Access to HE Medical Science

Access to HE Medical Science
Access to Higher Education Diploma (Biosciences)
An Access course is an intense learning opportunity, aimed at adults who wish to study at university but don’t necessarily have the qualifications to apply.
Is this course right for me?
This course is designed for learners who may not have any recent qualifications which enable them to gain entry onto a degree level course. The learner will gain a sound overview of the human body and environmental pollution.
This is an intensive course which requires a high level of dedication and ideally 100% attendance. You will be required to study outside normal college hours in order to complete assignments and undertake background reading. Candidates must be certain they are ready for both the academic demands and the workload of the programme in order to achieve the Diploma at a standard required for university entry.
Please note you may be required to complete an online introduction to study programme during the Summer. Further information will be provided at your information session.
This course normally runs over three days per week.
What are the entry requirements?
- Three GCSEs at grade C or above to include English Language/First Language Welsh and Mathematics/Numeracy and Science
- Life skills, experience and maturity are important
- Successful completion of online summer programme
- Each application is considered on individual merit
- Entry is subject to attending a course information session or informal interview
Current student - what are the entry requirements?
- Successful completion of Skills for Further Study, GCSE English Language/First Language Welsh and Mathematics/Numeracy (and Science for Biosciences) at grade C or above in addition to successful decision from progression board meeting
- Successful completion of online summer programme
What will I learn?
This course is an intense modular course.
Modules include:
- Biology
- Chemistry
- Anatomy and physiology
- Level 3 mathematics
- Environmental science
- Communication
Within these modules individual units include:
- Planning and Time Management
- Academic skills
- Access to higher education – investigative project/extended essay
- Core mathematics – algebra and graphs
- Core mathematics – application of mathematics
- Mathematics – statistics
- Using graphs
- Waves in sight and hearing
- Enzymes
- Analytical procedures in chemistry
- Atomic structure
- The chemistry of living cells
- Microbiology and health
- Cell structure and transport
- The cardiovascular system
- The human skeletal system
- Genetics and heredity
Will I need to study additional English & Maths skills?
- the course you are taking at College
- what grades you gained in your GCSE Maths and/or English Language
If you are studying a construction/trade course (brickwork, carpentry, electrical or plumbing):
- Essential Skills Wales (ESW) in Application of Number and Communications
All other courses:
- Wales Essential Skills Toolkit (WEST) in upskilling / Lessons in Financial Education
- A one year GCSE resit course in required subject/s
- A one or two year pre-GCSE upskilling course
- A one year GCSE START upskilling course
Can I do this course in Welsh?
Learners have the option to complete course assessment/assignments or elements of the course through the medium of Welsh or bilingually. Visit our Welsh Language in the College page to find out what else is available to you.
How will I be assessed?
- Continuous assessment during the course
- Practical assessment during the course
What can I do next?
The course will provide an entry route for University courses in dietetics, physiotherapy, radiography, science based degrees including animal care, environmental science, food science, forensic science and other science based courses. Also useful for careers in science teaching, computer science and nursing.
If you are thinking about studying at degree level following this course please visit the university websites or UCAS (University Central Admissions Service) www.ucas.com to check any entry requirements.
Do I need to bring/buy any equipment?
- Stationery - you will be told about any specific items before you start the course
- Textbooks - you will be told about any specific items before you start the course, most textbooks are available to loan from the college library or online libraries
- A memory stick/a small portable USB hard drive
- A scientific calculator
- You may be eligible for funding. Find out more on our student finance page
Any costs above are approximate and may change.
Are there any additional costs?
- No tuition fee
- We are waiving the Administration Fee for the academic year 2025/26
- You will need to pay a £30 access workshop fee each year before you start the course
- You can rent a locker for £10 per year this will be refunded if the locker remains undamaged and keys are returned
- You may be eligible for funding. Find out more on our student finance page
Any costs above are approximate and may change.
Additional information
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Online Learning Elements? | Yes |
Sports Academy: While on this course you may be able to join our Sports Academy, if you have a talent for sport, find out what we offer on our Sports Academy page.