Access to Higher Education Diploma - Social Sciences (September 2025 Start)

This Access to Higher Education (Social Science) Diploma course is designed for people aged 19 or older who are considering progressing to university and don't currently hold the necessary entry requirements. The course has been developed for adults who missed out on higher education when they were younger or would like a change of career. The Study Programme aims to provide a firm foundation for progression to study at degree level. For this reason, study skills and educational support and guidance form essential elements of the programme. In addition, group and individual tutorial sessions support students and offer guidance with the UCAS process and study skills.

The Diploma is taught by subject specialist teaching staff in a supportive environment to develop the academic skills necessary to progress onto higher education. You will have homework and assignment work set each week with strict deadlines. There is around 15 hours of additional study at home each week so it is important to ensure that you can plan this into your weekly schedule.

Access to Higher Education Diploma - Social Science

Learners who achieve this qualification could progress to higher and degree level study in a range of areas. As the study of society and how human behaviour influences our world and our health, an Access to Higher Education Diploma in Social Science is perfect for those wishing to pursue a career in Health and Social Care, Psychology and Sociology, as well as many other disciplines. Studying social sciences can transcend across many different industries and social science graduates can be found in almost every occupational field ranging from education and public services to health and social care. You would be welcome to discuss your options with your tutor. If you are unsure of your options, you might like to discuss your journey with our dedicated careers advisors.

You will study a range of units that make up the overall Diploma. Unit subjects include Sociology and Social Policy, Psychology and Criminology. Throughout the Diploma, you will also develop transferable skills such as effective communication, working with others, interpreting information and accuracy and attention to detail.

The course is taught by well qualified and experienced lecturers who are dedicated to ensuring student success through effective curriculum delivery and high-quality student support. The team includes staff with relevant sector experience and expertise.

There will be a variety of teaching methods used throughout the course, including individual practical work, small group exercises, on-line research, group presentations, whole class teaching and peer assessment. You will be supported and encouraged to develop and practice the skills that will enable you to become an independent learner and fully prepare you for Higher Education.

As an adult learner at Yeovil College, you will be able to access a range of support and services, including our dedicated Learning Resource Centre, a wealth of resources from our team of expert careers advisors, and a range of wellbeing support.

Depending on prior learning or financial situation, you may be entitled to a fully funded course, please contact our friendly iZone team via 01935423921 or email izone@yeovil.ac.uk.

Some learners, depending on financial situation, may be entitled to apply for an Advanced Learning Loan. To find out more, please don't hesitate to contact our friendly iZone team via 01935423921 or email izone@yeovil.ac.uk.

The Access to HE (Social Science) Diploma is predominantly based upon continuous assessment (coursework). There will be a variety of teaching methods used throughout the course, including individual practical work, small group exercises, on-line research, group presentations, whole class teaching and peer assessment. You will be supported and encouraged to develop and practice the skills that will enable you to become an independent learner and fully prepare you for Higher Education.

The assessment methodology will take a variety of forms including:

• Essay
• Presentations (with hand-outs/notes)
• Report
• Micro-Teach
• Case Study
• Independent Research Study

Learners should be aged nineteen or above to undertake this qualification.

This course requires a good level of written English, so we ask for applicants to hold either a GCSE in English at grade C / 4, or an equivalent (e.g. Functional Skills Level 2).

Please note that progression onto some higher education programmes will require GCSE Maths and English passes and Functional Skills level 2 Maths and English may not be accepted. Please check the individual university entry requirements for more information.
If you don't yet hold your GCSE English (or equivalent), you can look through our website or contact our friendly iZone team to find out more about the GCSE and Functional Skills courses we offer.

No previous experience is necessary

Apply online by clicking the button below. If you have any questions about your application, please don't hesitate to contact our friendly iZone team via 01935423921 or email izone@yeovil.ac.uk.