Access to Higher Education Diploma (Science) – Biology, Chemistry and Applied Science (Pathway A)
The Access to Higher Education Diploma (Science) Biology, Chemistry and Applied Science (Pathway A) is for those (19+) returning to education and wishing to pursue a degree, and subsequent career in an aspect of Biology (e.g. Microbiology, Genetics, Biomedicine) or Chemistry.
It is essential for Health Sector degrees, such as Dietetics, and suitable for competitive degrees such as Midwifery, Paramedic, and Physiotherapy.
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.
This pathway is also offered as a part-time course delivered one day a week over two years. In addition, there is an Access to Higher Education Diploma (Science) Mathematics, Physics and Chemistry (Pathway B) course that is more suitable for those wanting a degree and career in these subjects, or in any branch of engineering.
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)

Course Details
- You must have a GCSE Grade 4(C) in Maths
- You must have a GCSE Grade 4(C) in English
Biochemistry Cell Biology Cell Metabolism Body Systems and Homeostasis Gene Technology Atomic Structure and Bonding Chemical Elements and Reactions Chemical Equilibrium Functional groups Medical Physics
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.
This course is fully funded for 16-18 year olds (if applicable to the course).
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.
"I left the army in August 2016 after serving as a front-line medic for 7 years. I decided to visit the college to explore my options as I knew I wanted to pursue a career as a vet. I chose to study an Access to Higher Education course with pathways in Chemistry, Biology and Applied Science - alongside my GCSE maths and English. The staff at the college have been very supportive. Their industry experience and depth of knowledge has been invaluable to my journey. I recently had an interview at the University of Bristol and was offered a place at the School of Veterinary Sciences – one of only 6 in the UK. The college provided me with a stepping stone to my desired career."Rebecca Williams