Access to Higher Education Diploma (Humanities and Social Science)
| Mode of study | Vocational Full-time |
| Duration | 38 Weeks |
| Campus | London Road Campus |
| Start date | 8 September 2025 |
| Tuition Fee | £3,022 |
| Exam/Reg Fee | £122 |
| Course code | FLR3ACC002 (2526) |
 AIM is a leading Access Validating Agency (AVA) licensed by the Quality Assurance Agency for Higher Education (QAA) to develop and award nationally recognised Access to Higher Education Diplomas. |
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Who is it for?
This course is designed to prepare students for degree-level study. It offers a rigorous standard of study in a supportive environment. Access to HE Diplomas are flexible and attractive to students who would like to improve their educational qualifications and are popular with students who may have been out of formal education for some time and who appreciate a more adult-friendly learning atmosphere.
Most students studying the Social Science and Humanities Diploma aim for careers in social work, teaching, criminology, history, English, law, psychology, or politics, but the range is not limited to these. -
Entry Requirements
GCSE English grade C/4+ (Other Level 2 English qualifications will be considered on a case by case basis.)
*GCSE maths or L2 Functional Skills may be studied alongside the part-time course.A commitment to study,
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What does the course involve?
Students wishing to study Social Sciences, Humanities or Education-related courses will enrol to the Access to HE Diploma (Social Science and Humanities). The modules of study are Psychology, Sociology, Literature, History and Skills for Learning.
The full-time programme runs over one year and the part-time programme is available over two years (34 weeks a year) day and evening to fit around other commitments and responsibilities. -
How is the course assessed?
The assessment techniques are varied throughout the programme and include essays, presentations, posters, and practical experiments. Modules are broken down into units and you are assessed at the end of each unit of study.
If you are completing an additional course such as GCSE maths, external examinations are required. -
How much does it cost?
Fees will be confirmed on application or via our website. In many instances, funding such as the Advanced Learner Loan may be available to cover the cost of the course. Successful completion of the Access to HE Diploma and your subsequent HE course currently means you do not have to pay this loan back.
While it is not required, some students choose to obtain additional books to assist their studies. -
Additional Notes
Guidance is offered at advice events, interviews and induction to ensure students are choosing the best pathway to meet the requirements for their intended university course.
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What do I do next?
You can apply online via the APPLY NOW button. You can also apply for a second, alternative programme of study such as A Levels via a separate application. If after reading this factsheet, you are still undecided about the course most suitable for you, please drop in to one of our Open Evenings, ring Admissions on 01743 653111 or email admissions@scg.ac.uk
Tasmin Broadway
Access to HE: Health
The tutors on the course are all really helpful and supportive nothing is ever too much trouble, they have set me up for what’s to come at university. It has been a life changing experience, a hard but an incredible journey.
Miranda Coombes
Access to HE: Health
The Access course has provided me with the skills I need to go onto higher education. Having spent a long time out of education, the course helped me to practice, and improve my academic writing, referencing and researching skills. It’s enabled me to build my knowledge around relevant subjects in preparation for University and increased my confidence. The assistance with my UCAS application was valuable, having it checked before applying strengthened my chances of being accepted into my University of choice. What really stood out to me was the support offered by the tutors, it’s fantastic, they encourage your independence whilst guiding and motivating you along the way.
Lizzie Evans
Foundation Degree in Health & Social Care
I chose to study a Foundation degree in Health at Shrewsbury Colleges Group as I could study alongside my job at the time (in social work). I found the course manageable and worked hard to fit the work around my job/life. My tutors were super supportive as I was an adult learner returning to studying for the first time since school and things have moved on a bit since that time! I used the FD as a stepping stone to progress into a full degree in Health Studies at university and the skills learned enabled me to attain a first in my degree. I am now the co-owner of a business related to the health sector and have a great work/ life balance. I would recommend the course to potential students, young and old as I am not an academic person but was prepared to put the work in and it paid off for me.
James Garbutt
Access to HE: Health
This course has been my first big step towards a career in healthcare and I'm really glad I chose to study it. I now feel prepared for University.
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