Free Access to HE Humanities and Social Sciences Course in Sheffield. Classes run at The Sheffield College Hillsborough Campus, full-time during the day. This level 3 access to he humanities and social sciences course is designed to prepare you for university study in humanities and social sciences subjects. It takes one year to complete. You'll study at a pace that builds the academic skills universities expect, covering reading, writing, critical thinking, and subject knowledge. Check the college website for the most up-to-date entry requirements. Completing the course earns you an Access to HE Diploma (Humanities and Social Sciences).
Who this course is for
The Sheffield College is a thriving further education college situated in Sheffield, South Yorkshire. We have 4 main campuses across the city, including our City Campus, Hillsborough Campus, Olive Grove Campus and Peaks Campus. We offer a wide range of Apprenticeships, vocational courses, A Levels, professional courses and university level courses. Please go to our website www.sheffcol.ac.uk for full details.
Entry requirements
Please check our website for the most up-to-date entry requirement for this course.
What you will learn
You'll develop academic writing skills to the standard universities expect.
You'll study core humanities and social sciences subjects such as history, sociology, psychology, or related disciplines.
You'll practise critical analysis of texts, arguments, and evidence.
You'll build research skills, including how to find, evaluate, and reference sources.
You'll learn to construct and present academic arguments clearly and logically.
You'll gain an understanding of key theories and debates within humanities and social sciences fields.
How you will learn
You'll learn through classroom-based sessions at the Hillsborough Campus, full-time during the day. Assessment on Access to HE Diplomas is typically through written assignments, essays, and coursework rather than formal exams, though the exact mix depends on the units you study. Your tutors will give you feedback throughout the year to help you meet the standard required for university entry.
What you will need to bring
The centre will provide most materials. The Sheffield College Hillsborough Campus will confirm anything else you need before you start.
Where next
Jobs you could do
Social worker, supporting individuals and families through statutory services
Community development worker, running local projects and programmes
Counsellor or support worker, providing guidance in health or charity settings
Journalist or writer, producing content for media organisations
Policy researcher, analysing social issues for public or third-sector bodies
Museum or heritage officer, working with collections and public engagement
Probation officer, supporting people through the justice system
What you could study next
BA (Hons) in Sociology, Psychology, History, or a related humanities subject at a UK university. This is the most direct next step after completing the Diploma.
BA (Hons) in Social Work, if you want to qualify as a social worker. You'll need to meet the university's own entry requirements.
Foundation degree in a humanities or social sciences subject, if you prefer a shorter higher education route before progressing to a full degree.