Search

About Access to Higher Education

What Is an Access to Higher Education Course? 

The Access to Healthcare Professions course is a one-year course for students aged 19 and over who do not hold the standard qualifications required for entry into higher education.
 

At North Kent Colleges Group, our Access to Nursing and Healthcare Professions course prepares you for progression into higher education and careers within the healthcare sector.

The course comprises Level 3 units (A Level equivalent) in Health Studies, Psychology and Biology.

Students who do not already hold GCSE English Language and/or Maths at Grade 4 (C) or above may have the opportunity to study these qualifications alongside their Access to HE courses at no additional cost, subject to availability, timetabling and eligibility. This provision cannot be guaranteed, and alternative local adult education options can be discussed where appropriate (available at NKC Dartford College only).

As many healthcare-related degree courses require relevant work experience, so we encourage students to undertake paid or voluntary work experience in a care setting alongside their studies.
 

Apply in September and you could be ready to start university the following academic year.

 

QAA Access logo colour

 

Frequently asked questions

  • What qualification will I gain?

    On successful completion, you'll achieve an Access to Higher Education Diploma, a nationally recognised Level 3 qualification accepted by universities across the UK.

    Depending on your existing qualifications, you may also have the opportunity to achieve GCSE English and/or GCSE Maths alongside your course.

  • Where Can an Access to Higher Education Diploma Lead?

    An Access to Higher Education Diploma opens the door to university study and can help you progress into a wide range of careers.

    Many students continue onto undergraduate degrees at North Kent Colleges Group or universities across the UK.

    If you're planning a career in healthcare, nursing or a related profession, an Access course provides an excellent foundation before starting a degree.

    Explore our Higher Education courses to continue your learning journey.

  • How Much Does an Access to Higher Education Course Cost?

    Course Fees

    If you're aged 19 to 23 and already have a full Level 3 qualification, or you're aged 24 or over, the fees are a £3,300 tuition fee and a £185 registration fee.

  • What Financial Support is available?

    Fee Funding for Students

    Government funding is available for students aged 19 to 23 (as of 31 August) who do not already hold a full Level 3 qualification*. If you're eligible, you won't pay any tuition or registration fees.

    Advanced Learner Loans

    Advanced Learner Loans are available for all of our Access to Higher Education courses.

    The loan covers your tuition fees (but not the registration fee), and you only begin repaying it once your income reaches the Government repayment threshold.

    Even better, if you successfully complete your Access course and progress directly to a university degree, your Advanced Learner Loan is written off.

    Students who receive an Advanced Learner Loan and have a household income below £21,000 may be eligible for additional financial support through the College bursary scheme.

    Support may include:

    • Registration fee assistance 
    • Help with books and equipment 
    • Travel costs (if you live more than two miles from college) 
    • Childcare support for one child 

    Students under the age of 20 may also be eligible for the Government's Care to Learn childcare scheme.

    To find out more about student financial support, visit our Student Financial Support Page

  • What Are the Entry Requirements for the Access to Higher Education Course?

    There are no formal academic entry requirements for our Access to Higher Education courses.

    All applicants will:

    • Attend an interview 
    • Complete an English assessment 
    • Complete a maths assessment 

    These assessments help us ensure you receive the support needed to succeed.