Want to further your education but don't quite meet the entry requirements for your desired course?
Don't worry – an access course may be your perfect solution!
Access courses provide individuals with the necessary knowledge and skills to succeed in higher education.
This blog post will investigate what kind of qualification an access course is and how it can help you achieve your academic goals.
So, let's get started!
What is an access course in the UK?
In a nutshell, access courses are ideal for adults who want to study at a higher level but don't have the traditional qualifications. They allow adults to improve their academic skills and gain nationally recognized qualifications.
What kind of qualification is an access course?
An access course is a Level 3 qualification for adults who do not have traditional qualifications such as A Levels or GCSEs. The course is usually taken by adults who have been out of the education system for a few years and have not studied further.
The course provides adults the academic skills and qualifications to progress onto higher education courses such as university degrees or higher apprenticeships.
Universities across the UK recognise this qualification.
What can I do with an access course?
An access course can open a range of opportunities for adults.
- It can be used to gain entry to university and other higher education courses, such as nursing degrees.
- It can also be used to gain entry to apprenticeships, vocational courses, and other training schemes.
- The qualification can also be used to show the academic ability to potential employers. It can help adults stand out from the crowd and make them more attractive to employers.
- An access course can also help adults develop their communication, problem-solving, analytical and research skills.
- It can give them a better understanding of the world and help them gain the confidence to pursue new opportunities.
What requirements are needed to apply for an access course?
Usually, applicants must meet certain criteria to apply for an access course to Higher Education Course.
It's important to check with the institution where you want to study, as they all have different requirements. The best place to look is in their frequently asked questions (FAQs) sections.
But some general guidelines include:
- Applicants must be over 19 and may not already hold a level 3 qualification.
- Some courses may also require applicants to have completed a certain number of GCSEs or equal qualifications.
- Depending on the course, applicants may have to provide evidence of work experience or to have completed certain courses.
- Applicants may have to provide a personal statement and pass an interview. This ensures applicants have the necessary skills and motivation to succeed in the course.
- Applicants may have to provide a reference or a portfolio of work. This demonstrates their commitment to the course and shows they can complete the required work.
Can I find a job with access courses only?
Yes, you can. Let's use an access course to nursing as an example.
While the qualification is often used to gain entry to higher education courses such as nursing degrees, it can also be used to prove the academic ability to potential employers.
The qualification can help adults stand out and make them more attractive to employers. Employers may consider applicants with an access course, as it shows they have the necessary skills and motivation to pursue a career in nursing.
Are access courses equivalent to A Level?
No, an access to higher education courses is not equal to A Level. An access course is a Level 3 qualification that is designed for adults who do not have traditional qualifications such as A Levels or GCSEs.
Access to higher education diplomas are equivalent to 3 A Levels!
While access courses are not equal to A Level, they provide adults with the skills and qualifications to progress onto higher education courses such as university degrees or higher apprenticeships.
Is an access course a foundation degree?
No, it's not.
An access course gives adults the possibility to progress onto higher education courses.
A foundation degree is a two-year higher education qualification equal to the first two years of an undergraduate degree. It gives students the necessary skills and knowledge to progress to a full honours degree.
Where to study?
Access Course Online is an innovative online platform offering adults the opportunity to gain the qualifications and skills necessary to progress onto higher education courses.
It is part of Cambridge Online Education and offers structured courses, interactive content and activities, and a personalized learning environment.
Access Course Online is an excellent choice for adults seeking higher education qualifications.
- No GCSEs or A Levels are required.
- No lessons to attend or exams!
- Complete assignments in your own time.
- Friendly, expert personal tutor support.