Level 3 Access to Higher Education (Nursing and Midwifery)

Level 3 Access to Higher Education (Nursing and Midwifery)

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Access to HE Diploma in Nursing & Midwifery

Are you ready to embark on an incredible journey toward a meaningful career in nursing or midwifery? This dynamic one‑year, full‑time, adult course in Level 3 Access to HE Diploma is equivalent to three A‑Levels and has been carefully crafted to offer you a powerful launchpad into university life and beyond.

What You’ll Explore

Dive deep into the fascinating human body and mind with a comprehensive set of units:

  • Homeostasis & Endocrine System, Human Cell Biology, Nutrition and Digestion, Respiration & Circulation, Muscular & Skeletal System, Nervous System, Urinary System
  • Psychology modules including Behaviourism, Cognitive Development, Memory, Mental Health & Illness
  • Essential professional units like Equality & Diversity in Healthcare, Ethical Issues in Contemporary Health Care, Numeracy in Health Contexts, Academic Study Techniques, and Professional Behaviours in Nursing

Your Learning Experience

You’ll attend college two full days per week, with a strong expectation of additional independent study outside the classroom. To succeed on this fast-paced and rewarding programme, 100% attendance is expected!  This reflects the professional standards of the healthcare sector and ensures you stay on track for success.

You’ll be assessed through a variety of engaging methods, including: essays and scientific reports, group work and presentations, case studies and research projects, exams and timed assessments.  This range of assessments not only prepares you for university-style learning but also mirrors the kind of skills healthcare professionals use every day.

Exceptional Support Every Step of the Way

From the very first day, our expert teachers, specialists in biology, psychology, and more! are by your side, offering:

  • Dedicated one‑to‑one tutorials and small-group sessions
  • Continuous feedback on assignments, quizzes, and oral presentations
  • Academic mentorship including UCAS support, personal statement guidance, and interview prep
  • Support from our dedicated Learning Resource staff in the Learning Hub to help you develop effective study and referencing skills

Your Future, Full of Possibilities

Successful completion opens doors to competitive degree courses in:

  • Adult or Child Nursing
  • Mental Health Nursing
  • Midwifery
  • Allied health professions like Occupational Therapy, Physiotherapy, Speech Therapy and even apprenticeships

Many of our graduates go straight into NHS degree programmes or higher apprenticeships, with some earning scholarships or getting roles before graduation.

Why Study With Us?

  • Fully recognised Access to HE qualification—accepted by the UK’s universities as equivalent to three A‑Levels. All of our Access to Higher Education courses are approved by the Quality Assurance Agency (QAA)
  • Supportive, adult‑focused learning environment with flexible modes and experienced staff
    Clear progression into healthcare education, with exceptional enrichment and academic development
  • Fully equipped facilities supporting your learning including labs and study resources.

Ready to Begin?

Join us this September and unlock your potential. Whether you’re returning to education, changing careers, or reigniting your ambitions, our Access to Higher Education Diploma is your stepping stone to an impactful healthcare career.

Apply now and take the first step on a journey that can change the lives of others, and your own, for years to come.

Access to HE Diploma in Nursing & Midwifery

Are you ready to embark on an incredible journey toward a meaningful career in nursing or midwifery? This dynamic one‑year, full‑time, adult course in Level 3 Access to HE Diploma is equivalent to three A‑Levels and has been carefully crafted to offer you a powerful launchpad into university life and beyond.

What You’ll Explore

Dive deep into the fascinating human body and mind with a comprehensive set of units:

  • Homeostasis & Endocrine System, Human Cell Biology, Nutrition and Digestion, Respiration & Circulation, Muscular & Skeletal System, Nervous System, Urinary System
  • Psychology modules including Behaviourism, Cognitive Development, Memory, Mental Health & Illness
  • Essential professional units like Equality & Diversity in Healthcare, Ethical Issues in Contemporary Health Care, Numeracy in Health Contexts, Academic Study Techniques, and Professional Behaviours in Nursing

Your Learning Experience

You’ll attend college two full days per week, with a strong expectation of additional independent study outside the classroom. To succeed on this fast-paced and rewarding programme, 100% attendance is expected!  This reflects the professional standards of the healthcare sector and ensures you stay on track for success.

You’ll be assessed through a variety of engaging methods, including: essays and scientific reports, group work and presentations, case studies and research projects, exams and timed assessments.  This range of assessments not only prepares you for university-style learning but also mirrors the kind of skills healthcare professionals use every day.

Exceptional Support Every Step of the Way

From the very first day, our expert teachers, specialists in biology, psychology, and more! are by your side, offering:

  • Dedicated one‑to‑one tutorials and small-group sessions
  • Continuous feedback on assignments, quizzes, and oral presentations
  • Academic mentorship including UCAS support, personal statement guidance, and interview prep
  • Support from our dedicated Learning Resource staff in the Learning Hub to help you develop effective study and referencing skills

Your Future, Full of Possibilities

Successful completion opens doors to competitive degree courses in:

  • Adult or Child Nursing
  • Mental Health Nursing
  • Midwifery
  • Allied health professions like Occupational Therapy, Physiotherapy, Speech Therapy and even apprenticeships

Many of our graduates go straight into NHS degree programmes or higher apprenticeships, with some earning scholarships or getting roles before graduation.

Why Study With Us?

  • Fully recognised Access to HE qualification—accepted by the UK’s universities as equivalent to three A‑Levels. All of our Access to Higher Education courses are approved by the Quality Assurance Agency (QAA)
  • Supportive, adult‑focused learning environment with flexible modes and experienced staff
    Clear progression into healthcare education, with exceptional enrichment and academic development
  • Fully equipped facilities supporting your learning including labs and study resources.

Ready to Begin?

Join us this September and unlock your potential. Whether you’re returning to education, changing careers, or reigniting your ambitions, our Access to Higher Education Diploma is your stepping stone to an impactful healthcare career.

Apply now and take the first step on a journey that can change the lives of others, and your own, for years to come.

As the Access course involves a good deal of academic writing, it is required that you have a good level of English before you begin. You will attend a formal interview with a member of the teaching team and carry out a written assessment during the process.

You will also need to hold:

- English GCSE grade 4 (C) or Functional Skills Level 2
- Maths GCSE grade 4 (C) or Functional Skills Level 2

If you have international qualifications, you will need to ensure that these meet the UK equivalence and that your intended university of study will accept them.

This course is free If you live in the West Midlands Combined Authority area. To be eligible for this funding you must:

  • Be 19+ years old
  • Live in the West Midlands
  • Be on a low wage below £32,000 or unemployed.

For 19-23-year olds the course is free if you have not achieved a full Level 3 qualification.

If you do not meet the above criteria, the course fees are £3384, 19+ learners may be able to apply for an Advanced Learner Loan to cover the cost of the course (and are advised to apply as soon as they are accepted on the course).

More information on Access to Higher Education fees and funding (PDF)

The decisions on applications for HE candidates are made by curriculum staff after interview, audition or portfolio review have taken place.

Course Summary

Length of study:
1 year

Starting:
September

Study campus:
City

Study option(s):
Full time

Course level:
Level 3

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Need careers advice?

We can help you get the advice and guidance you need. From choosing the right programme, developing your CV, further study options and career planning.

Fees and funding

If you are aged 16-18 and applying for a full-time programme, then you will not have to pay for your course. If you are aged 19+ then there may be a fee for your course.

Why Coventry

From entry-level qualifications, through to degree-level and specialist professional courses there’s something here for students with little or no formal education right up to career high-flyers. Expect a vibrant environment where you can meet people from different backgrounds and cultures.

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Programme Ref: COV_ACHE_29111 Last updated: September 24, 2025 2:04 pm

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