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Free Level 3 Access to HE Diploma (Health Professions) Course in Bury Saint Edmunds

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 (Health Professions) Course in Bury Saint Edmunds. Classes run at University and Professional Development Centre, full-time during the day, over one year.

The course covers science and health-related subjects alongside academic writing, communication, and research skills. You'll build the knowledge universities expect from applicants to nursing, midwifery, paramedicine, and occupational therapy. To apply, you'll need GCSE English and Maths at grade 4 or above, or Functional Skills English and Maths at Level 2. Entry is by interview and a timed written task.

You'll finish with an Access to HE Diploma (Health Professions), recognised by UK universities as a route into health profession degree programmes.

Who this course is for

Start your journey towards a career in healthcare with the Access to Higher Education Diploma in Health Professions. You will explore a range of science and health-related subjects while developing the academic, communication and research skills needed for higher education. This supportive daytime course is ideal for adults aiming to progress into nursing, midwifery, paramedicine, occupational therapy and other healthcare professions.

Entry requirements

Applicants must be 19 years of age or older on 31st August prior to the course beginning. Entry is by interview and successful completion of a task within a given time frame.GCSE English and Maths Grade 4/C or aboveorFunctional Skills English and Maths Level 2Find out more about Maths and English qualificationsoffered at the college.

What you will learn

  • You'll study core science subjects relevant to health professions, including biology and human physiology.
  • You'll develop academic writing skills needed for university-level study.
  • You'll practise research skills, including how to find, evaluate, and reference sources.
  • You'll build communication skills suited to healthcare and higher education settings.
  • You'll explore health and social care topics, including public health and patient care principles.
  • You'll gain an understanding of the professional expectations of nursing, midwifery, and allied health roles.

How you will learn

You'll learn through classroom-based sessions during the day. Assessment is through a combination of written assignments and coursework units. Each unit is graded as pass, merit, or distinction. You'll complete assignments throughout the year rather than sitting a final exam. Tutors will give feedback on drafts to help you meet university entry standards.

What you will need to bring

The centre will provide most materials. University and Professional Development Centre will confirm anything else you need before you start.

Where next

Jobs you could do

  • Registered Nurse, working in NHS hospitals, community care, or private settings.
  • Midwife, supporting women through pregnancy, birth, and postnatal care.
  • Paramedic, responding to emergency calls and providing pre-hospital care.
  • Occupational Therapist, helping people regain independence after illness or injury.
  • Radiographer, producing medical images to support diagnosis and treatment.
  • Physiotherapist, treating injury and movement problems through exercise and manual therapy.

What you could study next

  • BSc Nursing (Adult, Child, Mental Health, or Learning Disability), the degree required to register as a nurse with the Nursing and Midwifery Council.
  • BSc Midwifery, for those aiming to qualify as a registered midwife.
  • BSc Paramedic Science, leading to registration as a paramedic.
  • BSc Occupational Therapy or BSc Physiotherapy, for allied health profession routes.
  • Foundation Year in Health Sciences, if you want a bridging year before a full degree.
Apply on wsc.ac.uk →
Apply now →

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