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Level 3 Access to HE Diploma (Computer Science) Course in Birmingham

CostFREE
Duration1 year
LevelLevel 3
DeliveryClassroom based
Start14 Sep 2026
Study modePart-time
AttendanceEvening
Awarding bodyAim Awards awarding body
Apply now →

About this course

Level 3 Access to HE Diploma (Computer Science) Course in Birmingham. Evening classes run at Longbridge Campus, one night or more per week, so you can fit study around work or other commitments.

Fees vary depending on your circumstances. Visit the campus website or call 0121 694 5001 for full fee information.

The course runs over one year and builds the knowledge and skills needed for a computer science degree. You'll cover programming concepts, data, systems, and the maths underpinning computer science. Entry requires Grade 4 or above in both GCSE Maths and GCSE English. You'll also complete an interview and initial assessment before starting.

You'll finish with an Access to HE Diploma recognised by UK universities.

Who this course is for

Access to Higher Education courses offer 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 university. 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 degree courses in a computer science related field. If you feel you need extra 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

You are required to have Grade 4 / C or above in both maths and English/English language. Selection is on the basis of an interview and completing an initial assessment.

If you would like 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 learners for Level 3 study.

What you will learn

  • You'll study core programming concepts and computational thinking.
  • You'll explore how computer systems and networks operate.
  • You'll work with data structures and algorithms.
  • You'll apply mathematical reasoning relevant to computer science.
  • You'll develop academic writing and research skills for university study.
  • You'll analyse problems and design logical solutions.

How you will learn

You'll learn through evening classroom sessions at Longbridge Campus. The Diploma is assessed through a combination of assignments and written work completed across the year. Each unit has its own assessment, and you'll build a portfolio of work as you progress. There are no formal exams in the traditional sense; assessment is continuous throughout the course.

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

  • Software developer, writes and tests code for applications and systems.
  • IT support technician, troubleshoots hardware and software for organisations.
  • Software engineer, designs and builds software solutions across industries.
  • Junior web developer, builds and maintains websites and web applications.
  • Data analyst, works with data to support business decisions.
  • Systems administrator, manages and maintains IT infrastructure.

What you could study next

  • BSc Computer Science, the natural next step after this Access to HE Diploma, at universities across the UK.
  • BSc Software Engineering, for those focused on building large-scale systems.
  • BSc Cybersecurity, if you develop an interest in network and data protection during the course.
  • BSc Data Science, combining programming with statistics and analysis.
Apply on sccb.ac.uk →
Apply now →

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