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Access to HE Diploma (Social Sciences) - Level 3

Overview

cava logoDo you have a fascination with why people do what they do? Are you looking to make a positive difference in the community? A career in social work, youth work, probation, social care, and more could be a perfect choice for you.

Access to HE Diploma (Social Sciences) is specifically designed for adults who have been out of formal education for some time, but want to enter university-level courses. The course is made up of various modules designed to prepare you for the demands of higher-level study. You will become a critical thinker, develop writing techniques and research skills.

You can prepare by reading around your subject via our booklist and purchase recommended items from our kit list. Please be aware that as an Access learner you might be eligible to receive a college laptop for you to use for the duration of your course.

Once you’ve finished your Access to HE course, you may choose to stay and study a higher education course at the NTU Mansfield Centre on our Derby Road campus, which is run by Nottingham Trent University.

Do you want to gain more confidence, knowledge and skills before joining one of our Access to HE courses? Then our First Steps into Access to HE course is just for you!

Start dates and fees

Start Dates

  • Various.

Cost

  • £3,022 (See 'Funding options')

If you are aged 19-23 (as of 31 August 2025) and studying your first Level 3 course then that course may be free. Please contact us for more details. If you are aged 19 or over and either studying a second Level 3 course or qualifying Level 4, 5 or 6 course you may be able to apply for an Advanced Learner Loan to cover the costs.

What will I study?

You will study a range of modules which include:

  • Study skills
  • Law (optional)
  • Psychology
  • Sociology.

FAQs

We have created a downloadable document that lists all our most frequently asked questions.

View Access to HE FAQs

  • Entry requirements

    This course is only available adults aged 19+ (as of 31 August 2025).

    • GCSE grade 4-9 (C or above) in English Language and maths.
    • You are strongly advised to complete a work placement before joining the course.

    Don’t have the required GCSEs? No problem!

    We’re here to help you get ready for your next step.

    You’ll take a short assessment to see what support you need. Then, we’ll guide you to the best option.

  • Assessment

    In order to prepare you for university, the assessments on this course will be varied. You will deliver professional presentations, write academic essays and reports, and sometimes sit an exam.

  • Progression

    This course offers you the potential to enter an extensive variety of professions (subject to your chosen degree and entry requirements), including social work, youth work, probation, social care, youth justice, psychologist, therapist, and more.

    As we are a partner college of Nottingham Trent University (NTU), after you complete this course you'll be able to attend a guaranteed interview for a Social Work degree course. For more information, call us on 0808 100 3626.

  • Careers
  • Qualifications gained
    • Access to HE Diploma (Social work)
    • CAVA
  • Funding options

    Don't let paying for this course hold you back from achieving your goals. There are different funding routes available for adult learners. Dependent on your personal circumstances, you may be eligible to:

    Did you know? If you successfully go on to complete a Higher Education qualification following an Access to HE course, you won’t have to pay your Advanced Learner Loan back at all.

    For more information please contact 0808 100 3626 or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

Disclaimer

Whilst every effort is made to ensure the information on the website is correct, some details may be subject to change. West Nottinghamshire College reserves the right to make amendments to the courses, dates, fees or other details, and to make cancellations or changes if numbers are insufficient. In the unfortunate situation that we have to cancel a course we will refund your fees in full, but we regret we are not able to offer any refund if you withdraw from your course or fail to start, and you will be liable to pay any outstanding fees that may be due.

Why choose us?

Excellent student support services

We’ve got a great student support network offering advice and guidance on careers and future employment, finance, health and welfare, additional learning support and much more.

Getting here couldn’t be easier!

Whether you travel by bus, train or on foot there are many different transport options available. You can also unleash your freedom with the West Notts College Travel Scheme which provides a flexible and great value bus travel service.

Campuses across Mansfield and Ashfield

We have eight campuses each boasting a number of state-of-the-art facilities.

Strong industry links

We’re always investing in college facilities to make sure you have access to the most up-to-date, industry-standard equipment. Our strong links with employers means you can secure work placements as part of your wider learning – providing you with vital industry experience and employability skills, getting you ready for the world of work.

Tutors who really know their industry

Most have worked in the industry they're teaching, so you'll learn the skills employers are looking for. They'll support and encourage you to achieve the best results possible.

LGBTQ+ celebration

We proudly celebrate LGBTQ+ diversity, including Pride. Our college is a supportive community that welcomes and embraces individuals of all sexual orientations and gender identities.

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