Access to Higher Education Diploma (Nursing)

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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 Nursing, 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 Nursing is a nationally recognised Level 3 qualification designed for adults who want to progress to university and begin a career in healthcare.

Whether you’re returning to education or looking for a new direction, this course provides a clear and supportive pathway into higher education. You’ll develop the knowledge, skills and confidence needed to move into degree-level study and pursue roles such as adult nursing, mental health nursing or children’s nursing.

Delivered fully online, the course offers the flexibility to study around your existing commitments while working towards a structured programme that prepares you for university success.

This diploma is structured to develop both your subject knowledge in health and nursing, as well as the academic skills required for higher education.

You will complete a total of 60 credits, including graded units in your subject area alongside ungraded study skills modules.

Core study skills modules

  • Preparing for higher education
  • Academic writing and research skills
  • Communication in health and social care
  • Professional behaviours and ethics

Health and nursing units

  • Human biology and anatomy
  • Health and disease
  • Psychology in health and social care
  • Public health and wellbeing
  • Safeguarding and ethical practice
  • The role of the healthcare professional

These units are designed to reflect the knowledge and skills expected in nursing-related degree programmes, helping you feel prepared and confident when progressing to university.

Flexible units to support your progression

Units can be adapted to align with your chosen university degree and its specific entry requirements. If you have a particular course or university in mind, our team can help tailor your studies to support your application.

On successful completion, you will be awarded an Access to Higher Education Diploma (Nursing), a Level 3 qualification regulated by the Quality Assurance Agency for Higher Education (QAA).

The diploma is awarded by AIM Qualifications and Assessment Group and is widely accepted by universities across the UK.

Flexible online learning

Study from anywhere in the UK with full access to your course materials online. The course is designed to fit around your lifestyle, allowing you to balance study with work, family and other commitments.

This course is designed to support entry into a wide range of healthcare degrees, including:

  • Adult Nursing
  • Mental Health Nursing
  • Children’s Nursing
  • Midwifery
  • Allied Health Professions

You’ll receive ongoing support from experienced tutors, including one-to-one sessions, personalised feedback and guidance throughout your course. Support is available to help you stay on track and build confidence in your studies.

There are no formal exams. Instead, you will be assessed through coursework such as essays, reports, case studies and presentations, helping you develop skills relevant to university study.

Do I need previous healthcare experience?

No previous experience in healthcare is required. The course is designed to introduce key concepts and build your knowledge from the ground up.

This diploma prepares you for university study in a range of healthcare subjects, particularly nursing and related professions.

You must be aged 19 or over. Universities may require GCSE English and Maths (or equivalent) when you apply for a degree.

Assessment is based entirely on coursework, with no exams. You will complete a range of assignments designed to prepare you for degree-level study.

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