Access to HE Diploma (Education) for Adults
Course Code: Q274042
Key Information
Course type:
Access to Higher Education
Campus:
Online
Start Date:
Continuous
Duration:
Flexible
Attendance:
Part-time
Fees:
£3,384.00 or Free

If you do not possess the traditional qualifications, such as A Levels then the Access to HE diploma is an excellent alternative route to university. This diploma is accepted by most UK universities and helps prepare you for the demands of higher education. It has been specially constructed to suit the needs of potential students who have been out of education for some time.
We strongly recommend that you first select the degree course you would like to study, and make sure that the university you wish to attend is happy with your Access to HE Diploma (Education). Once you have checked that it meets their entrance criteria, you will know that this course is the right path for you.
Distance learning courses offer you freedom with your studies. First of all, you are not required to wait until September to get started. You can start straight away or begin studying at a time that suits you the most. Secondly, you are not required to attend classes, you can study from home, at a time that is convenient for you. This is perfect for those who have a particularly demanding work or family life.
Nothing can stop you pursuing a career in any number of areas once you have the undergraduate degree under your belt. Many students go on to gain Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) by studying towards an undergraduate degree or a PGCE, but that does not mean just because you study education that you need to be a teacher. There are plenty of alternative career paths which you can take after you graduate.
This programme is suitable for adult returners to learning or those with few or no traditional qualifications to help you prepare for higher education and university.
Want to study an education related subject at undergraduate level but not yet sure which area suits you best? Then this Access to HE Diploma (Education) with its General Pathway is the ideal course for you. It provides a great balance of educational practice alongside theory and childhood studies, making it the perfect programme for students who want to gain a valuable insight into the world of education.
If you're a UK resident aged 19 or over then you may have pay your own fees but you can apply for the government backed Advanced Learner Loan. This will be paid back in monthly instalments but the payments only begin once you've finished the Access to HE diploma and are earning over over a certain amount - please check here for up-to-date details.
You are required to have a GCSE in Maths and English at grade C/4 or above.
You will study this course fully online. You will be supported by an online tutor.
A range of units make up this qualification, with an assignment at the end of each. You will submit your work to your tutor for marking and tailored feedback. You must acquire 60 credits in total in order to achieve the Access to HE Diploma in Education. Of these credits, 45 will be taken from graded units which focus on academic content. The remaining 15 come from ungraded units included to help you advance your study skills.
As part of your programme you will also receive help as well as guidance on your university application and the research you need to do to get the most out of your diploma.
Your Access to Higher Education diploma and the way it is delivered within an innovative learning platform and is designed to give you the best possible chance of fulfilling your dream of studying at university. Higher education degrees confirm to any employer your intellect, motivation and ability to work independently to succeed not just in your area of specialism but also life itself. A higher education degree is a gateway qualification that will allow you to apply for thousands of graduate programmes as well as setting you apart from those who don't have a degree.
We work hard to keep our course information up to date. Occasionally we may make small changes to course content, start dates, locations or fees to keep our courses current and relevant. If anything important changes after you apply, we’ll always let you know.
Access to HE Diploma (Education) for Adults
We work hard to keep our course information up to date. Occasionally we may make small changes to course content, start dates, locations or fees to keep our courses current and relevant. If anything important changes after you apply, we’ll always let you know.
You may also be interested in
Related Features
NEWS 24-06-2026
Astute People see potential in visiting students
First-year marketing students from City of Portsmouth College got a glimpse into the industry with a day-in-the-life style visit to a local recruitment agency.
NEWS 17-06-2026
City of Portsmouth College Celebrates Creativity
Final year students of creative subjects at City of Portsmouth College had their chance to shine last week with a two-day showcase of their best work.
NEWS 16-06-2026
Self-defence classes launch thanks to tutor group’s passionate presentation
A tutor group project on community impact has resulted in City of Portsmouth College students learning all about self-defence from a local organisation.
NEWS 15-06-2026
City of Portsmouth College students are at the Pinnacle of their craft
In a powerful demonstration of what it means to be a woman, an all-female ensemble of City of Portsmouth College’s performing arts students showcased their own strengths, through the stories of others.
NEWS 10-06-2026
City of Portsmouth College sport stars join England legend for Monster Kickabout
Current and former students and City of Portsmouth College staff have been passing on their football skills to coach hundreds of school-age children as part of a national initiative.
NEWS 03-06-2026
Courtroom drama is no trial for COPC students
City of Portsmouth College’s A Level Law students have been putting their knowledge to the test in a real-life courtroom.

