Discover our Access to Higher Education Courses
It’s never too late to start studying for a degree! Check out our Access to Higher Education courses at HSDC.
Our Access to HE Diplomas are designed with you in mind, and have helped to transform the lives of thousands of adult students.
These intensive pathways lead to a diploma qualification at Level 3 (equivalent to A Level) that allow you to study part time, whilst still working or meeting other commitments.
Our Diplomas are fully recognised by universities and other HE providers as meeting the entry criteria for a wide range of degree courses. At HSDC, our part time Access to Higher Education courses give you the chance to proceed to university with superb grades in just one year.
PLUS, you could study this Access to Higher Education course for FREE! If you pass the Diploma and go on to complete an eligible higher education course, your Advanced Learner Loan will be written off by Student Finance England. Find out more below.
Our Access to Higher Education courses are suited to those who may have been out of education for a while and have decided to either pursue a new career or upskill in their existing career.
Our students come from a wide age range and varied backgrounds and have made a conscious decision to return to education. They have the advantage of life experience, and sometimes employment, to draw upon, which can make them ideal candidates for a range of Higher Education courses.
Our Access to Higher Education courses are taught by a team of specialist subject lecturers. You will be supported throughout your course, allowing you to develop your academic study skills as well as enhanced subject knowledge.
Tutors and our Careers Department will also offer advice and guidance on the completion of your application to university (The UCAS process).
Few formal qualifications are required, but entry requirements will vary according to your chosen pathway. All Access to Higher Education courses will require you to have achieved a Level 2 qualification in English Language and Maths.
To enrol on these Adult Learning courses, you must be aged 18 years or over.
Business and Information Technology
Two evenings a week (Tues & Thurs) 5.30 – 9.30pm at our South Downs Campus
Healthcare Professions, including Nursing
Two mornings a week (Tues & Thurs) 9.30am – 1.30pm at Havant Campus
OR
Two evenings a week (Tues & Thurs) 5.30 – 9.30pm at our South Downs Campus
Humanities and Social Sciences
Two evenings a week (Tues & Thurs) 5.30 – 9.30pm at our South Downs Campus
Pre-Access
One day a week (Mon) at our Havant Campus
Science
Two evenings a week (Tues & Thurs) 5.30 – 9.30pm at our South Downs Campus
Teaching & Education
Two evenings a week (Tues & Thurs) 5.30 – 9.30pm at our South Downs Campus
The full cost of an Access to Higher Education course at HSDC is in the region of £3,400*; however, there are many circumstances in which students can study for free or at a reduced rate.
Ages 19-23 without a full Level 3 qualification
If you are in this age category and do not have a full Level 3 qualification, such as two full A Levels, a BTEC National Diploma or equivalent, there are no course fees payable. Please speak to a member of our Adult Learning Team for more information.
Advanced Learner Loans
These are available for individuals aged 19 or above to undertake Access to Higher Education courses. Loans are not means-tested or subject to credit checks, and any individual who meets the criteria will be able to apply for a loan regardless of their current employment status.
If you pass the Diploma qualification and go on to achieve a full degree, the loan is waived i.e. the loan does not have to be repaid. This offer is unique to Access to HE Diplomas. For further information please contact our Admissions department on 023 9387 9999 or see the government website.
* Course fees vary, please enquire for exact figures.
Please note that you must be aged 19 or over to be eligible to study an Access to Higher Education course.
How to apply for Access to Higher Education courses at HSDC
Applying to study at HSDC is simple!
- Simply navigate to a access course that suits you.
- To apply, hit the “Apply Now” button.
- Complete the application form. Once you have submitted your application, our Adult Learning Team will contact you within 48 hours.
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| What is an Access to Higher Education course? | An Access to Higher Education (HE) course is a Level 3 diploma qualification designed for adults who want to progress to university but may not currently have the required qualifications. These intensive courses provide the subject knowledge and academic study skills needed for higher education. They are equivalent to A Levels and are recognised by universities as meeting entry requirements for many degree programmes. |
| Who can apply for an Access course? | Access to Higher Education courses are designed for adult learners aged 19 or over who want to return to education. Typical applicants include people who:
Applicants must usually have Level 2 qualifications in English and Maths (such as GCSEs or equivalent). |
| How long does it take to complete an Access course? | Most Access to Higher Education diplomas can be completed in one year when studied part-time. At HSDC, courses typically run:
This flexible schedule allows students to continue working or manage other commitments while studying. |
| Are Access courses free or subsidized? | Access courses may be free or subsidised depending on your circumstances. For example:
The full course cost is typically around £3,400, but many students do not pay this upfront. |
| Can I get funding for an Access to Higher Education course? | Yes. Students aged 19 or older can apply for an Advanced Learner Loan through Student Finance England. Key points:
If you successfully complete the Access diploma and then complete an eligible university degree, the loan is written off and does not need to be repaid. |
Advanced Learner Loans are available for all our Access to Higher Education courses.
PLUS, if you pass the Access to HE Diploma and go on to complete an eligible higher education course, your Advanced Learner Loan will be written off by Student Finance England.