Skip to main content

It looks like you have JavaScript turned off

Pretty much everything should work. But you may find some components look slightly off as a result. You can find out what JavaScript is here. If you don't have JavaScript turned off, or if something doesn't work that you think should do, please email hidden; JavaScript is required.

Access to Higher Education: Science (Life Sciences) (19+) including a four week introductory course — Full-time

Course outline

If you are aged 19+ and have an interest in biology and would like a career based on deepening our understanding of living organisms, then this could be the course for you.

There is a 4 week Introduction course (not Pre-Access) beginning week commencing 9th September 2024. This course must be completed in order to study the full Access course.

You’ll learn a range of skills and techniques through studying 14 units, including:

  • Scientific study skills
  • Mathematical techniques in science and data analysis
  • Advanced maths
  • Chemistry – inorganic, physical and organic
  • A range of biology units
    • Human cell biology
    • Biological communication systems
    • Genetics
    • Ecology and environment
    • A practical scientific project

You can expect to complete a unit of scientific study skills designed to support your skills in research techniques, report writing, presentation skills and writing laboratory reports. This will help you develop the skills needed to approach and complete the range of assessments on the course.

You’ll have support from a personal tutor who will guide you through your studies and support you in your university application.

How to apply for this course

Apply online to start in 2024/25.

Want to find out more first?

Get in touch by hitting the button below and filling out our enquiry form.

Download a guide Browse careers Get in touch
Location Date
City Hub
111 Canal Street
Nottingham
NG1 7HB

Start: Monday 9th September 2024

Course code: C000728 / Q002765

Qualification

CAVA Access to Higher Education Diploma: Science
Duration

1 year
Level Level 3
Entry requirements

You must be aged 19 or over to apply for this course.

You’ll need 5 GCSEs at grades 9–4 (A*–C) including English and Maths. Relevant work experience will be considered as a substitute for a relevant Level 2 vocational qualification, plus GCSE English and Maths.

It is not possible to study both GCSE English and Maths on this course.
Teaching & assessment

Learning is assessed in a variety of methods to prepare you to study at university. This may include an extended essay, timed assessments under controlled conditions and report writing.
Progression

Choose to follow with a degree-level qualification or a career in biology, biomedical or veterinary science, nutrition.
Additional information

You can apply for an Advanced Learner Loan to help with the costs of your Access to HE course. Loan eligibility does not depend on your income and there are no credit checks.

If you progress on to degree level study and complete a full degree, Student Finance England will ‘write off’ any outstanding Advanced Learner Loan balances you owe. This means you do not have to repay it.

Subject to eligibility you may be able to study this course for free, funded through the Adult Education Budget. Upon receipt of your application, we will assess your eligibility and advise you of your next steps.

Please note: Course funding information is accurate as of 22/02/2023 and is subject to change.

If you are an EU/EEA or Swiss National, please visit our EU Settled Status scheme page for more information.

Related courses