Free Access to HE Humanities Course in Southampton. Classes run at Itchen College, full-time during the day. The course takes one year and is designed for adults who want to progress to university study in humanities subjects. You'll cover areas such as history, literature, philosophy, sociology, or related disciplines, building the academic skills universities expect. The Ascentis Access to HE Diploma is recognised by UK universities as a qualification for entry to degree programmes, making it a well-established university access route for adults.
Who this course is for
19+
Entry requirements
See Website
What you will learn
You'll develop essay writing and academic argument skills used in university study.
You'll explore key themes and ideas across humanities subjects such as history, literature, or philosophy.
You'll practise critical reading and analysis of texts and sources.
You'll build research skills, including how to find, evaluate, and reference sources.
You'll gain experience of timed assessments and written assignments at Level 3.
You'll develop the study habits and independent learning expected at degree level.
How you will learn
You'll learn through classroom sessions at Itchen College, with a mix of taught input, discussion, and guided independent study. Assessment is through written assignments and coursework completed across the year. The Ascentis Access to HE Diploma uses a credit-based model, with graded and ungraded units contributing to your final profile. There are no formal exams in the traditional sense. Your tutors will give feedback on drafts to help you meet the standard universities expect.
What you will need to bring
The centre will provide most materials. Itchen College will confirm anything else you need before you start.
Where next
Jobs you could do
Researcher: entry-level roles in policy, charity, or public sector research
Teaching assistant: supporting pupils in schools while studying further
Community support worker: working with local organisations and services
Library assistant: supporting information and learning services
Heritage or museum assistant: working with collections and the public
Journalism trainee: writing and reporting for local or online outlets
Social work degree apprentice: combining work and degree-level study
What you could study next
BA (Hons) History, English Literature, Philosophy, Sociology, or related humanities degree: the natural next step after this Diploma, with most UK universities accepting the Access to HE qualification for entry.
BA (Hons) Social Work or Criminology: for those drawn toward applied humanities and public service roles.
Foundation Year programmes: some universities offer a foundation year as an alternative entry route if you want more preparation before a full degree.
