Access to Higher Education Diploma (Humanities)
Access to Higher Education Diploma (Humanities) is perfect for those aiming to pursue new careers in a multitude of sectors, including education, journalism, the heritage sector, the civil service, and many more areas.
You will study three distinct subject areas: History, English Literature, Sociology, and Study Skills. You will cover content such as the Holocaust, the Tudor period, study of a novel, short stories, and poetry, as well as understanding more of society, poverty, and family structures.
The Diploma will run over one year and during this time you will develop the skills necessary to progress onto university study. Past students have progressed to a multitude of different degrees, ranging from History, English Literature, English Language, Creative Writing, Social Sciences, Law, Politics, as well as more specialist pathways (for example Theatre Studies, Events Management, and Korean Studies).
It is desirable if you have a clear idea of the university course that you would like to apply for
Both Maths and English GCSE grade 4 (or equivalent) are required for all Access Diplomas (exceptions will be considered if you do not need meet this criteria in order to progress to your selected Higher Education Institute).
If you are under 24, and haven’t achieved a Level 3 before, your course can be funded. Alternatively, you can apply for an Advanced Learner Loan to pay for your course fees, which you will not have to repay if you progress to University and complete your degree.
Please check the website of your chosen university for their entry requirements.
The Diploma is accredited by AIM Qualifications and Assessment Group.
Upon successful completion of this course, there is an approved progression route to Foundation Degrees here at University Centre South Devon – part of South Devon College. See below the list of programmes you can progress onto:
Visit www.ucsd.ac.uk or email [email protected] for more information on these progression routes.

Course Details
- You must have a GCSE Grade 4(C) in Maths
- You must have a GCSE Grade 4(C) in English
- You must have English and Maths GCSE Grade 4(C) or equivalent for all Access to HE Diplomas (exceptions will be considered if you do not need this criteria in order to progress to your selected Higher Education Institute)
Introduction to Sociology Sociology of education
The Novel, Poetry and Short Stories British education post 1870
Shakespeare
Course Applications
Please choose your preferred study option below (subject to change).
This course costs: £3142.00
If the amount shown is more than £0.00 and you are aged 19 and over at the start of the course, you may have options to help fund your studies with us. The funding you can receive depends on your personal circumstances, and could mean you are entitled to fully subsidised or reduced tuition fees.
Many of our courses are fully funded for 16-18 year olds however not all courses are available for this age group.
You may also be entitled to support with travel, childcare and equipment.
To find out exactly what you could receive, contact our Helpzone team on 08000 380 123 for a free, impartial appointment, with no commitment necessary.
“During my career I have gained a broad range of skills relating to early years education and childcare, and I can now pass that knowledge on to new learners. It’s fantastic to support learners in achieving their goals and helping them find employment in this rewarding industry.”Stefanie Crinks