Access to Higher Education Diploma (Medical Science)
The Medical Science Diploma is for those (19+) returning to education and wishing to pursue a degree, and subsequent career in Medical Science or the Allied Health Professions. There is a national shortage of staff in the Allied Health Professions sector, which includes Occupational therapists; Operating department practitioners; Orthoptists; Osteopaths; Paramedics; Physiotherapists; Podiatrists; Prosthetists and orthotists. There are also many careers as technicians in areas such as cardiac and respiratory medicine.
This Diploma covers more body systems than the Access to HE (Science) pathway but that is a possible alternative course of study that is also offered full time or part time.
You should have a GCSE grade 4 in English and/or maths. Alternatively, you must have a functional skills Level 2 qualification should your chosen university accept this.
You may be able to 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
It is desirable if you have a clear idea of the university course that you would like to apply for.
Please check your Higher Education institute choice/s for their entry requirements.
Both maths and English GCSE grade 4 (or equivalent) are required 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)
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 English
- You must have a GCSE Grade 4(C) in Maths
Biochemistry
Anatomy
Cell Biology
Body Systems and Homeostasis
Genetics
Atomic Structure and Bonding
Chemical Equilibria
Hydrocarbons
Scientific Project
Academic Study Techniques and Presentation Skills
Course Applications
Please choose your preferred study option below (subject to change).
This course costs: £3504.00
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.
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