Free Access to HE Social Sciences Course in Ipswich

CostFREE
Duration1 year
LevelLevel 3
DeliveryClassroom based
Start14 Sep 2026
Study modeFull-time
AttendanceDaytime
Awarding bodyCAVA

About this course

Free Access to HE Social Sciences Course in Ipswich. Classes run at Suffolk New College, full-time during the day. You must be 19 or over at the time of enrolment, and hold a grade 4 (C) or above in GCSE Maths or English. This level 3 access to he social sciences qualification is designed to meet university entry requirements as a mature student. The course runs for one year and covers Social Science units alongside study skills to prepare you for degree-level study. It is recognised by UK universities as a route into higher education.

Who this course is for

This study programme is designed for those who wish to progress onto a degree programme, and must be aged 19+ at the time of enrolment. This study programme will give you the entry criteria for university as a 19+ mature student. The study programme offers Level 3 Social Science units as well as study skills units to help prepare you for university.

Entry requirements

Ages 19+ Grade 4 (C) or above in either maths or English

What you will learn

  • You'll study core Social Science subjects including sociology, psychology, and related disciplines.
  • You'll develop academic writing and research skills needed for university study.
  • You'll learn how to analyse social issues using evidence and theory.
  • You'll build study skills to help you manage independent learning at degree level.
  • You'll practise referencing, essay writing, and critical thinking.

How you will learn

You'll learn through classroom-based sessions at Suffolk New College, five days a week during the day. Assessment is through assignments, essays, and coursework rather than traditional exams. Units are assessed throughout the year, so your work builds progressively toward the final Diploma. Study skills units run alongside the Social Science content to support your academic development.

What you will need to bring

The centre will provide most materials. Suffolk New College will confirm anything else you need before you start.

Where next

Jobs you could do

  • Social worker. Degree entry route into frontline support roles.
  • Community support worker. Working with vulnerable adults or young people.
  • Probation officer. Requires a degree; this course opens that route.
  • Youth worker. Supporting young people in community or education settings.
  • Housing officer. Managing tenancies and supporting residents.
  • Policy researcher. Analysing social data for public or third-sector organisations.

What you could study next

  • BA (Hons) Sociology. A natural next step after this access to he social sciences course, available at most UK universities.
  • BA (Hons) Psychology. Many psychology degrees accept the Access to HE Diploma as entry.
  • BA (Hons) Criminology. Builds directly on Social Science units covered in this Diploma.
  • BA (Hons) Social Work. This Diploma meets entry requirements for many social work degrees, leading to a professional qualification.

Related courses at Suffolk New College

More courses near you