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Level 3 Access to HE Diploma (Social Science) Course in Winchester – Peter Symonds College Stoney Lane Campus

CostCheck if you can do this free
Duration2 years
LevelLevel 3
DeliveryClassroom based
StartFlexible
Study modePart-time
AttendanceEvening
Awarding bodyAscentis awarding body

Free if you're 19 to 23 and this is your first full Level 3. £1,595 a year if you're not eligible for free funding. Advanced Learner Loan available. Contact Peter Symonds College for more info.

Check if you're eligible

About this course

Level 3 Access to HE Diploma (Social Science) Course in Winchester. Evening classes run at Peter Symonds College Stoney Lane Campus, one evening a week over a year.

Fees may apply depending on your circumstances. If you are 19 to 23 years old and this is your first full Level 3 qualification, the course may be free. Advanced Learner Loans are available for those who need them.

The course covers social science subjects including psychology, sociology, and criminology. You will develop the academic skills universities expect, such as essay writing, research, and critical analysis. A screening session helps confirm the course is the right level for you.

You will finish with an Ascentis Access to HE Diploma in Social Science, recognised by UK universities.

Who this course is for

Access to HE provides an alternative route to Higher Education for adult students (19+) who would like to progress to study at university, or who are looking to change career. This qualification can be studied full or part-time and is free for those aged 19-23 if it is their first full Level 3 qualification (2 A levels, 4 AS Levels or equivalent). Advanced Learner Loans are available to cover the cost of fees and will be written off if students go on to complete a degree.

Entry requirements

None specifically needed, although it is useful if students have experienced working at Level 2 (e.g. GCSEs). Most universities expect students to have grade C or above in Maths and English GCSE (or equivalent). Screening will be arranged to ascertain if students will cope with level 3 work.

What you will learn

  • You'll study core social science disciplines including psychology, sociology, and criminology.
  • You'll develop academic essay writing skills to university standard.
  • You'll learn how to research and evaluate evidence critically.
  • You'll explore key theories and debates in the social sciences.
  • You'll build skills in referencing and academic argument.
  • You'll gain an understanding of research methods used in social science.

How you will learn

You will learn through evening classroom sessions at the college. Assessment is through written assignments and essays rather than exams. Work is built up across the year, so there is no single high-stakes test at the end. Tutors give feedback on drafts to help you improve before final submission.

What you will need to bring

The centre will provide most materials. Peter Symonds College Stoney Lane Campus will confirm anything else you need before you start.

Where next

Jobs you could do

  • Probation officer, works with offenders in the criminal justice system.
  • Social researcher, carries out research for public or private organisations.
  • Community support worker, supports vulnerable people in local services.
  • Youth worker, works with young people in community or educational settings.
  • Mental health support worker, assists people with mental health needs.
  • Housing officer, manages housing applications and tenancies for a local authority.

What you could study next

  • BA (Hons) Psychology, the most direct next step for learners interested in psychology careers.
  • BA (Hons) Criminology, leads to roles in criminal justice, probation, or policy.
  • BA (Hons) Sociology, suits those interested in social research or community work.
  • BSc (Hons) Social Work, a regulated degree for those aiming to become a qualified social worker.
Check if you're eligible
Check if you're eligible

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