Access to HE Land Based Studies Course in Norwich

CostFREE
Duration1 year
LevelLevel 3
DeliveryClassroom based
Start2 Sep 2026
Study modeFull-time
AttendanceDaytime
Awarding bodyCAVA

About this course

Access to HE Land Based Studies Course in Norwich. Classes run at Easton College, full-time during the day over one year. If you're 16 to 18 years old on 31 August before your course starts, tuition fees are free. If you're 19 or over, fees may apply. This Level 3 Access to HE qualification is recognised by UK universities as preparation for degree-level study in land-based subjects, including agriculture, animal sciences, wildlife, and conservation. You'll cover business, study skills, and land-based topics, plus a research project and a specialist pathway.

Who this course is for

Our Access to Higher Education Diploma in Land-Based Studies, as validated by CAVA, is a qualification which prepares students aged 19 and over, without relevant qualifications, for studying a range of land-based courses at degree level including agriculture, animal sciences, wildlife and conservation. You will study a range of units covering business, study and land-based skills. Additionally, you will study a research project across the year and also choose a pathway pair of units, typically from either animal science and welfare, ecology and conservation, or agriculture (please note these are subject to change). The programme is modular and will be delivered over 2.5 days a week. You will be supported throughout the course by a personal tutor who will also give you guidance in applying for Higher Education courses.

Entry requirements

This course is open to students aged 19 and over . You will need to have achieved GCSEs at grade A-C /4 or above including English Language and Maths. A GCSE at grade A-C / 4 or above in Biology would also be beneficial, but a good understanding and ability to study science is necessary. Provide a reference.

What you will learn

  • You'll develop study skills needed for degree-level learning.
  • You'll explore core land-based subjects including agriculture, animal sciences, and conservation.
  • You'll build knowledge of business principles relevant to land-based industries.
  • You'll complete a research project across the year.
  • You'll study a specialist pathway pair of units to focus your learning.
  • You'll gain the academic foundation universities expect for land-based degree courses.

How you will learn

You'll study in the classroom full-time during the day. Assessment is through a combination of assignments and a research project completed across the year. Units are assessed as you progress through the course. The qualification is validated by CAVA, and your work is assessed against their requirements throughout the year.

What you will need to bring

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

Where next

Jobs you could do

  • Agriculture technician. Supports farm and crop management operations.
  • Animal care worker. Hands-on care in zoos, sanctuaries, or farms.
  • Conservation officer. Works to protect wildlife habitats and species.
  • Countryside ranger. Manages land and engages the public with nature.
  • Farm manager (trainee). Entry-level role leading toward farm management.
  • Environmental monitoring assistant. Collects data on land and ecosystems.

What you could study next

This qualification is recognised by UK universities as a route onto land-based degree courses. You could progress to a BSc in Agriculture, Animal Science, Wildlife Conservation, or Environmental Management. Some universities also offer Foundation Years if you want an extra year of preparation before your full degree. Speak to university admissions teams about entry requirements for specific courses, as offers vary.