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Access to HE Diploma (Medicine)

Level 1 Diploma

Course Location

College

Trafford College

Location

Altrincham Campus

Further Details

Age

University level

Department

Access to Higher Education

Course Start Date

Monday 7th September 2026

Course Duration

Full-time, 1 Year

Course Time

Course Fee

£ 3022.00
You may be eligible for support with your tuition fees - please visit the college website - funding and finance page for further information

Course Code

AFP-AH3D-1300

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Course Overview

The Access to HE Diploma (Medicine) is designed for adult students who want to progress to university to study Medicine, Dentistry or other healthcare-related degrees but do not currently hold traditional A Level qualifications.

This intensive one-year programme provides the scientific knowledge, academic study skills and university preparation required to progress to highly competitive healthcare degrees. Students will study a combination of biology, chemistry and health-related topics alongside research and academic writing skills.

The course is ideal for students aiming to pursue careers in Medicine, Dentistry, Pharmacy, Biomedical Science, Nursing or other Allied Health professions.

Course Requirements

Applicants wishing to progress to Medicine or Dentistry will normally require:

GCSE Grade 6 in Maths
GCSE Grade 6 in English Language
GCSE Grade 66 in Combined Science (or equivalent separate Science)

Applicants wishing to progress to Allied Health or other science-related professions will normally require:

GCSE Grade 4 in Maths
GCSE Grade 4 in English
GCSE Grade 44 in Combined Science (or equivalent separate Science)

What you will Learn

During the course you will develop:

– Core scientific knowledge in biology and chemistry relevant to healthcare professions
– Understanding of human physiology and disease
– Research, analytical and critical thinking skills
– Academic writing and referencing skills required for university study
– Independent learning and time management skills
– Preparation for UCAS applications and university interviews

You will also develop the study skills required to succeed at degree level.

Students aspiring to competitive courses such as Medicine and Dentistry will also receive targeted preparation for the medical school application process, including support with UCAS applications, personal statements and interview preparation.

The programme aims to develop the academic resilience, scientific knowledge and professional behaviours expected by universities offering highly selective healthcare degrees.

Assessment

Assessment will include a mixture of coursework and exam-style assessment to ensure academic rigour and prepare students for higher education study.

Methods may include:

– Written assignments and academic reports
– Essays and research projects
– Scientific investigations and laboratory work
– Presentations and case study analysis
– Timed assessments and exam-style tests

This balanced approach ensures students develop both independent research skills and the ability to apply knowledge under exam conditions, supporting progression to demanding university courses such as Medicine and other healthcare degrees.

Progression

Successful completion of the course can lead to degree programmes such as:

– Medicine
– Dentistry
– Pharmacy
– Biomedical Science
– Nursing
– Radiography
– Paramedic Science
– Other Allied Health professions

Career Options

This course can lead to careers including:
– Doctor
– Dentist
– Pharmacist
– Biomedical Scientist
– Nurse
– Radiographer
– Paramedic
– Other healthcare professionals

Mandatory Units

The programme will include units in areas such as:

– Human Biology
– Biochemistry for Health Sciences
– Human Physiology
– Disease and Immunology
– Chemistry for Healthcare
– Research Skills for Higher Education
– Academic Writing and Study Skills

The programme will follow the Access to HE Diploma structure of 60 credits, with units selected to support progression to healthcare-related degrees.

Contact Details

For further information please contact T: 0161 886 7070 or E: info@trafford.ac.uk

Extra Costs Involved

Exam Validation Body

Hours Per Week

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Programme Structure

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Disclaimer

Although every care has been taken to ensure that the information contained within this document is accurate, there may be changes to this programme and provision. We will endeavour to keep prospective and current students updated where appropriate and when the information becomes available.

READY TO begin your journey?