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

CostFREE
Duration1 year
LevelLevel 3
DeliveryOnline
Start16 Feb 2027
Awarding bodyAscentis awarding body
Apply now →

About this course

Free Level 3 Access to HE Diploma (Social Science) Course. Study online, at your own pace, over one year.

The course is free for eligible learners aged 19 or over. You'll need a grade C or above in GCSE Maths and GCSE English Language, or a Functional Skills Level 2 equivalent. Topics span psychology, sociology, criminology, and social science research. You'll build the academic skills universities expect at degree level. Ascentis recognises this qualification, and UK universities accept it as a route into social science, psychology, and criminology degrees.

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

Who this course is for

If you live in England, you might be able to do this course for FREE, see 'Additional Information' tab for more details. Apply today and our team will confirm if you could qualify for free place, with no obligation. Are you interested in a rewarding career in Social Work, Education, Psychology, Criminology, yet worry that a lack of time could prevent you from taking that next step? Access to Higher Education qualifications are nationally-recognised, one-year, intensive Level 3 courses. They are a fast-track route to gaining the the skills and qualifications you need to study at university and begin the career you are dreaming of. This online learning course means that you can study for a change of career, or a return to education, at times that suit you. It has also been specially designed for adult learners that are aged 19 or over, who do not currently meet the necessary entry requirements for a university course, or who have been out of education for a period of time. The course is validated and moderated by Ascentis under license from the Quality Assurance Agency for Higher Education and comprises of 60 credits, of which 45 are graded and 15 ungraded. You will study towards 3 credits in Preparing to Progress, 3 credits in academic writing and 54 credits over the three subjects Psychology, Law and Sociology. Benefits of studying with Activate Learning: Designed exclusively for adults (19+), Supportive environment provided through tutors with subject expertise, Guidance webinars for every module, Help and guidance on writing your personal statement and completing your UCAS application, One-year programme equivalent to three A Levels, allowing you to achieve the qualification you need to enter university, Flexible learning enabl. For further information please visit the Actiate Learning Website at https://www.activatelearning.ac.uk

Entry requirements

You must meet the following entry criteria: Aged 19+ at the start of the academic year., Living in the UK., Already hold a grade C/4 or above in GCSE maths and GCSE English Language or equivalent such as Functional Skills Level 2. If you hold international qualifications, we can assess these to see if you meet the criteria., Passing an entry assessment in . For further information please visit the Actiate Learning Website at https://www.activatelearning.ac.uk

What you will learn

  • You'll study core social science concepts across psychology, sociology, and criminology.
  • You'll develop academic writing and critical thinking skills for university study.
  • You'll analyse social research methods and how evidence is gathered and evaluated.
  • You'll explore psychological theories and how they apply to human behaviour.
  • You'll examine crime, justice, and social policy from a criminological perspective.
  • You'll practise referencing, essay structure, and academic argument.

How you will learn

You study online, working through materials at a pace that suits you. Assessment is through written assignments and essays rather than exams. You'll submit work throughout the year and receive feedback to help you improve. An entry assessment takes place before you start to confirm the course is the right level for you.

What you will need to bring

The centre will provide most materials. Activate Learning at City of Oxford College will confirm anything else you need before you start.

Where next

Jobs you could do

  • Social worker, supports individuals and families through statutory services.
  • Probation officer, works with offenders to reduce reoffending.
  • Community support worker, assists vulnerable adults or young people.
  • Psychology research assistant, supports academic or clinical research teams.
  • Youth worker, delivers programmes for young people in community settings.
  • Housing support officer, helps people access and maintain stable housing.

What you could study next

  • BA (Hons) Psychology, the natural next step for learners heading into psychology careers.
  • BA (Hons) Criminology, builds directly on the criminology content in this Diploma.
  • BA (Hons) Social Work, leads to a career in statutory or voluntary social work.
  • BA (Hons) Sociology, suits learners who want to focus on society and social policy.
Apply on adult.activatelearning.ac.uk →
Apply now →

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