Free Access to HE Law Course in Birmingham. Classes run at Matthew Boulton College, full-time during the day. You'll need GCSE English and Maths at grade 4/C or above (or equivalent), and you'll attend an interview before starting. The course runs for 39 weeks and covers law and criminology at Level 3, preparing you to apply for a university degree. It's a recognised university access course, accepted by UK universities in place of A-levels.
Who this course is for
If you�ve been out of education for a while or don�t have the qualifications
needed for university, this Access to Higher Education course in Law and
Criminology is the perfect way to take that next step. It�s designed to help
adult learners prepare for university and future careers in the legal and
criminal justice sectors.
Entry requirements
GCSE English and Maths at grade 4/C or above (or equivalent). You�ll also
need to demonstrate your commitment to the course at interview and have had a
break from formal education.
What you will learn
You'll study the foundations of English law, including how the legal system is structured and how courts operate.
You'll explore criminal law, looking at offences, defences, and how cases move through the criminal justice system.
You'll examine criminology, including theories of crime and how society responds to it.
You'll develop academic writing and research skills needed for university-level study.
You'll analyse legal cases and apply legal principles to real scenarios.
You'll build skills in critical thinking and constructing well-reasoned arguments.
How you will learn
You'll learn through classroom sessions at Matthew Boulton College, with a mix of tutor-led teaching, group discussion, and independent study. Assessment is through assignments and written work completed throughout the year. There are no formal exams. You'll build a portfolio of work that meets the requirements set by Ascentis for the Access to HE Diploma.
What you will need to bring
The centre will provide most materials. Matthew Boulton College will confirm anything else you need before you start.
Where next
Jobs you could do
Solicitor (via law degree and further training)
Barrister (via law degree and Bar training)
Legal secretary or paralegal supporting solicitors in a law firm
Police officer working in criminal investigation
Probation officer supporting offenders through the justice system
Court clerk or legal administrator in the court service
Criminal justice social worker supporting people in the justice system
What you could study next
LLB Law Degree: the most direct next step after this Diploma, accepted by many UK universities.
BA Criminology: for those who want to focus on crime, justice, and social policy at degree level.
BA Policing or Criminal Justice: a degree route into professional roles in law enforcement and the justice sector.
Check individual university entry requirements, as some courses may ask for specific grades in your Access to HE Diploma units.
