Access to HE Social Science Course in Paignton. Classes run at South Devon College, part-time during the day, over one year. This is a university access course designed for adults who want to move into higher education at a manageable pace. You'll study social science topics including sociology, building the knowledge and academic skills universities look for. Entry requirements include a GCSE in Maths or English at grade C or above. If you have one but not the other, you may be asked to study the missing GCSE alongside this course. The AIM Qualifications Access to HE Diploma (Social Science) is recognised by UK universities for degree entry.
Who this course is for
Are you ready to take the next step towards university but don’t yet have the qualifications to get there? The Access to Higher Education Diploma in Social Science with Sociology is designed specifically for adults who are returning to education and want to pursue a degree in the social sciences or a related field. This one-year, full-time programme is the ideal preparation for anyone interested in building a career in areas such as: Social Work Criminal Justice & Law Probation & Policing Counselling & Mental Health Teaching & Pastoral Support Youth Work Psychology & Sociology Welfare or ‘Helping’ Professions You’ll study three core academic subjects - Psychology, Criminology, and Sociology - alongside dedicated sessions in study skills, academic writing, and UCAS guidance to support your transition into higher education. This course is widely recognised by universities and offers direct progression into degree-level study in areas including social work, teaching, psychology, counselling, criminology and more. If you’re under 24 and haven’t yet achieved a Level 3 qualification, your course may be fully funded. Alternatively, you can apply for an Advanced Learner Loan, which is written off upon successful completion of a university degree. You’ll attend classes three days per week, with additional study expected outside of classroom time to complete your assignments. If you prefer to study part-time, click here to view the part-time option. The diploma is accredited by AIM Qualifications and Assessment Group, and successful completion offers progression to a range of foundation degrees at University Centre South Devon, including: FdSc Psychology and Criminology FdSc Youth Justice and Youth Studies FdSc Psychology and Sociology FdSc Psychology and Counselling FdA Education and Childhood FdSc Assistant Practitioner FdSc Nursing Associate FdSc Law with Business Find out more at www.ucsd.ac.uk or email [email protected]
Entry requirements
You must have a GCSE Grade 4(C) in Maths, You must have a GCSE Grade 4(C) in English,
What you will learn
You'll develop an understanding of key social science theories and concepts.
You'll study sociology and how society shapes behaviour, identity, and inequality.
You'll explore topics relevant to social work, criminal justice, counselling, and related fields.
You'll build academic writing and critical thinking skills needed for university study.
You'll learn how to research, reference, and construct arguments at degree-entry level.
You'll gain an understanding of policy, law, and social structures as they affect people's lives.
How you will learn
You'll learn through classroom-based sessions at South Devon College, attending part-time during the day. Assessment is through a combination of written assignments and coursework. The Access to HE Diploma uses a credit-based model: you'll complete graded units that contribute to your final profile, which universities use when considering your application. There are no formal written exams in the traditional sense; your work is assessed continuously throughout the year.
What you will need to bring
The centre will provide most materials. South Devon College will confirm anything else you need before you start.
Where next
Jobs you could do
Social worker: support individuals and families through statutory services.
Probation officer: work with offenders on rehabilitation and community orders.
Counsellor or mental health support worker: provide emotional and therapeutic support.
Community support worker: help vulnerable adults or young people in the community.
Police officer or PCSO: roles in policing that value social science knowledge.
Teaching assistant or pastoral support officer: support pupils' wellbeing in schools.
Youth worker: work with young people in community or educational settings.
What you could study next
BA (Hons) Social Work: a degree required to practise as a qualified social worker in the UK.
BA (Hons) Criminology or Criminal Justice: builds directly on the social science foundation of this course.
BA (Hons) Psychology or Counselling: a route toward therapeutic and mental health roles.
BA (Hons) Sociology: deepens the academic study begun on this course.
Most UK universities accept the Access to HE Diploma for entry to relevant degree programmes. Check individual university entry requirements, as some competitive courses may ask for specific unit grades.
