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Free Level 3 Access to HE Diploma in Computing Course in Bodmin

CostFREE
Duration1 year
LevelLevel 3
DeliveryClassroom based
Start1 Sep 2026
Study modeFull-time
AttendanceDaytime
Awarding bodyCAVA
Apply now →

About this course

Free Level 3 Access to HE Diploma (Computing) Course in Bodmin. Classes run full-time during the day at STEM and Health Skills Centre. The course runs over one year and is designed to prepare you for university-level study in computing and IT. You'll develop both technical computing skills and the academic skills universities expect. The level 3 access to he diploma (computing) qualification is recognised by universities across the UK as a route into higher education. You'll need GCSE English and Maths at grade 4 or above, though the centre is happy to discuss your circumstances before you apply.

Who this course is for

Leading to university courses all around the UK, the Access to Higher Education: Computing and IT course will help you build your life skills and achieve excellent results which will prepare you for life in higher education and beyond.

The purpose of the Access to Higher Education: Computing and IT course is to provide you a pathway to build a passion for computing, whether that is gaining a qualification to match your professional skills or to gain the skills to take your career forwards.

We build from basic knowledge up to preparation for university. Each topic begins with the understanding that some students within the group will have limited knowledge. We then deliver the content to a high level of competence over the year. It does not matter what existing level of IT skill you have. Whilst existing knowledge will provide an advantage it is not required as we cover each topic from the ground up.

The access course is aimed to prepare you for a university course, which is why over 90% of our students go on to study at university or be in full-time, relevant employment within six months of completing the course. However, many of our students go on to higher Apprenticeships such as Level 4 Apprenticeships in network engineering/software development.

Entry requirements

You must attend an interview where your experience &/or attitude will be considered. We recommend you have GCSE English & Maths at a minimum of Grade 4 (C) before you commence the Access course, however, please contact us to discuss & we would be happy to advise based on your particular set of circumstances. It is advisable to check the GCSE requirements for the higher education course you wish to complete following the Access course, as they may have different stipulations.

What you will learn

  • You'll develop core computing and IT knowledge to degree-entry standard.
  • You'll build academic study skills, including research, critical thinking, and written argument.
  • You'll explore programming concepts and computational problem-solving.
  • You'll gain an understanding of data, networks, and digital systems.
  • You'll practise the kind of independent learning that university courses require.

How you will learn

You'll study in the classroom full-time during the day at STEM and Health Skills Centre. Access to HE Diplomas are assessed through a combination of assignments, projects, and written work rather than formal exams. You'll build a portfolio of assessed work across the year. Your tutor will give feedback throughout to help you meet the standard universities expect.

What you will need to bring

The centre will provide most materials. STEM and Health Skills Centre will confirm anything else you need before you start.

Where next

Jobs you could do

  • Software developer: write and test code for apps and systems.
  • IT support analyst: troubleshoot hardware, software, and networks.
  • Data analyst: interpret and present data to support decisions.
  • Web developer: design and build websites and web applications.
  • Cybersecurity technician: protect systems and data from threats.
  • Network administrator: manage and maintain IT infrastructure.
  • Systems administrator: keep servers and business systems running.

What you could study next

  • BSc (Hons) Computer Science: the most direct next step after this level 3 access to he diploma (computing) course. Most universities accept the Diploma as a standard entry qualification.
  • BSc (Hons) Cybersecurity: for those drawn to network protection and digital forensics.
  • BSc (Hons) Data Science: combines computing with statistics and analysis.
  • BSc (Hons) Software Engineering: focused on building and maintaining software systems at scale.
Apply on truro-penwith.ac.uk →
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