Access to Higher Education: Diploma in Medical

Overview

This is an intensive yet rewarding course which is intended to provide a qualification equivalent to three A-levels, recognised by universities as sufficient for entry to medical related degree courses such as medicine, biomedical science, pharmacy, marine biology, dentistry and veterinary science.

Throughout the course, you will delve into an array of units that can prepare you for the medical career you want to work towards. From cell biology and human reproduction to reproductive biology and psychology for healthcare. With a broad scope, you can use this knowledge to progress into a specified area of medical study.

You will also be developing a wide range of academic study skills on the course, from essay writing to using ICT, leading you towards the Independent Academic Study unit, where you will have the chance to experience what producing a dissertation will be like, once you move onto university.

Course Content

Mandatory Units

Biology

• Cells, tissues and organs
• Digestion and the liver
• Homeostasis for healthcare
• Blood, circulation and gaseous exchange
• Medical Biochemistry

Chemistry

• Fundamentals of Chemistry
• Equilibria Acids and Buffers
• Reaction Kinetics and Energetics
• Separation and Analysis
• Medical Chemistry

Other Science/Mathematics

• Medical Physics 1
• Medical Physics 2
• Statistics

Study Skills

• Critical Thinking
• Study Skills for Medicine

Professional Behaviours

• Doctor-Patient Relationship
• Health Studies for Medicine

Optional Units

Biology

• The musculoskeletal system for healthcare
• Disease and body defence
• Reproductive biology

Chemistry

• Body Chemistry
• Drugs and food additives

Psychology

• Introduction to Psychology
• Psychology and Mental Health
• Psychology of health
• Applied Stress Management

Physics

• Mechanics and Kinematics
• Nuclear and Particle Physics

Mathematics

• Algebra
• Arithmetic
• Calculus

Assessments

You will be assessed through tutor assessed coursework. All assessments are internally and externally verified through a rigorous and robust process to ensure that all grading is consistent, fair and provides developmental feedback.

The coursework will involve:

• essays
• presentations
• examinations
• discussions
• a portfolio of evidence

Entry Requirements

You must be at least 18 years old (17 years old if study 100% online).

To be eligible for our program, applicants must meet the following academic and English language proficiency requirements:

Academic Qualifications

GCSE/IGCSE/HSSC or equivalent qualifications.

English Language Requirement

A minimum proficiency level of B1 in English. This can be demonstrated through one of the following language certifications:

• LanguageCert
• IELTS (International English Language Testing System)
• PTE (Pearson Test of English)

All applicants must provide valid documentation supporting their academic and English language qualifications during the application process.

Duration

• Full-time

University Progression

You may continue your university degree in the following areas:

• Applied Medical Sciences
• Biological Sciences
• Biomedical Sciences
• Biomedicine
• Bioscience
• Dentistry
• Medical Biochemistry
• Medical Bioscience
• Medical Physiology
• Medical Sciences
• Medicine
• Neuroscience
• Nutrition and Dietetics
• Occupational Therapy
• Ophthalmic Dispensing
• Optometry
• Pharmaceutical Science
• Pharmacology and Physiology
• Pharmacy
• Physiotherapy
• Podiatry
• Radiography
• Veterinary Medicine and Science

Further Information

Students planning to apply for Medicine, Veterinary Science/Medicine or Dentistry should be aware that you normally will need to complete either the BMAT or UCAT exams as well as a L3 course. These exams are organised externally to the college and normally need to be completed before application (before November of the year before you attend to start).

Important Note

To obtain the full Access to Higher Education Diploma in Medicine (QAA), students must complete at least 50% of the course within the UK. Students who are unable to travel to the UK or wish to complete the entire course outslide of the UK will receive Level 3 Diploma in Medicine and Medical Sciences upon successful completion of the programme. The Level 3 Diploma is validated by Open College Network South East Region (trading as Laser Learning Awards).