Access to Higher Education: Diploma in Health and Social Care

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 healthcare-related degree courses such as midwifery, nursing, paramedic science, psychology and physiotherapy.

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

• Cells, tissues and organs
• Digestion and the liver
• Homeostasis for healthcare
• The musculoskeletal system for healthcare
• Blood, circulation and gaseous exchange
• Disease and body defence
• Reproductive biology
• Independent Academic Study (Professional Studies)
• Giving a presentation to an audience
• Skills for study: Essay writing
• Skills for study: Research
• Skills for study: Writing
• Understanding Mathematics

Optional Units

Professional Studies

• Developing professional practice in healthcare
• Understanding health and wellbeing
• Understanding health promotion and health education
• Understanding mental health

Psychology

• Introduction to psychology
• Psychology and mental health
• Applied Stress Management
• Psychology of Early Socialisation

Sociology

• Introduction to Sociology
• Social Research Methods
• The sociology of family
• The sociology of health

Chemistry

• Body Chemistry
• Fundamentals of chemistry
• Drugs and food additives
• Organic Chemistry

Study Formats

This programme is available in the following formats:

• 100% online – weekly timetabled lessons.
• On-campus at our learning centres in England.
• Hybrid – combination of online and on-campus studies at our learning centres in England.

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 in Reading, UK: 6 months
• Full-time Online: 9 months
• Part-time online: 18-24 months
• Hybrid: 3 months online + 6 months in Reading, UK

Important Note

To obtain the full Access to Higher Education Diploma (Healthcare Professions), students must complete at least 50% of the course within the UK or provide a valid UK address as required by QAA. 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 Healthcare Studies upon successful completion of the programme. The Level 3 Diploma is validated by Open College Network South East Region (trading as Laser Learning Awards).