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Access to HE Health Science Course in Stevenage

CostCheck if you can do this free
Duration34 weeks
LevelLevel 3
DeliveryClassroom based
Start2 Sep 2027
Study modeFull-time
AttendanceDaytime
Awarding bodyGateway Qualifications awarding body

Free or reduced fees may be available, depending on your circumstances. £3,384 if you're not eligible for free funding. Advanced Learner Loan available. Contact North Hertfordshire College for more info.

Apply now →Check if you're eligible

About this course

Access to HE Diploma (Health Science) in Stevenage. Classes run at North Hertfordshire College Stevenage Centre, full-time over 34 weeks. It's free for some learners, and fees may apply for others. An Advanced Learner Loan may also be available.

This Level 3 access to HE health science course is designed for people who want to move into university study without traditional A-levels. You'll study Chemistry, Biology, and a third specialist subject alongside academic writing and numeracy. Assignments, presentations, practical tests, and exams make up the assessment.

You'll finish with a Gateway Qualifications Access to HE Diploma in Health Science, recognised by UK universities as a route into degree-level study.

Who this course is for

Our access to higher education diplomas are level 3 qualifications that prepare you for study at university. They're particularly relevant if you do not have traditional qualifications such as A-levels. They'll help you develop your academic and study skills as well as your confidence.This course is assessed through assignments, practical tests, presentations and exams.You will study application of numbers and English skills as well as three specialist subjects:Chemistry starts with exploring chemistry fundamentals and principals. These lay the theoretical and practical foundations for subsequent study. Two units relate to organic chemistry (introduction to organic chemistry and organic and biochemical molecules). You will then study one unit in energetics and kinetics.Human biology introduces you to the complexity of life processes. You will explore cells, biochemistry, the basic structure and function of different body systems and mechanisms involved in nutrition and digestion. The final biology unit focuses on genetics and evolution.Maths for scientists supports, in particular, your study of chemistry. The unit develops your ability to manipulate algebraic expressions and demonstrate an understanding of the laws of exponential growth and decay.In addition to these specialist subjects, you will study how to promote your own and others? well-being and build resilience. This will help you cope with the demands of the course and your future career.In the final weeks of the course, you will complete a piece of research on a topic of your choice.You will also complete a research unit.

Entry requirements

There are no formal entry requirements but you must be considering entering higher education. All prospective students will need to attend an information event followed by diagnostics and interview. Students given a conditional offer will need to supply a reference and complete a series of tasks before being invited to enrol on the programme.To ensure progression to university you should ensure that you meet the GCSE/Functional Skills requirements of different universities.

What you will learn

  • You'll study core Chemistry, including atomic structure and chemical reactions.
  • You'll explore Biology topics relevant to health and human science.
  • You'll develop academic writing and essay skills for university-level work.
  • You'll strengthen your application of numbers and mathematical reasoning.
  • You'll practise presenting information clearly through presentations and reports.
  • You'll build the study and research skills universities expect at degree level.

How you will learn

You'll learn through classroom sessions at the centre. Assessment includes written assignments, practical tests, presentations, and exams. All prospective students attend an information event, then complete diagnostics and an interview. If you receive a conditional offer, you'll supply a reference and complete a set of tasks before enrolling.

What you will need to bring

The centre will provide most materials. North Hertfordshire College Stevenage Centre will confirm anything else you need before you start. There may be additional charges for any trips or visits during the year.

Where next

Jobs you could do

  • Registered Nurse, following a nursing degree and NMC registration.
  • Midwife, following a midwifery degree at university.
  • Biomedical Scientist, following a relevant life sciences degree.
  • Healthcare Assistant, entry-level NHS or private care roles.
  • Paramedic, following a paramedic science degree programme.

What you could study next

  • BSc Nursing (Adult, Child, or Mental Health), the degree most learners on this course are aiming for.
  • BSc Biomedical Science, for those interested in laboratory and diagnostic work.
  • BSc Midwifery, a natural next step for those drawn to maternity care.
  • BSc Physiotherapy or Occupational Therapy, for allied health career routes.
Apply on nhc.ac.uk →Check if you're eligible
Apply now →Check if you're eligible

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