Combined & Medical Science

If you are interested in taking the next steps towards a career in the life sciences or medical science professions such as optometry, biomedical science, or neuroscience the Access to HE Diploma Combined and Medical Sciences is the course for you!

An Access to HE Diploma is a qualification designed specifically for adults returning to education who would like to go on to study at university (Higher Education). There are a range of reasons that students may choose to study an Access to HE Diploma: they may lack formal qualifications needed for university entry, they may want to develop their knowledge and confidence after being out of education for a while, or they may be considering on a career change that requires a fresh start.

The Access to HE Diploma is equivalent to studying three A Levels and supports students in developing the academic knowledge and skills required to begin their journey in to Higher Education. It is important to note that an Access to HE Diploma is a challenging and intense course and students need to be highly motivated, dedicated and have a positive attitude to learning in order to succeed.

Whilst studying the Access to HE Diploma in Combined and Medical Sciences, you will complete units in the following modules:

· Biology

· Chemistry

· Physics

In addition to these subject specific modules, the course includes developmental units to support you in developing your academic skills in preparation for university.

When applying to university, we will support you with completing your UCAS application, personal statement and we will provide you with an academic reference. It is important to note that successfully completing your Access to HE Diploma does not guarantee you a place at university. While most universities accept Access to Higher Education Diplomas, it is your own responsibility to check that your UCAS application meets the current entry requirements for your university course choices.

For entry on to the Access to HE Diploma (Combined Medical Science) you need to have achieved and have official evidence (e.g. certificates) of:
• GCSE English and maths at grade 4/C or above (we will also accept IELTS at 6.5 or above with no aspect under 6.0 in place of GCSE English)
You will also complete an initial assessment and an informal interview as part of the application process. If we feel that you are not quite ready for the Access to HE Diploma we may offer you a place on our Pre-Access course (Level 2) which will help you to prepare for level 3 study whilst studying English and maths qualifications alongside.
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A range of assessment methods will be used to assess your progress throughout the academic year. These include: essays, reports, short answer questions and presentations. All assessments are designed to support you in preparing for study at university.

When you have completed this Access to Higher Education Diploma, you'll have the qualifications and the knowledge needed to enrol on a university-level course in Environmental Studies and Sciences, or progress into employment in the discipline that most interests you.
Choose to pogress on to degree-level study with our higher education partner, UCEN Manchester. Students progressing from The Manchester College will receive a cash award through the Achievers Scholarship.

Click Here to explore courses and apply.

Whichever path you choose, you'll find a number of career opportunities in the Science, Medical and Environmental Sciences Sectors. You could become a pharmacist, dental hygiene therapist, or scientist and work for the NHS or for a private company, at home in the UK or abroad.

Depending on your circumstances, you may need to pay tuition fees for this Access to Higher Education Diploma. There are a number of different funding and finance options that may be able to help you, with dedicated support from the government, bursaries and grants, and loans to cover any tuition fees. Have a look at our fees, finance & funding page to find out all the information you need.

Do you have a burning question about this course, or would you like to know more about the qualification you'll receive and how it will help your career?
Our course enquiries team is on hand to help you understand any details and answer any questions – whether it's about applying for the course or finding out about finance. Just get in touch here!