To join an Access course you will need to demonstrate that you have Level 2 English and maths skills. This includes either having achieved GCSE English and Maths at grade 4 or above or grades A-C, or Functional Skills Level 2. Please ask the college about the UK ENIC system if you are not familiar with this.
What can I do if I have only one level 2 qualification in either English or Maths?It may be possible in exceptional circumstances to achieve one GCSE qualification at NCC at the same time as your Access course, but you would need to attend evening classes and be tested for the course to make sure you are at the appropriate level.
It is also possible to take one Functional Skills qualification at an external provider at the same time as your Access course. If you choose this option, you will need to complete a college entry test in that subject to make sure you have the potential to achieve it within the academic year.
Access Courses are for students who are 21+ who wish to go to University but do not have a relevant Level 3 qualification. The Access to Higher Education Diploma in Science provides the underpinning knowledge and skills needed to progress to an undergraduate course in a science-related field.
As well as covering all aspects of science - physics, biology, chemistry and maths, there is a strong focus on developing the necessary skills for university.
Subjects covered are:You can fund an Access course by taking out an Advanced Learner Loan from the government. If you take out a loan for an Access course, then complete a university Degree course, you will not have to pay your Access loan back.
On completion of this course, you can continue to study at university for a Degree in:
Some of these degrees can lead onto Medical Degrees and Science or Maths teaching degrees.
