Courses

Access to HE Diploma (Biochemical Science)

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  • Course Type
    Adult Courses
  • Course Code
    AE303
  • Campus
    Twelve Quays
  • Start Date
    10th Sep
  • Level
    Level 3
  • Duration
    1 year

Are you looking to study Biochemical Science or a related subject at university? Our Access to Higher Education - Biochemical Science Course is designed to prepare you for entry to a Degree or Higher Diploma course in Science subjects that require Biology and Chemistry.

This course provides a strong foundation in key scientific principles, equipping you with the knowledge and skills needed for degree-level study.

Whether you're returning to education or changing career paths, this diploma is your gateway to university and a future in the biochemical field.

  • Course Details

    This course is comprised of two modules:

    • Biology
    • Chemistry

    The additional third unit studied focuses on developing research skills.

    Credits are awarded for the Access course modules. To achieve the Access Diploma, you must gain all 60 credits, including a minimum of 45 credits at Level 3. There are 18 units of 3 credits each and one unit of 6 credits; 9 units of biology, 9 of chemistry plus the research unit. 14 units (45 credits) are graded, while 5 units (15 credits) must be passed but are not graded and used as introductory units to build confidence and knowledge. All units are level 3.

  • Can I study for free?

    Aged 19—23:

    • Free if you live in the Liverpool City Region (Wirral, Liverpool, Sefton, Knowsley, St Helens or Halton) and do not already have a full Level 3 qualification

    Aged 24+:

    Fees apply, but student loans are available to most learners through the Student Loans Company. If funded through an Advanced Learner Loan and you go on to complete an eligible degree, the remainder of the loan is written off.

    Details available at: https://www.wmc.ac.uk/student-experience/financial-support/adult-courses

  • Entry Guidelines

    You must be 19 or over on or before 31st August to study on this course.

    4 GCSEs at grade 4/C or above including two GCSE Science subjects, Maths and English or BTEC Level 2 Applied Science/Pre Access and Grade 4/C or above in Maths and English.

    Satisfactory interview and assessment (written/comprehension task) where you should demonstrate your understanding of the career you want to progress to.

    If English is not your first language, you may need an assessment before enrolling on this course. To discuss further, please contact the ESOL department on 0151 551 7144.

  • Where can I progress to?

    This course may enable you to progress onto the following Higher Education courses;

    Zoology, Marine Biology, Biochemistry, Biomedical Science, Chemistry, Genetics, Environmental Science, Physiotherapy, Nursing, Pharmacy, Podiatry, Dental Therapy.

    There will be opportunities to attend university open days and other suitable events throughout the course. Obtaining the Access to HE Diploma in Biochemical science does not guarantee entry into any HE course.

  • Timetable

    Two days per week.

  • Assessment Methods

    Assessment is continuous with reports, essays, tests, assignments and laboratory work. The Access to HE Diploma is awarded by openawards.org made up of 60 credits.

If you're not eligible to study for free, the cost of this course is:

£3384.00

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Hi, I’m Ailz. What I love most about education is the opportunity to make a genuine difference to people’s lives, help them recognise their own potential, and open doors to new careers and pathways. I began my career teaching English in Further Education, before becoming a mentor for trainee teachers through their placement years. I really enjoyed mentoring and coaching trainees, helping them develop their practice and discover their own strengths as teachers. This led me into teacher education, where I now work as a Programme Lead, supporting the next generation of teachers in the Further Education and Skills sector.

I care deeply about social mobility, the importance of positive relationships, and helping students feel confident and engaged in their learning. I’m a nurturing and approachable teacher educator, and I’m committed to ensuring that every trainee I work with feels encouraged, valued, and supported as they develop their practice.

I’m Sasha. What I enjoy most about working in education is helping people build confidence and realise their full potential. I spent 13 years working as a teaching assistant and Learning Support Assistant before moving into teaching Health and Social Care and Access courses with learners aged 16 and over. These experiences shaped my belief in the importance of positive relationships and adapting teaching to meet individual needs.

Mentoring trainee teachers and coaching colleagues sparked my interest in teacher education, which I moved into in 2024. I enjoy helping trainees connect theory with classroom practice, try out new approaches and find their own confidence as teachers. I aim to create a supportive space where they can ask questions, reflect honestly and feel comfortable seeking advice.

I have a degree in Psychology, a master’s in Mental Health, a PGCE, the National Professional Qualification in Leading Teacher Development and a Postgraduate Certificate in Coaching and Mentoring in Education. These studies continue to inform my interests in inclusive teaching, wellbeing, and supporting others to develop their practice.