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Free Access to HE Psychology and Criminology Course in Leigh – Leigh Adult Learning Centre

CostFREE
Duration35 weeks
LevelLevel 3
DeliveryClassroom based
Start1 Sep 2027
Study modeFull-time
AttendanceDaytime
Awarding bodyOpen Awards awarding body
Apply now →

About this course

Free Access to HE Psychology and Criminology Course in Leigh. Classes run at Leigh Adult Learning Centre, full-time during the day. This level 3 access to HE psychology and criminology qualification is recognised by UK universities as a route into degree-level study for people without traditional A Levels. The course runs for 35 weeks. You'll study psychology and criminology alongside the academic skills universities expect. You'll need GCSE English and Maths at grade 4 or above (or equivalent) to enrol. It's worth checking your chosen university accepts the qualification before you apply.

Who this course is for

Access to HE Diplomas are well established national qualifications which allow students without traditional Level 3 qualifications to apply for degree courses and enter university level study. The Psychology and Criminology route is for those who wish to progress on to degrees which will lead to careers in psychology or criminology. It is recommended that you research university courses carefully before starting your Level 3 studies.

Entry requirements

You will need GCSE English and Maths Grade A* - C / 9-4. Equivalent qualifications may be considered and on an individual basis.

Applicants must check individual university requirements to ensure qualifications are accepted for progression.

What you will learn

  • You'll explore core theories and concepts in psychology, including human behaviour and mental processes.
  • You'll study the principles of criminology, including crime, justice, and social responses to offending.
  • You'll analyse research methods used in psychology and social science.
  • You'll develop academic writing and critical thinking skills at degree-entry level.
  • You'll examine social, cultural, and ethical issues relevant to both disciplines.
  • You'll practise referencing, essay structure, and argument building to prepare for university study.

How you will learn

You'll study in a classroom at Leigh Adult Learning Centre, with tutor-led sessions across the week. Assessment is through a combination of written assignments, essays, and coursework units. The Access to HE Diploma is assessed without formal exams in most units, though individual units may include in-class tasks. You'll build a portfolio of work across the 35-week course that meets the Open Awards requirements for university entry.

What you will need to bring

The centre will provide most materials. Leigh Adult Learning Centre will confirm anything else you need before you start.

Where next

Jobs you could do

  • Probation officer: supports offenders through the justice system
  • Psychology assistant: works in NHS, research, or educational settings
  • Social worker: helps individuals and families in crisis
  • Youth justice worker: works with young people in the criminal justice system
  • Mental health support worker: assists people with mental health needs
  • Crime analyst: works with police or public sector on crime data
  • Victim support worker: provides practical help to victims of crime

What you could study next

  • BSc (Hons) Psychology: the most direct next step after this qualification, leading to graduate roles in clinical, educational, or occupational psychology.
  • BSc (Hons) Criminology or Criminal Justice: degree programmes at universities across the UK that this Diploma is designed to support entry to.
  • BSc (Hons) Social Work: for those drawn to working with people in the justice or care system.
  • Combined Honours degrees in Psychology and Criminology are offered at many universities and align closely with this course.
Apply on wigan-leigh.ac.uk →
Apply now →

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