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Level 3 Access to HE Diploma (Health Professions)

Level 1 Diploma

Course Location

College

Trafford College

Location

Stretford Campus

Further Details

Age

University level

Department

Access to Higher Education

Course Start Date

Monday 14th September 2026

Course Duration

Full-time, 1 Year

Course Time

09:15:00 - 15:00:00

Course Fee

£ 3444.00
You may be eligible for support with your tuition fees - please visit the college website - funding and finance page for further information

Course Code

TFP-AH3D-1400

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Course Overview

The Access to HE Diploma (Health Professions) is designed for adults who are looking to begin a rewarding career in healthcare, including Nursing, Midwifery, Physiotherapy, Paramedic Science and other allied health professions.

This nationally recognised, QAA-compliant qualification provides an alternative route to university for those who may not have traditional Level 3 qualifications. The course is specifically designed to prepare mature learners for the academic demands of higher education and a future career in healthcare.

The diploma consists of 60 credits, including 45 graded credits and 15 ungraded credits, and is studied over one academic year. You will attend college for approximately 13 hours each week (12 hours of teaching plus a 1-hour tutorial) across three days. In addition, you should expect to undertake around 12 hours of independent study each week to complete assignments and prepare for lessons.

Typical teaching hours are 9.20am-3.00pm (subject to confirmation).

Course Requirements

Applicants should normally have:

– GCSE English Language at Grade 4 (C) or above
– GCSE Mathematics at Grade 4 (C) or above

Some university degree programmes may also require GCSE Science at Grade 4 (C) or above.

In some circumstances, Functional Skills Level 2 Mathematics may be accepted instead of GCSE Mathematics.

Applicants who do not yet meet the entry requirements may be able to study our Pre-Access to HE programme, alongside GCSE English and/or Mathematics, before progressing onto the Access to HE Diploma.

What you will Learn

You will study a broad range of subjects that provide the scientific knowledge, academic skills and professional understanding required for progression into healthcare degrees.
The course includes advanced study in:

– Human Biology
– Health Studies
– Psychology
– Human Anatomy and Physiology
– Ethics in Healthcare
– Human Reproduction and Genetics
– Human Cardiovascular System
– Healthcare in Modern Britain

Alongside subject knowledge, you will develop essential academic skills including research, academic writing, referencing, critical analysis, presentation skills and independent learning, helping you to succeed at university.

Assessment

Assessment is varied to reflect the types of work you will complete at university and in professional practice.

Assessment methods include:

– Essays
– Case studies
– Practical reports
– Open and closed-book examinations
– Individual and group presentations
– Time-constrained assessments

Every module includes an element of time-constrained assessment which contributes towards your overall grade.

Successful students will achieve the Open Awards Access to HE Diploma (Health Professions), recognised by universities across the UK

Progression

The Access to HE Diploma (Health Professions) provides an excellent pathway into higher education.

Many of our students progress to university degrees in:

– Adult Nursing
– Children’s Nursing
– Mental Health Nursing
– Midwifery
– Physiotherapy
– Paramedic Science
– Occupational Therapy
– Radiography
– Operating Department Practice
– Dental Hygiene
– Other Allied Health Professions

The qualification is recognised by universities throughout the UK as an alternative to A Levels for mature learners.

Career Options

Completing this course can lead to careers such as:

– Registered Nurse
– Midwife
– Physiotherapist
– Paramedic
– Operating Department Practitioner
– Occupational Therapist
– Radiographer
– Dental Hygienist
– Other Allied Health Professionals

Many graduates also continue their studies through postgraduate qualifications and specialist healthcare training.

Mandatory Units

All students complete the following mandatory units:

– Professional Behaviours for Healthcare Professionals
– Numeracy for Healthcare Professionals

These units develop the professional values, communication skills and numeracy expected within healthcare professions and higher education

Contact Details

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

Extra Costs Involved

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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.

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