Access To Higher Education
- Social Science

Part Time Course code 0117

Access to HE Diploma (Social Science) (Q002518)

Our Access to HE: Social Science course is a nationally recognised qualification, designed for people who lack the formal qualifications required for direct entry into university. By studying these subjects, you will gain a better understanding of the dynamics of emotions, relationships and behaviours, whilst developing your essay writing skills to fully prepare you for the academic rigours of studying at degree level. You will be in college three days a week.

All of our Access to Higher Education courses are accredited by Gateway.

Available dates

There are no available sessions for the remainder of this academic year.

  • Duration

    31 weeks

  • Campus

    Hemel Hempstead Campus

  • Fees

    £3,022
Register your interest
  • Entry Criteria

    To join an Access to HE course, you’ll need one of the following in both English and maths:


    • GCSE grade 9–4 / A–C, Level 2 Functional Skills, or a recognised non-UK equivalent, or
    • to show through our initial assessment that you’re working at Level 2 in English and Level 1 in maths.

    All applicants will have an interview with a tutor and initial assessment. Where you already hold the qualifications above, the assessment is used to plan any extra support you may need, not to decide whether you get a place.

    If you do not meet the entry requirements for the Access to HE course, you may be eligible for the Pre-Access programme which allows students to study GCSEs in English Language and Maths/Level 2 equivalent, as well as a relevant subject qualification, preparing you for an Access to HE course.

  • What will I study?

    Within this course, students will cover a range of disciplines, these may include:

    • Criminology
    • Sociology of the Family
    • Aspects of Social Psychology
    • Child Development
    • Social Inequality
  • Future Prospects

    Following successful completion of this diploma, students will be able to progress to university to study a number of pathways, including psychology, sociology, social sciences and social studies. Make sure that you check with the university you wish to study at that they accept this course for your desired pathway.

Discover Your Path To Purpose

Are you looking to kickstart your career or boost your skills? Whether you’re looking to re-train, upskill, learn a new hobby or meet a community of like-minded people, our Adult professional and leisure courses are the perfect way to acheive your goals.
With a range of start dates and times and funding available for many of these courses, we’ve made sure our courses provide the flexibility and support you need to realise your ambitions.

Student Stories

Olivia Dunn

Olivia Dunn

Social Sciences Student - Durham University

Read my story

Find out more

We offer a variety of Access to Higher Education courses, designed for people who lack the traditional qualifications required for direct entry into university study. 


What is an Access to HE course?