Access to HE Social Sciences Course in Leeds

CostCheck if you can do this free
Duration1 year
LevelLevel 3
DeliveryClassroom based
Start7 Sep 2026
Study modeFull-time
AttendanceDaytime
Awarding bodyGateway Qualifications awarding body

Free if you're 19 to 23 and this is your first full Level 3. £3,022 if you're not eligible for free funding. Advanced Learner Loan available. Contact Luminate Education Group for more info.

About this course

Access to HE Social Sciences Course in Leeds. Classes run at Leeds City College Quarry Hill Campus, full-time during the day, over one year. It's free if you're 16 to 18 years old. If you're 19 or over, fees may apply, though a Learner Loan is available to help with costs.

The course covers social science topics including psychology, sociology, and criminology. You'll develop the academic skills universities expect, such as critical thinking, research, and essay writing. Units are assessed through assignments and projects rather than traditional exams.

You'll need GCSEs in English and maths at grade 4 or above to join. You'll finish with a Gateway Qualifications Access to HE Diploma in Social Sciences.

Who this course is for

This course is designed for busy adult learners with other commitments. Delivery of the course is a mixture of class-based activities and online learning so you will attend college two days per week. In-class activities will involve lectures, group work, peer learning and project-based tasks. You will also have access to online course materials via Google Classroom, which can be accessed via your laptop, tablet and mobile phone.

Entry requirements

GCSEs in English and maths and English at grade 4 or above. Equivalent qualifications may be considered. Additional requirements include a successful interview and demonstration of appropriate sector care values.

What you will learn

  • You'll study core concepts in psychology, including human behaviour and mental processes.
  • You'll explore criminology, including theories of crime and the justice system.
  • You'll examine sociological ideas about society, culture, and inequality.
  • You'll develop academic writing and essay skills to university standard.
  • You'll build research skills, including how to find and evaluate sources.
  • You'll practise critical thinking and how to construct an argument.
  • You'll complete project-based tasks that reflect university-style learning.

How you will learn

You'll attend college two days per week for classroom sessions. In class, you'll take part in lectures, group work, peer learning, and project-based tasks. You'll also have access to online course materials through Google Classroom, available on a laptop, tablet, or phone. Assessment is through written assignments and projects throughout the year, not a final exam.

What you will need to bring

The centre will provide most materials. Leeds City College Quarry Hill Campus will confirm anything else you need before you start.

Where next

Jobs you could do

  • Psychology support worker, assists people with mental health needs in community settings.
  • Criminal justice support officer, works within courts, probation, or youth offending services.
  • Social research assistant, supports data collection and analysis for research organisations.
  • Community outreach worker, connects people with local support services.
  • Youth worker, supports young people's development and wellbeing.

What you could study next

  • BSc (Hons) Psychology, the natural next step for those wanting to work as a psychologist or counsellor.
  • BA (Hons) Criminology, leads toward roles in criminal justice, policing, or policy.
  • BA (Hons) Sociology, for careers in social research, community work, or public services.
  • BA (Hons) Social Work, if you want to qualify as a social worker after your degree.

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