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Free Access to HE Science Course in Liverpool – The City of Liverpool College Clarence Street

CostFREE
Duration1 year
LevelLevel 3
DeliveryClassroom based
Start29 Sep 2026
Study modeFull-time
AttendanceDaytime
Awarding bodyOpen Awards awarding body
Apply now →

About this course

Free Access to HE Science Course in Liverpool. Classes run at The City of Liverpool College Clarence Street, full-time during the day.

The course is for adults aged 19 or over who want to move into university-level science study. You'll study Biology, Chemistry and Applied Mathematics over one year. The course also builds the academic skills you need to succeed at degree level. You'll need a GCSE grade 4 or above in English, Maths and two Science subjects to apply.

You'll finish with an Access to HE Diploma (Biochemical Science), recognised by UK universities as a route into science degrees.

Who this course is for

The Access to Higher Education Science Diploma is a Level 3 qualification which prepares you for university study if you don't have traditional qualifications. The core subjects you'll study are Biology, Chemistry and Applied Mathematics. Alongside these subjects, you'll also develop your academic skills in a supportive environment, which will allow you to make the transition to degree level. You will have access to outstanding academic and pastoral support, detailed online materials, and the full Microsoft 365 suite during your time with us. You'll be taught by a team of specialist teachers with extensive knowledge of their subject areas. We have considerable experience and expertise working with adult learners who have taken either a short or a long break from formal education. The course content is suited to anyone who is confident in their mathematics ability (GCSE grade 5 or above) and wishes to gain a wider overview of the three sciences.

Entry requirements

You must be aged 19 or over to study this qualification. You will need a GCSE grade 4/C or above in English, Maths and two Science subjects. If you are unsure of the entry requirements, or if you don't meet the criteria, please contact our Careers Advice and Guidance team who will help you find the right option for you. Email [email protected] or call 0151 252 3607.

What you will learn

  • You'll study core Biology, covering cells, genetics and living systems.
  • You'll study Chemistry, including atomic structure, reactions and chemical analysis.
  • You'll apply mathematical methods used in scientific contexts.
  • You'll develop academic writing and study skills for degree-level work.
  • You'll learn how to read, evaluate and reference scientific sources.
  • You'll build the research and critical thinking skills universities expect.

How you will learn

You'll learn through classroom sessions at the college, supported by detailed online materials. Assessment is through a combination of assignments and coursework completed throughout the year. Open Awards moderates the Diploma to confirm it meets university entry requirements. There are no formal written exams in the traditional sense; your work is assessed continuously across the units.

What you will need to bring

The centre will provide most materials. The City of Liverpool College Clarence Street will confirm anything else you need before you start.

Where next

Jobs you could do

  • Laboratory technician, supports scientific research in a lab setting.
  • Research assistant, assists with data collection and analysis in science projects.
  • Science technician, prepares equipment and materials in schools or colleges.
  • Pharmaceutical technician, works in drug production or quality control.
  • Environmental scientist, monitors and analyses environmental samples.

What you could study next

  • BSc Biology, BSc Biochemistry or BSc Biomedical Science, the most direct next step after this Diploma for learners aiming at a science degree.
  • BSc Chemistry or BSc Applied Chemistry, for those who want to specialise in chemical sciences.
  • BSc Pharmacology or BSc Pharmaceutical Science, a strong route into the medicines and healthcare sector.
  • Foundation Year in Science, offered by some universities as an additional bridge before a full degree programme.
Apply on liv-coll.ac.uk →
Apply now →

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