Access to HE Land Based Studies Course Online

CostPlease contact provider - This course is eligible for funding via an Advanced Learner Loan. Getting a loan doesnt depend on your income and there are no credit checks. Advanced Learner Loans dont get repaid until you earn over 27,295 per year.
Duration12 months
LevelLevel 3
DeliveryOnline
StartFlexible
Awarding bodyAim Awards awarding body

About this course

Access to HE Diploma (Land Based Studies) Course. Study online at your own pace, fitting learning around your work and home life.

This qualification is designed to prepare you for a degree in animal science, veterinary nursing, zoology, or animal management. You study units covering animal behaviour and welfare, animal biology, physiology, ecology, and academic writing skills. The course typically takes 12 months to complete. An Advanced Learner Loan is available to help with fees, and repayments only begin once you earn over £27,295 a year. You'll need a Level 2 qualification in Maths and English to enrol.

You'll finish with an Access to HE Diploma in Land Based Studies, recognised by UK universities.

Who this course is for

Access courses are designed for people who have been out of education for some time - so they're the perfect option if you left school without the qualifications you'd need to go straight to university. They provide you with a good level of knowledge and skills so that you feel prepared to start a degree. Whether you're a career changer, have been out of employment and education for some time, or you're looking to pursue a subject you're passionate about - an Access to HE course could be the right option for you. This course is specifically designed to put you on the pathway to study a degree in Animal Care and Science or start your career in the Environmental sector. Through this course, study animal physiology, nutrition, and ecosystems alongside core skills in academic writing, research, and environmental science.

Entry requirements

You will need a Level 2 Maths and English qualification (GCSE or equivalent) - copies of your certificates will be requested as part of the enrolment process. If you don't have your Level 2 qualifications in Maths and English, we can support you through Functional Skills qualifications. As part of our enrolment process, you will need to complete a telephone interview and a written assessment which will ensure that the course is the right level for you.

What you will learn

  • You'll develop knowledge of animal behaviour and welfare.
  • You'll study animal organs, systems, and physiology.
  • You'll explore ecology, ecosystems, and environmental management.
  • You'll learn the principles of animal nutrition and digestive systems.
  • You'll study plant biology and biodiversity.
  • You'll build academic writing and independent research skills.
  • You'll practise the skills needed to succeed at degree level.

How you will learn

You study online through a series of units. Assessment is through written assignments, which build the academic skills universities expect. You'll also complete a telephone interview and a written assessment during enrolment to confirm the course is the right level for you.

What you will need to bring

You'll need a laptop with full internet access. You'll also need copies of your Level 2 Maths and English certificates ready for enrolment. Learning Curve will confirm anything else you need before you start.

Where next

Jobs you could do

  • Animal care worker, works in kennels, catteries, or rescue centres.
  • Zoo keeper, cares for animals in zoos and wildlife parks.
  • Veterinary nurse, supports vets in clinical settings after further training.
  • Wildlife conservation officer, works to protect habitats and species.
  • Animal behaviourist, assesses and supports animal welfare after degree study.
  • Farm manager, oversees livestock and land management operations.

What you could study next

  • A degree in Animal Science, the natural next step after this Diploma.
  • BSc Veterinary Nursing, for those aiming to qualify as a veterinary nurse.
  • BSc Zoology, for those interested in wildlife and conservation careers.
  • BSc Environmental Management, if ecology and land management appeal to you.