Overview
Do you like to help and take care of people? Then our course is right for you. From school nurse to brain surgeon, your options are almost endless. By successfully completing our higher education course in Health Professions, you will gain access to degree-level education where you could train at university.
Take away the hassle of choosing multiple A-level courses by consolidating all your requirements under one umbrella course. Also, depending on the final grade achieved, learners can earn up to 144 UCAS points upon completion of this course.
Every Access to Higher Education Diploma includes units covering key skills that learners will find most useful when they continue into higher education. These units are designed to prepare students and equip them with the knowledge needed for studying at a degree level. What's more, we're here to help you every step of the way!
Important dates:
Register to start studying on 18th September 2023 between 1st and 30th September.
Register to start studying on 1st March 2024 between 1st and 29th February 2024.
Register to start studying on October 1st 2024 between 1st and 30th September 2024.
What you'll learn
As part of this unit, you will gain an understanding of academic essay writing. Including essay planning, structure and sourcing information. You’ll also look at the importance of academic referencing.
Research is a fundamental skill in higher education and in this unit we explore the different approaches to academic research and how you can use it in your work to add depth and evidence to points you make. We also look at how to properly credit original authors and use Harvard referencing to show where important information ahs come from.
In this unit we look at the UCAS system used to apply for higher education, and we learn how to make the most of the application process and the importance of career planning and realistic expectations.
Presentations form a key life skill and important academic tool. In this unit we’ll develop and understanding of the importance of planning, organisation, preparation and delivery of presentations. Learning useful strategies along the way.
In this unit you’ll gain all the knowledge you need to know, to be able to use a computer for your studying needs. This includes producing documents, sharing information, using the world wide web and using applications.
During this unit you will take a look at the biological and social constructs of health. You’ll explore the reasons for differences in the patterns of illness in modern Britain and the factors that affect access to healthcare.
Here you will explore the reasons why children and adolescents mental ill-health and poor wellbeing. You will understand the range of therapeutic interventions available and their effectiveness. Lastly you will develop and understanding of historical and current mental health services.
In this intriguing unit you will explore the theories of moral philosophy and understand the importance of a moral framework. Which is used for decision making in medical practice. Lastly you will look at the ways ethical considerations impinge on patient/client rights and responsibilities.
On the back of the previous unit you’ll learn about the origins and development of the National Health Service (NHS)
Jumping right in, you’ll begin to explore socialisation theory and role theory, looking at their application to relationships between parents and health workers. Also looking at the importance of family and other support networks on the role of the professional carer.
In this unit you will understand how infectious diseases are caused by pathogens. Also exploring the specific and non-specific defences of the body against infectious diseases.
During this unit you will gain an understanding of the structure and function of both the endocrine and nervous systems. You will also learn the functions of receptors and sensory organs. Lastly taking a look in to the nature of the nerve impulse and the role of the synapse.
We’re all different and the same goes for our digestive needs. You’ll explore how these needs vary for different individuals and the importance of a balanced diet for good health. You will also gain an understanding of how the digestive system is related to its function. Lastly developing an understanding of the need for digestion and know the role of enzymes in the process.
For this unit you will explore the human cardiovascular system and the control of the cardiac cycle.
After looking at the cardiovascular system in the previous unit, you’ll now begin to explore the structure and function of the human respiratory system. Also looking into the mechanism and control of gaseous exchange.
As the title says, for this one you will be able to understand the concepts of normality and abnormality in relation to mental health. You will also take a look at models that seek to explain atypical behaviour of how this may inform the basis of treatment or therapies.
Within this unit you will gain an overall understanding of Psychology as a discipline. Looking at a range of psychological perspectives to the study of human behaviour.
During this unit you will explore how an individuals behaviour is influenced by others. Looking at the nature of social interaction. Also gaining an understanding of the models used to explain independent behaviour.
For this unit you will explore the sociological/economic factors that impact those experiencing mental health illness. You will also gain an understanding of how inequality and social exclusions impact those with mental health illness. Towards the end of the unit you will take a look at the legislation and treatment around supporting those with mental health illness.
Within this unit you will gain an understanding of the causes and consequences of stress. Exploring the nervous systems and endocrine systems are involved in the control of behaviour.
Extra info
Awarding Body
The Access to Higher Education Diploma in Health Professions is awarded by Open Awards. Qualification code: AIM 40009592

Open Awards is a UK-based Awarding Body. Open Awards provide Ofqual regulated qualifications and units across multiple subject areas, such as Access to HE courses.
Endorsed by
Course Outcome
The Access to Higher Health Professions Diploma is a widely accepted qualification at level 3 that provides an alternative pathway into higher education.
At the same level as A-levels, these courses carry UCAS points which can be used to gain entry to your chosen university. The number of UCAS points awarded is dependent on the learner's outcome of the course i.e. pass, merit or distinction. Calculate your points based on your grade with this UCAS Tariff Calculator.
Potential job opportunities you could aim for include:
- Home Health Aide
- Dentist
- Physical Therapist
- Midwife
Important:
If you wish to follow your completion of this course with a University degree, we advise that you first check the entry requirements of that specific degree course with the University that you wish to attend as each institution can be different.
For example, many degree-level courses ask that students have completed specific GCSEs with specific grades. This is typically a minimum grade of C or 4 in English and Maths. If you don’t hold these qualifications yet, they are required for your University applications, we can work with you to achieve those alongside the Access to Higher Education Diploma. Please mention this important information to a learning adviser when enrolling.
How is this course assessed or examined?
During your studies and at the end of each unit, you will be asked to complete a variety of different styles of assignments. Assessed and graded by your assessor, these assignments test your knowledge of each module, whilst allowing you to develop a wide range of skills that are vital to higher education.
Entry requirements
There is a minimum study age of 19 years old. Access to Higher Education Diplomas are open to anyone aged 19 or over, to be used as an entry into higher education. These courses are widely recognised by universities in the UK as an alternative to 'traditional' qualifications for entry into undergraduate courses.
We also advise students to check the entry requirements of the next course they wish to take to ensure they meet the criteria. If there are some qualifications you do not have yet, we may be able to help you achieve them at the same time as your Access to Higher Education course.