Courses

Access to HE Diploma (Social Science)

Print this page

  • Course Type
    Adult Courses
  • Course Code
    AE307
  • Campus
    Hamilton
  • Start Date
    7th Sep
  • Level
    Level 3
  • Duration
    1 year

Many adults can study this course for free. Check the 'Can I study for free?' section below to see if you're eligible.

This course is for students who are 19 or above.

This course is a preparation for entry to a degree or Higher Diploma course in Social Sciences. It covers units in Psychology, Sociology, Criminology and 'Development' AKA Study Skills.

  • Course Details

    Study comprises three areas:

    Psychology, Sociology and Criminology credits are awarded for each Access course module. To achieve the Access Diploma, you must gain 60 credits.

    15 credits are gained from developmental modules designed to improve your academic and personal skills. The Access to HE Diploma is awarded by openawards.org.uk.

  • 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.

    • To study a Level 3 qualification, you will need:
    • Level 2 Functional Skills English and Maths or GCSE English and Maths at grade 4/C or above.
    • Satisfactory interview and/or assessment, where other requirements for progression to higher education courses will be discussed.

    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?

    Degree or Higher Diploma courses in Social Science subjects, such as Psychology, Sociology, and Criminology.

    Obtaining the Access to HE Diploma in Social Science does not guarantee entry into any HE course.

  • Timetable

    This course runs two days per week.

  • Assessment Methods

    Assessments are continuous and include:

    • reports
    • essays
    • assignments
    • presentations
    • examinations

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

£3022.00

Related Careers

Upcoming Events

19 Nov

Met at the Square- Thanksgiving
6pm - 8pm

12 Jan

January 2027 Open Evening - The Oval
5pm - 7pm

News & Student Life

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.