jobs you could do

  • Registered nurse: requires a nursing degree after this course.
  • Healthcare assistant: support patients in hospitals or community settings.
  • Nursing associate: a stepping-stone role within the NHS.
  • Care coordinator: organise and oversee care plans for patients.
  • Mental health support worker: work alongside clinical teams in mental health services.
  • Midwifery student: this course can also support entry to midwifery degrees.

What you could study next

  • BSc (Hons) Nursing (Adult, Mental Health, or Children's): the primary destination for most learners completing this access to HE nursing qualification. Universities across the UK recognise the AIM Qualifications Access to HE Diploma as a valid entry route.
  • BSc (Hons) Midwifery: if your interest is in maternity care, some universities accept this Diploma for midwifery degree entry.
  • Foundation Year in Health Sciences: an alternative first year at university if you want extra preparation before a full degree.

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