Course Overview
The Access to HE Diploma (Humanities & Social Sciences) is designed for you if you want to progress to university but don’t currently have the required qualifications. The course supports you to develop essential academic skills alongside subject-specific knowledge, preparing you for the demands of higher education.
You’ll study through taught sessions supported by online learning materials available via the college’s virtual learning environment, Canvas. Learning is structured and supportive, helping you build confidence in academic reading, writing, research and critical thinking. Assessment is entirely coursework-based, allowing you to demonstrate your knowledge and progress without exams.
You can choose from two pathways: Social Work or History. Whichever pathway you choose, you’ll study core subjects including Sociology, Psychology and Academic Skills, alongside your chosen specialism.
The Social Work pathway supports progression into social work and related professions. You’ll explore the values, behaviours and skills required for professional practice, as well as the policy and social frameworks that shape the sector. This pathway also supports progression into degrees such as Education, Counselling and Psychology.
The History pathway allows you to study European, British and US history, developing strong research, analysis and critical thinking skills. This pathway prepares you for a wide range of university degrees, including History, English Literature, Politics and Archaeology.
Entry Requirements:
Maths and English at 4(C) or above
Course Highlights
Course Units
You’ll study core subjects including:
Sociology:
• Society, culture, and social identity
• Social inequality and stratification
• Family, education, and social institutions
• Contemporary social issues
Psychology:
• Core psychological perspectives
• Human behaviour and development
• Mental health and psychological wellbeing
• Social influence and behaviour
Humanities
• Culture, identity, and belief systems
• Ethics, morality, and social responsibility
• Historical and contemporary social themes
Alongside subject content, you will complete essential academic skills units, including:
• Academic writing and referencing
• Research and information literacy
• Presentation and communication skills
• Independent study and preparation for higher education
• UCAS guidance and progression planning
Course Breakdown
Course Structure
This course is delivered through taught classroom sessions supported by online learning materials. You can expect to be in college for around 12 hours per week, usually spread across 2–3 days, depending on your chosen pathway.
Learning includes lectures, seminars, group discussion, independent study and guided research activities.
Progression & Next Steps
On successful completion, you can progress to university degrees such as Social Work, History, Psychology, Education, Counselling, English Literature, Politics, Archaeology and other humanities or social science subjects.
This course provides a strong foundation for higher education and supports your progression into professional careers across social care, education, public services and related sectors.