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Access to HE Diploma (Social Sciences) - Level 3
Overview
Do you have a fascination with why people do what they do? Are you looking to make a positive difference in the community? A career in social work, youth work, probation, social care, and more could be a perfect choice for you.
Access to HE Diploma (Social Sciences) is specifically designed for adults (19+) returning to education, and provides the skills and knowledge needed for higher education - without traditional entry requirements. You'll cover key topics such as psychology, study skills, and sociology in small, friendly and supportive classes. It prepares you for university and a future in careers including social work, youth work, probation, social care, youth justice, psychologist, therapist, and more.
You can prepare by reading around your subject via our booklist and purchase recommended items from our kit list. Please be aware that as an Access learner you might be eligible to receive a college laptop for you to use for the duration of your course.
Once you’ve finished your Access to HE course, you may choose to stay and study a higher education course at the NTU Mansfield Centre on our Derby Road campus, which is run by Nottingham Trent University.
On successful completion of the course you will be awarded an Access to HE Diploma from Cambridge Access Validating Agency (CAVA). Find out more on the cava website.
What will I study?
You will study a range of modules which include:
- Study skills
- Law (optional)
- Psychology
- Sociology.
Start date, attendance and fee
- Start date - September 2026
- Attendance - Two and a half to three days per week
- Fee - £3,022 (See 'Funding options')
If you are aged 19-23 (as of 31 August 2025) and studying your first Level 3 course then that course may be free. Please contact us for more details. If you are aged 19 or over and either studying a second Level 3 course or qualifying Level 4, 5 or 6 course you may be able to apply for an Advanced Learner Loan to cover the costs.
FAQs
We have created a downloadable document that lists all our most frequently asked questions.
- Adult learning support and guidance
Starting something new can feel like a big step, but you don’t have to do it alone. From careers guidance to mental health and wellbeing, we’re here to support you before you apply and throughout your time with us.
- Entry requirements
This course is only available to adults aged 19+.
- GCSE grade 4-9 (C or above) in English Language and maths.
- You are strongly advised to complete a work placement before joining the course.
Don’t have the required GCSEs? No problem!
We’re here to help you get ready for your next step.
- Need one GCSE? Study it alongside our Preparation for Access to HE - Level 2 course.
- Need both GCSEs? Join our GCSEs for Access to HE courses - Level 2 course, designed just for adult learners.
You’ll take a short assessment to see what support you need. Then, we’ll guide you to the best option.
- Assessment
In order to prepare you for university, the assessments on this course will be varied. You will deliver professional presentations, write academic essays and reports, and sometimes sit an exam.
- Progression
This course offers you the potential to enter an extensive variety of professions (subject to your chosen degree* and entry requirements), including social work, youth work, probation, social care, youth justice, psychologist, therapist, and more.
*To find out how many UCAS points this course carries, and to receive advice on your Higher Education options, please contact the college’s enquiries team on 0808 100 3626 and ask to be transferred to the Head of Department for this subject area. They can provide the most up-to-date information.
As a partner college of Nottingham Trent University (NTU), you may also be eligible for a range of benefits if you choose to progress to NTU after completing your course. For more information, please visit Progress NTU.
- Careers
- Qualifications gained
- Access to HE Diploma (Social work)
- CAVA
- Funding options
Don't let paying for this course hold you back from achieving your goals. There are different funding routes available for adult learners. Dependent on your personal circumstances, you may be eligible to:
- Apply for an Advanced Learner Loan
- Split the cost of courses over four instalments
- Apply for additional financial support.
Did you know? If you successfully go on to complete a Higher Education qualification following an Access to HE course, you won’t have to pay your Advanced Learner Loan back at all.
For more information please contact 0808 100 3626 or email
This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. . - Studying Access to Higher Education at West Notts College
Visit our access to higher education subject area page to explore the full range of courses available.
Disclaimer
Whilst every effort is made to ensure the information on the website is correct, some details may be subject to change. West Nottinghamshire College reserves the right to make amendments to the courses, dates, fees or other details, and to make cancellations or changes if numbers are insufficient. In the unfortunate situation that we have to cancel a course we will refund your fees in full, but we regret we are not able to offer any refund if you withdraw from your course or fail to start, and you will be liable to pay any outstanding fees that may be due.