Access to HE Diploma (Nursing)
What is the Course About?
The Open Awards Access to Higher Education (HE) Diploma is designed specifically for mature learners aged 18 and over who have valuable life and work experience but may not hold the qualifications traditionally required for university.
This programme gives you the subject knowledge, academic confidence and study skills you need to progress into university-level nursing or healthcare degrees. You’ll learn how to approach higher level study, complete research, manage academic workload, and build strong foundations for future success.
The Nursing pathway is delivered over one year, typically spanning 32–34 weeks, with classes held over two or three days per week. Students usually attend for around 15 hours weekly, and additional independent study is expected.
As an intensive Level 3 qualification, the course requires commitment, organisation and a willingness to work consistently throughout the year. Delivery is subject to minimum student numbers.
The Access to HE Diploma allows you to start exploring nursing and healthcare related subjects while developing essential academic skills such as research, essay writing and critical thinking.
To pass the Diploma, you must achieve 60 credits:
•15 ungraded credits (study skills and preparation for university)
•45 graded credits (awarded at Pass, Merit or Distinction)
The graded credits are split evenly between:
•Biology
•Psychology
•Specialist Nursing and Health Professions modules
Each module includes five units, and every unit has its own coursework assignment. All assignments are assessed internally by lecturers —there are no exams.
This combination of subjects has been carefully chosen to prepare you for degrees in areas such as:
•Adult Nursing
• Mental Health Nursing
• Other health profession pathways
Will I need a DBS check for this course?
No, you will not need a DBS check for this course
Will I need any specific resources, uniform and/or kit?
No, you won’t need any specific uniform.
What are the days and hours of the course?
Your timetable will be confirmed during Induction in September, but you can expect approximately 12 hours of teaching in the classroom each week
Will I undertake work placement as part of the course?
No, however you will have lots of opportunities to build employability skills, and your lecturers have worked in the industry, which means you will benefit from their experience.
Opportunities to visit UCM
Useful links
Induction for further education students
What are my progression and career options?
Subject to your grade you can progress to our University Centre courses, or with sufficient UCAS points you can progress to a wide range of university degree programmes off-Island.
The Access to HE Diploma can award between 48 and 144 UCAS points, depending on your final grade profile. This opens doors to nursing degree pathways and other health-related courses.
How will I be assessed?
The Access to HE Diploma is equivalent to three A Levels or a Level 3 Extended Diploma, and the academic expectations match those of other Level 3 qualifications.
Assessment methods may include:
• Essays
• Reports
• Coursework
• Projects
• Case studies
• Centre-set examinations (for certain units)
These varied approaches help you build a strong academic skillset ready for university.
Entry requirements
• GCSE English Language at Grade C or above (or equivalent)
• GCSE Maths at Grade C or above (or equivalent)
• You must be aged 18+
International applicants can find out further information here.
Please note, functional skills level 2 pass is equivalent to grade C.