Access to HE Science Course in Bolton

Cost£3,384.00
Duration385 hours
LevelLevel 3
DeliveryClassroom based
Start14 Sep 2026
Study modeFull-time
AttendanceDaytime
Awarding bodyOpen Awards awarding body

About this course

Access to HE Science Course in Bolton. Classes run at Deane Road Campus, full-time during the day.

The course covers the science knowledge and skills you need to apply for a science-based degree. You'll study biology, chemistry, and related science topics over around 385 hours. Entry requires GCSE English, Maths, and Science at grade C or above. You may also need specific GCSEs depending on your chosen university course, so it's worth checking university entry requirements early.

You'll finish with an Open Awards Access to HE Diploma (Science), which is recognised by UK universities as a route into degree-level study.

Who this course is for

This one year, full-time course will help you achieve the qualification you need to gain entry to a degree course at university then a career as a pharmacist, paramedic scientist, medical technician, operating department practitioner, orthotics operative, occupational therapist, physiotherapist, radiotherapist and more.

Entry requirements

You will need English and Maths GCSE at grades 9-4 (A-C) as well as a Grade C/4 or above in GCSE Science prior to enrolling on this course.

You may also need additional GCSEs if they’re required for entry to your chosen university course, so you’re advised to investigate potential university progression routes to establish the specific entry requirements they may require.

What you will learn

  • You'll develop knowledge of core biology topics, including cells, genetics, and human physiology.
  • You'll study chemistry principles, including atomic structure, chemical reactions, and organic chemistry.
  • You'll build scientific literacy and the ability to interpret data and research.
  • You'll practise academic writing and essay skills needed for university study.
  • You'll learn how to plan and evaluate scientific investigations.
  • You'll gain an understanding of how science applies to health and medical careers.

How you will learn

You'll study in the classroom full-time during the day at Deane Road Campus. Learning is through a mix of taught sessions, guided study, and written assignments. The Access to HE Diploma is assessed through coursework and assignments rather than formal exams. You'll build a portfolio of work across the year that is graded and submitted to Open Awards.

What you will need to bring

The centre will provide most materials. Deane Road Campus will confirm anything else you need before you start.

Where next

Jobs you could do

  • Pharmacist, requires a pharmacy degree and registration after this course.
  • Paramedic, entry via a paramedic science degree at university.
  • Radiographer, requires a degree in diagnostic or therapeutic radiography.
  • Occupational therapist, requires an occupational therapy degree.
  • Physiotherapist, requires a physiotherapy degree from university.
  • Medical laboratory technician, works in clinical or research labs after degree study.
  • Operating department practitioner, supports surgical teams after qualifying.

What you could study next

  • BSc Biology, BSc Biomedical Science, or BSc Chemistry at university, the most direct next step after this Diploma.
  • BSc Pharmacy or MPharm, for those aiming toward a career as a pharmacist.
  • BSc Paramedic Science, for those interested in emergency and pre-hospital care.
  • BSc Physiotherapy or Occupational Therapy, for health and rehabilitation careers.

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