Access to Higher Education Diploma (Computer Science)

REF. 400/1512/9

This Access to Higher Education Diploma is a nationally recognised Level 3 qualification designed to help you progress to university and pursue a new future career.

Earn up to 144 UCAS tariff points and prepare for degree-level study through coursework-based assessment, without the need for traditional exams.

Course Options

£1,199.00

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Course duration

This course is typically completed within one year. You should plan to dedicate around 10 hours per week to independent study alongside your coursework.

An assessment schedule will be provided at the start of your course, clearly outlining when assignments are released and their submission deadlines to help you stay organised.

Course outcome

On successful completion, you will achieve an Access to Higher Education Diploma in Computer Science, a nationally recognised Level 3 qualification that supports progression to university study.

Entry requirements

Applicants must be aged 19 or over. You will usually need GCSE English Language and Maths at grade 4 (C) or above, although equivalent qualifications such as Functional Skills Level 2 in English and Maths may also be accepted.

If you are unsure whether you meet the requirements, our team will be happy to advise you.

Assessment

This course is assessed entirely through coursework, with no formal exams. You will complete a range of assignments, including written tasks, presentations and reports, designed to prepare you for degree-level study.

The Access to Higher Education Diploma in Social Science and Humanities is a nationally recognised Level 3 qualification designed for adults who want to progress to university and explore careers that focus on people, society and human behaviour.

Whether you’re returning to education or looking to change direction, this course provides a flexible and supportive route into higher education. You’ll gain a broad understanding of social issues, human development and cultural perspectives, alongside the academic skills needed for degree-level study.

Studied online, this diploma prepares you for progression to a wide range of university courses, including psychology, sociology, criminology, law, education and social work.

This course is designed to give you both subject-specific knowledge and the academic skills required for university study.
You will complete a total of 60 credits, including graded Level 3 units and study skills modules that prepare you for higher education.

Core study skills modules

  • Preparing for higher education
  • Academic writing and research skills
  • Digital communication and professional skills
  • Wellbeing and mental health

Mathematics for computing

  • Algebra and problem-solving techniques
  • Applying mathematical concepts in computing

Computer science units

  • Programming principles and coding fundamentals
  • Cyber security and threat prevention
  • Databases and SQL
  • Computer architecture and systems
  • Statistical techniques and data analysis
  • Cyber security compliance and ethical practice

These modules are designed to build your confidence and prepare you for real-world applications in the technology sector, as well as further academic study.

Units can be altered to fit your chosen degree and their entry requriments – so reach out to the team to discuss how this can work for a specific university course.

On successful completion, you will achieve an Access to Higher Education Diploma (Computer Science), a Level 3 qualification awarded by AIM Qualifications and Assessment Group.

This qualification is regulated by the Quality Assurance Agency for Higher Education (QAA), ensuring it meets nationally recognised standards and is widely accepted by universities across the UK.

Flexible online learning

This course is delivered fully online, allowing you to study from anywhere in the UK while balancing your learning with work, family or other commitments.

This course is designed to support progression to university degrees & career paths such as:

  • Computer Science
  • Software Engineering
  • Cyber Security
  • Data Science
  • Games Development
  • IT and Networking

It can also support entry into a wide range of digital careers, including software development, data analysis, UX design and IT consultancy.

Support throughout your studies

You’ll receive guidance from experienced tutors, regular feedback on your work, and support with your university application, including UCAS guidance.

Assessment method

There are no formal exams. Instead, you will be assessed through coursework such as assignments, reports and projects designed to prepare you for degree-level study.

You’ll receive ongoing support from experienced tutors, including one-to-one sessions, personalised feedback and guidance throughout your course to help you build confidence and succeed.

There are no formal exams. Instead, you will be assessed through coursework such as essays, reports, case studies and presentations, helping you develop the skills needed for university-level study.

What can I progress to after this course?

This diploma can lead to a wide range of university degrees, including computer science, software engineering, cyber security, games development and other technology-related subjects.

No prior experience is required. The course is designed to introduce key concepts and gradually build your knowledge and confidence in computer science.

There are no formal entry requirements for this course, although universities may require GCSEs in English and Maths when you apply for a degree.

Assessment is based entirely on coursework, with a range of written assignments completed throughout the course.

Most learners complete the course within 9–12 months, depending on their pace of study and personal commitments.