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Access to HE Social Science Course in Birmingham

CostCheck if you can do this free
Duration1 year
LevelLevel 3
DeliveryClassroom based
Start6 Sep 2027
Study modePart-time
AttendanceEvening
Awarding bodyAim Awards awarding body

Free or reduced fees may be available, depending on your circumstances. Contact South & City College Birmingham for more info.

Apply now →Check if you're eligible

About this course

Access to HE Social Science Course in Birmingham. Evening classes run at Longbridge Campus, one day a week over one year. Fees vary depending on your circumstances. For some learners the course may be free. You'll develop the knowledge and skills needed for degree-level study in social sciences, covering areas such as social work, psychology, sociology, criminology, education and social policy. The course is recognised by UK universities as meeting entry requirements for undergraduate programmes. Entry normally requires GCSE grade 4 or above in maths and English, or equivalent.

Who this course is for

Access to HE Diploma courses are a one-year, Level 3 qualification specifically tailored for adults who have been out of education for a while and wish to go on to study at degree-level. This programme is ideal for those who did not attain typical qualifications like A Levels upon leaving school. This course aims to develop the skills and knowledge required for undergraduate courses in the social sciences, including social work, psychology, sociology, criminology, education and social policy. If you feel you need help with your numeracy and language skills before starting the Access to HE Diploma, please enquire about our Pre-Access courses which are designed to prepare people for Level 3 study.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally required to have 4/Cs or above in maths and English Language at GCSE (or equivalent). Selection is on the basis of an interview and completing an initial assessment. A small number of universities will accept functional skills in maths and English for Social Work, However, it is your responsibility to check and provide evidence.

What you will learn

  • You'll study core social science subjects including sociology, psychology and criminology.
  • You'll develop academic writing and research skills for degree-level study.
  • You'll explore theories and concepts in social policy and education.
  • You'll build critical thinking and analytical skills expected at university.
  • You'll practise referencing, essay writing and presenting arguments clearly.
  • You'll gain an understanding of social work values and practice contexts.

How you will learn

You'll attend evening classes at Longbridge Campus. Learning is classroom based, with tutor-led sessions and guided study. Assessment is through written assignments and coursework completed throughout the year. There are no formal exams. You'll have an initial assessment and interview before the course starts to confirm the level is right for you.

What you will need to bring

The centre will provide most materials. Longbridge Campus will confirm anything else you need before you start.

Where next

Jobs you could do

  • Social worker. Degree and Social Work England registration required.
  • Probation officer. Degree-level qualification typically required.
  • Community support worker. Entry-level roles available after degree study.
  • Youth worker. Relevant degree opens roles in youth and community settings.
  • Counsellor or therapist. Psychology degree and further training required.
  • Sociologist or researcher. Graduate and postgraduate routes available.
  • Education welfare officer. Degree in education or social science typical entry.

What you could study next

This level 3 access to he social science qualification is recognised by UK universities as an entry route to undergraduate study. You could progress to a BA or BSc in Social Work, Psychology, Sociology, Criminology, Education or Social Policy. Some learners go on to postgraduate study, including a Master of Social Work (MSW). Check individual university entry requirements, as some social work degrees ask for specific GCSE grades in maths and English alongside the Access to HE Diploma.

Apply on sccb.ac.uk →Check if you're eligible
Apply now →Check if you're eligible

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