Access to Higher Education Diploma - Healthcare Professions | Health Sciences University

Undergraduate  |  London

Access to Healthcare Professions

Access to Higher Education Diploma

Take your first step towards a degree in a healthcare discipline with this nationally recognised award.

Course Title Access to Higher Education Diploma – Healthcare Professions
Qualification Access to Higher Education Diploma
Study Mode Part-time
Typical Offer GCSEs at grades A-C, including Mathematics and English Language
Accreditation Laser Awards
Duration 1 year
Start Date September 2025
Location London

Overview


This course is designed specifically, but not exclusively, for students with little or no scientific background, and is ideal for those who wish to pursue a career in osteopathy or a related healthcare discipline, but aren’t yet ready to undertake a degree programme.

The course will help develop the knowledge and skills needed to continue on to further study in a healthcare discipline at undergraduate degree level. There is a strong emphasis on the biological and physical sciences, as well as an introduction to patient interaction and psychology. Students also gain a strong foundation in English, mathematics and study skills.

Course Details


The Access programme enables you to develop the knowledge and skills needed for successful study of osteopathy or a related healthcare discipline at undergraduate degree level.

Structured to allow learners to balance their studies with work or other commitments, classes run on Friday evenings and Saturdays across term time with a weekend clear of study every three to four weeks.

Students who successfully complete the course can apply for direct entry to HSU’s Master of Osteopathy course, delivered by the UCO School of Osteopathy – the leading provider of osteopathic education in the UK.

The award is validated by LASER Learning Awards and may also be used to apply for undergraduate study at other colleges and universities throughout the UK.

 

What You’ll Learn

There is a strong emphasis on the biological and physical sciences, as well as an introduction to sociology and psychology. Units on English, mathematics, communication and study skills ensure that you have a sound basis for further study.

List of units
  • Energy for Healthcare
  • Blood, circulation and gaseous exchange for healthcare
  • Cell Biology
  • Disease and body defence
  • Homeostasis for healthcare
  • Medical Biochemistry
  • Musculoskeletal system
  • Digestion and Liver for HC
  • Reproductive biology for healthcare
  • Nutrition for Health and Wellbeing
  • Understanding Human Health and Disease
  • Chemistry for Healthcare
  • Physics for Healthcare
  • Listening Skills in the Helping Professions
  • LEVEL 2 English Language Skills
  • Practical Mathematics for Healthcare
  • Academic Communication Skills
  • Reviewing and Planning for the Future
  • Independent Academic Study (Professional Studies)

For details of the specific tasks and assessments for each unit please contact us. You will also normally be provided with additional assessment briefs for coursework. These will indicate precisely what is required of you, how you will be graded and details of how and when the assessment is due to be submitted.

The Access to Higher Education Diploma is a nationally recognised award and is widely accepted by universities as an alternative to traditional qualifications.

On successful completion it provides automatic entry to HSU’s Master of Osteopathy degree, but also prepares students for further study in other healthcare related disciplines. Applicants are advised to check individual university entry requirements to ensure the Access to HE Diploma is suitable for their preferred progression route.

Entry Requirements

GCSEs at grades A-C, including Mathematics and English Language.

The UCO is committed to a policy of inclusion, actively seeking to widen participation and to increase opportunities for high-calibre students with the aptitude and potential to undertake a degree in osteopathy. Students from diverse ethnic and social backgrounds, UCO-leavers, mature ‘second career’ applicants and students with a range of seen and unseen disabilities are all warmly welcomed. Every application to the UCO is considered on its own merits.

International students

Unfortunately HSU is unable to sponsor student visas for this course.

Course Leader

Rachel Ives

Access Course Lead and Partnerships Quality Manager

Rachel is a registered Osteopath and has worked in osteopathic education for many years as a lecturer, clinic tutor and senior manager. She has also taught science in secondary schools.

Full bio

Still have questions about applying?

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Why choose Health Sciences University

There are many benefits to studying at Health Sciences University, from our expertise and history in teaching health sciences, to our state-of-the-art facilities, on-site clinical training, and our vibrant central London location.

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