Access to Higher Education Diploma (Social Science and Humanities)

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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 Social Science and Humanities, 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 diploma is designed to develop both your subject knowledge across social sciences and humanities, as well as the academic skills required for higher education.

You will complete a total of 60 credits, including graded subject units and ungraded study skills modules.

Core study skills modules

  • Preparing for higher education
  • Academic writing and research skills
  • Communication in healthcare settings
  • Professional behaviours and ethics

Midwifery and health units

  • Psychology and human behaviour
  • Sociology and contemporary society
  • Criminology and the justice system
  • Social policy and inequality
  • Cultural studies and perspectives
  • Ethics and social responsibility

You’ll explore how individuals and societies interact, examining real-world issues such as crime, inequality, mental health and social change.

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 achieve an Access to Higher Education Diploma (Social Science and Humanities), a Level 3 qualification awarded by AIM Qualifications and Assessment Group.

This qualification is regulated by the Quality Assurance Agency for Higher Education (QAA) 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 through an online platform. The course is designed to fit around your commitments, allowing you to balance study with work or other responsibilities.

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

  • Psychology
  • Sociology
  • Criminology
  • Law
  • Social Work
  • Education and Teaching
  • Politics and International Relations

It can lead to careers in areas such as social services, education, criminal justice, counselling, public sector roles and policy development.

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.

Do I need previous experience in social sciences?

No prior experience is required. The course is designed to introduce key concepts and gradually build your understanding.

You can apply to a wide range of university degrees, including psychology, sociology, criminology, law and education.

You must be aged 19 or over. Most universities will require GCSE English and Maths (or equivalent) when applying 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.