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Level 3 Access to HE Diploma (Social Science) Course Online

CostCheck if you can do this free
Duration1 year
LevelLevel 3
DeliveryOnline
Start18 Jan 2027
Awarding bodyAscentis awarding body

Free if you're 19 to 23 and this is your first full Level 3. Fees apply if you're not eligible. Advanced Learner Loan available. Contact GC Education and Skills for more info.

Apply now →Check if you're eligible

About this course

Level 3 Access to HE Diploma (Social Science) Course. Study online, with evening classes on Wednesdays and Thursdays. The course takes one year to complete. If you're aged 19 to 23, you may be eligible for full funding. If you're 24 or over, an Advanced Learner Loan may be available instead.

The course covers academic writing, introduction to criminology, sociology, psychology, and communication skills. It is awarded by Ascentis and recognised by universities across the UK. You'll need maths and English at Level 1, or equivalent experience, to apply.

You'll finish with an Access to HE Diploma in Social Science at Level 3.

Who this course is for

This course is ideal for adults aged 19+ who are interested in studying subjects like psychology, sociology, criminology, or social work at university but don’t currently have the qualifications needed to apply. Whether you're returning to education after a break, looking to change careers, or didn’t get the grades you hoped for at school, this diploma provides a supportive route into higher education and future careers in the social sciences.

Entry requirements

Applicants must be aged 19 or over. We would usually expect adult learners to have maths and English at Level 1 or an equivalent qualification; however, we also welcome applications from individuals with overseas qualifications and/or relevant life experience.

What you will learn

  • You'll develop academic writing skills for university-level study.
  • You'll explore the key ideas and theories in criminology.
  • You'll study core concepts in psychology and sociology.
  • You'll build communication skills for academic and professional settings.
  • You'll learn how to research, reference, and structure arguments.
  • You'll prepare a portfolio of work to support your university application.

How you will learn

You'll attend live online classes on Wednesday and Thursday evenings, from 4:30pm to 8:00pm. Learning is delivered through tutor-led sessions, written assignments, and coursework. Assessment is by portfolio and assignments rather than formal exams. You'll submit work throughout the year and receive feedback from your tutor.

What you will need to bring

GC Education and Skills will confirm anything you need before you start. Most materials are provided as part of the online course.

Where next

Jobs you could do

  • Psychology assistant, supports qualified psychologists in research or clinical settings.
  • Probation services officer, works with offenders in the community.
  • Social work assistant, supports qualified social workers with casework.
  • Community support worker, helps vulnerable adults or young people.
  • Youth worker, works with young people in community or education settings.
  • Victim support worker, provides practical and emotional support to victims of crime.

What you could study next

  • BSc Psychology, a degree that opens roles in clinical, educational, or occupational psychology.
  • BA Criminology, leads to careers in criminal justice, policing, or research.
  • BA Social Work, a qualifying degree for registered social work practice.
  • BA Sociology, explores society and culture with routes into research, policy, or education.
Apply on gceducationandskills.ac.uk →Check if you're eligible
Apply now →Check if you're eligible

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