Free Access to HE Science Course in Sheffield. Classes run at The Sheffield College, full-time during the day. This level 3 access to he science qualification is designed to take you to university in one year. It covers the scientific knowledge and study skills that UK universities look for in applicants. You'll have an initial assessment to confirm this is the right level for you. Check the college website for the most up-to-date entry requirements.
Who this course is for
The Sheffield College is a thriving further education college situated in Sheffield, South Yorkshire. We have 4 main campuses across the city, including our City Campus, Hillsborough Campus, Olive Grove Campus and Peaks Campus. We offer a wide range of Apprenticeships, vocational courses, A Levels, professional courses and university level courses. Please go to our website www.sheffcol.ac.uk for full details.
Entry requirements
Please check our website for the most up-to-date entry requirement for this course.
What you will learn
You'll develop knowledge across core science subjects including biology, chemistry, and physics
You'll build scientific writing and data analysis skills needed for degree-level study
You'll practise research methods and how to evaluate scientific evidence
You'll develop academic study skills, including essay writing and referencing
You'll gain an understanding of how science connects to real-world applications
How you will learn
You'll learn through classroom-based sessions at The Sheffield College, combining taught lessons with independent study. Assessment is through a mix of assignments, written tasks, and coursework completed throughout the year. The Access to HE Diploma uses a credit-based system, with units assessed and graded individually. There are no formal written exams in the traditional sense. Your grades across all units contribute to your final Diploma result.
What you will need to bring
The centre will provide most materials. The Sheffield College will confirm anything else you need before you start.
Where next
Jobs you could do
Laboratory technician: supporting research and testing in science settings
Science technician: working in schools, colleges, or research labs
Healthcare science assistant: supporting clinical teams in NHS settings
Pharmacy technician: preparing and dispensing medicines under supervision
Environmental monitoring officer: collecting and analysing environmental data
What you could study next
This Diploma is recognised by UK universities as meeting entry requirements for science-related degrees. You could go on to study:
BSc Biology, Chemistry, Biochemistry, or Biomedical Science at university
BSc Nursing or Midwifery, where science A-level equivalence is required
BSc Environmental Science or Forensic Science
Foundation year programmes at universities that offer an extra year of support before the full degree
