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Access to HE Science Course in Northampton

CostCheck if you can do this free
Duration1 year
LevelLevel 3
DeliveryClassroom based
Start14 Sep 2026
Study modeFull-time
AttendanceDaytime
Awarding bodyAim Awards awarding body

Free or reduced fees may be available, depending on your circumstances. Northampton College lists a fee of £3,384 if you're not eligible. Advanced Learner Loan available. Contact Northampton College for more info.

Apply now →Check if you're eligible

About this course

Access to HE Science Course in Northampton. Classes run at Northampton College, full-time during the day.

Funding may be available depending on your age and previous qualifications. An Advanced Learner Loan is also an option if you're 19 or over. The course covers human biology, biochemistry, chemistry, physics, maths, and statistics over one year. You'll also study study skills and complete a practical investigation. Units are assessed internally through assignments, and you build a portfolio as you progress.

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

Who this course is for

Students aged 19+ who have been out of education for at least one year post 18 study and aiming to go on to university to study for a Degree or equivalent in a STEM related course. It is also an appropriate course for those wishing to progress into the Allied Health Professions which may require a physics or chemistry element such as radiography, paramedic science, medical technician. Students who are 18 without a year out of education, may be considered but they will need to have an interview with the course coordinator prior to the course starting. Please apply to the course and our Enrolment Team will ask the tutor to contact you if you will be 18 years old at the start of the course.

Entry requirements

GCSE English and maths at Grade 4/C are required as these are the minimum required by most universities for degree pathways and students are expected to have achieved these already. Due to the demands of the Access to HE Diploma courses, it will not be possible to take any GCSEs alongside this study. GCSEs required for college and/or University entrance must be passed at grade 4/C prior to enrolling for the Access to HE Diploma course.

What you will learn

  • You'll study human biology, including the skeleton, muscles, nutrition, and digestion.
  • You'll explore biochemistry and the regulation and control of biological processes.
  • You'll cover core chemistry, including energetics, hydrocarbons, and practical experiments.
  • You'll study medical physics and its applications.
  • You'll develop maths and statistics skills to support scientific study.
  • You'll practise academic study skills and independent research.
  • You'll complete an introductory practical investigation.

How you will learn

The course is classroom based with timetabled sessions at Northampton College. All units are compulsory and assessed internally. You'll complete written assignments and build a portfolio of work throughout the year. There are also internal exams and tutorials. Independent study and research are expected alongside class time.

What you will need to bring

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

Where next

Jobs you could do

  • Radiographer, diagnoses and treats patients using imaging technology.
  • Paramedic, provides emergency medical care in the community.
  • Medical laboratory technician, analyses samples to support clinical diagnosis.
  • Biomedical scientist, works in hospital labs on disease investigation.
  • Science technician, supports research or teaching in a lab setting.
  • Healthcare scientist, works across a range of NHS diagnostic services.

What you could study next

  • BSc in Biology, Chemistry, or Physics, the natural next step after this qualification.
  • BSc in Biomedical Science, a popular route for those interested in healthcare and research.
  • BSc in Radiography or Paramedic Science, for those aiming at allied health professions.
  • BSc in Nursing, where some universities accept the Access to HE Diploma (Science) as entry.
Apply on northamptoncollege.ac.uk →Check if you're eligible
Apply now →Check if you're eligible

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