Whether you want to be a nurse, a midwife or a health visitor, this programme will give you the skills and knowledge you need to take your first steps.


  • Description

    The Access to Higher Diploma is a nationally recognised Level 3 qualification designed to prepare adults to study higher education. Each diploma is designed to help students who have been out of education for some time achieve the qualifications they need to attend University.

    The aim of the Access to HE programme is not just to instil an understanding of the sector but also to introduce you to the world of academia. Emphasis is placed on reading, researching, note taking, and writing for academia, particularly using appropriate resources and referencing using the Harvard referencing system.

    All courses run one day a week at University Centre Newbury. They are modular and delivered through a combination of taught sessions, lectures, research and independent study. With small class sizes and plenty of opportunities for one-to-one support, you can be sure you'll get the best possible start to your new career or higher education study.

    Nursing and midwifery are both highly rewarding careers where you can make a real difference in the lives of others. As a nurse or midwife, you will provide care and support to patients during some of the most important times in their lives.

    You will also have the chance to network with other professionals in the field, and learn from their experience.

    You will study 15 units delivered under three core subject areas:

    • Biology
    • Social Issues in Healthcare
    • Psychology
    • Study Skills

    The course is intensive, but it's also very rewarding. You'll make great progress in a short space of time and you'll be supported every step of the way by our experienced and qualified tutors.

  • Entry Requirements

    Students must be 19+ and have GCSE Maths and English at grade 4/C and above. To participate in this programme you will need a suitable computer and/or device with sufficient internet access. Specific requirements and information on the support available to borrow or purchase equipment can be discussed at interview.

    Previous experience and skills in the Health Care sector is desirable.

  • Qualification

    Ascentis Access to HE Diploma (Nursing and Midwifery)

  • Progression

    Once you have completed an Access to HE Diploma (Nursing and Midwifery), you will have a variety of progression options available to you. Most people progress to a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSc) or a Bachelor of Nursing (BN) degree programme at university.

    A registered nurse degree apprenticeship (RNDA) offers a flexible route to becoming a nurse that doesn't require full-time study at university. You will need to secure a position as an RNDA and your employer will release you to study at university part time.

    The first step to becoming a midwife is to take a degree level programme approved by the Nursing & Midwifery Council (NMC). This may be a full-time undergraduate or postgraduate degree or midwifery degree apprenticeship.

    Some students may choose to enter the workforce and become a nursing apprentice, where they will work under the supervision of a qualified nurse while completing their training or start working in healthcare industries in different capacities such as care home assistants, nursing aids etc.

  • Assessment

    You will be assessed through a combination of assignments and controlled assessments set by the awarding body, Ascentis. All units are marked against the assessment criteria for the units and then awarded a pass, merit or distinction. Assignments are set on our online learning environment and will have an agreed submission date.

  • Home Study

    You will be expected to complete a minimum of seven hours per week self study and additional reading/assignment work.

  • Work Placement

    Preferably you will be employed in the health care sector, although this is not a prerequisite in itself.

  • Fees and Additional Costs

    The tuition fees for this programme are £ 3,384.00. Funding for the programme fee can be obtained through the Advanced Learner Loan. You will need to have been a permanent resident in the United Kingdom to qualify for this loan. An additional payment of £15.00 is required for the College subscription fund.

Code Start Fees*
ACCESSL3NM 242501 September 2024 Fee Information

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* Terms and conditions apply. The fees stated on this website are for guidance purposes only and should be checked before enrolment. Unless otherwise stated, fees shown are for tuition only, over one academic year. Where a course is longer than one academic year, the fees stated are for the first year, and the cost of the second or subsequent years will be discussed at interview. For details of fee remission for students over 19 click here. If you think you may be entitled to a concession or fee remission, or you would like more information on the additional costs associated with your chosen course, please contact us on 01635 845000 or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..