Our Access to Higher Education (HE) Diploma courses aim to prepare you for entry into higher education and provide the underpinning knowledge and skills required to progress on to a degree or higher-level course at a university or college.
If you are wishing to return to learning after a break, trying to change your career path, or have few formal qualifications but wish to progress to higher education, an Access to HE course could be a perfect fit for you.
Our Access to HE Diplomas cover a range of subject areas from Art & Design to Health Science Professions, Humanities & Social Science, Education and more. These courses are all studied for around 14 hours a week (3 days per week), over 32 weeks and involve a range of activities relevant to the subject being studied. The Access to Higher Education Diploma is validated and accredited through the National Awarding Body Certa, which is an Access validating agency, licensed and regulated by the Quality Assurance Agency for Higher Education.
Being a student at York College provides you with access to our Learning & Research Centre
and facilities including workshops, art studios, Mac suites, science labs and other services designed to enable you to achieve the best from your qualification. You can also register for a Totum Student card (formerly NUS), which will enable you to access discounts from a wide range of outlets.
You can take out an Advanced Learner Loan to cover the cost of your Access to HE Diploma, which will then be automatically written off when you successfully complete a degree programme which is eligible for student finance. Please note, to study an Access course, you must be aged 19 or above by the 31st August the year your course starts.
We hope you find all the information you require in this booklet. If you have any further questions, more information is available on our website.
Contact us:
T: 01904 770397
E: info@yorkcollege.ac.uk
W: www.yorkcollege.ac.uk
90% of our students accepted places at university after completion, 39% of those were to Russell Group universities (world-class institutions)
Each year, over 20,000 Access to HE students achieve the Access to HE Diploma and progress to university. At York College we are very proud to be a part of that.
Side by side with other like-minded students in similar positions, our courses promote life-long friendships, support networks and a vibrant community of learning
An Access to Higher Education course is for those who do not have standard entry qualifications, are over the age of 19 and who wish to progress to higher education. The grid gives examples of how applicants can demonstrate that they have the skills, knowledge, and attributes that should enable them to become a successful student on an Access to HE programme.
With all Access to HE Diplomas, you must be aged 19+ as from the August before your course starts.
Access to HE Diploma: Art & Design Level 2 English qualifications and evidence of ability in art and design/portfolio.
Access to HE Diploma: Clothing & Textiles Manufacturing
Access to HE Diploma: Health Science Professions
Access to HE Diploma: Medicine
Access to HE Diploma: Humanities and Social Sciences
Level 2 English qualifications and evidence of ability in art and design/portfolio.
GCSE grade C/4 or above in English, Maths and Science.
If students do not have a formal Level 2 English, Maths and Science qualification, they would need to complete this before starting the course.
GCSE grade C/4 and above in English and Maths. If students have a Level 2 English qualification then they can be invited to interview and we can advise on their best course of action.
If students do not have a formal Level 2 English qualification, they would need to do this before starting the course.
Access to HE Diploma: Policing GCSE grade C/4 or above in English & Maths. Most police forces and allied professions specify five GCSEs at grade C/4 or above including English and Maths and/or a Level 3 qualification.
Access to HE Diploma: Science GCSE grade C/4 or above in English and Maths. Students with Level 2 English and Maths may be invited to interview and a plan of action discussed. If students do not have a formal Level 2 English and Maths qualification, they would need to do this before starting the course.
Course fees vary each year. Prospective students are advised to contact us for the latest fees.
If students are interested in progressing on to a teaching degree, they must have GCSE grade C/4 or above in Maths, English and Science, as well as their Access Diploma.
This qualification is aimed primarily at students who wish to pursue a career in one of the humanities or social science professions which require academic study at university, but who are not yet ready to study at Level 3. This may be because of gaps in their skills or knowledge, perhaps because their schooling was interrupted or disrupted, or because they are returning to study after bringing up a family. Learners who may be in this position include those who need to:
• Build a foundation of knowledge and understanding in an unfamiliar academic area
• Prepare for higher-level study after some time away from formal education
• Build the confidence, skills, knowledge and understanding required to progress on to Level 3
• Achieve an appropriate formal qualification in order to progress to Level 3 study, such as an Access to HE Diploma
• This course is designed to be delivered alongside GCSEs if required.
This one-year course provides you with a thorough grounding in art and design. The range of units studied ensure you have a strong portfolio of creative ideas to show your potential for the next stage of your career.
The course begins with an introduction to creative art and design units through working with a wide variety of materials and processes. You will go on to complete projects in digital art, painting and drawing, textiles, book art, 3D and printmaking, alongside a broad range of self-directed projects.
In the early stages of the course, you will be shown how to experiment with materials and approaches to develop your own response to a series of assignment briefs. You will learn how to research a range of starting points, relate your ideas to the work of artists/designers and reflect on your practice as an artist. Over time, you will begin to find a direction within the field of art and design and work towards your subject specialism such as graphics, fine art, textiles or 3D crafts.
At all stages, you will be encouraged to adopt an innovative, creative, and personal approach to your work to build an individual portfolio. You will be asked to work on self-directed briefs, which will prepare you for developing your own practice or further study at degree level. To support this, there will be the opportunity to visit a UCAS fair and you will receive support with your UCAS application.
The course is run over two days each week for one academic year (32 weeks).
Under the guidance of our expert tutors, you will be encourage to explore different materials and techniques across our range of purpose-built workshops and studios.
A good level of student participation is expected throughout the duration of the course.
All coursework is project-based and assessed in relation to a set of assessment criteria.
The Access Art & Design course provides you with knowledge in a range of disciplines. We offer a supportive atmosphere in which to develop your skills and interests, and to build your confidence. With a flexible approach to your learning where possible, we provide you with the support and guidance required for your next steps towards your choice of further study, including your UCAS application, plus support in putting together a strong portfolio of work.
Students will have access to a wide range of media and materials. When suitable, there will be opportunities to access the print workshop, where you will be introduced to specialist print facilities, and the digital suite for designing on Apple Macs. Students have access to a fantastic range of College-wide facilities such as the Learning Resource Centre (LRC), study hubs, computer areas with accompanying multifunction printers and IT helpdesk advice.
Still have questions? Call 01904 770443 or email funding@yorkcollege.ac.uk
If you are aged 19 to 23, you may qualify for fee remission for an Access course, depending on your circumstances. Eligibility for a free course is based on government guidelines and the most up-to-date information is available on our website or from our Funding Team. If you do not qualify for free tuition, you will be able to pay for your tuition fees in instalments and may be eligible for an Advanced Learner Loan, which is then written off following progression on to and successful completion of an eligible degree. Further funding information is located on page 24-26.
All materials are provided for you to complete the course. However, you may need access to a PC/laptop and suitable Wi-Fi to access additional teaching and learning from home as required for the additional guided learning hours.
Students have gone on to study art and design degree courses across the country, including Wimbledon College of Art and Design, Northumbria University and Manchester Metropolitan University, among other prestigious art schools. Past students have progressed on to studying at HE level in a broad range of disciplines, including architecture, surface pattern design, graphic design and branding, illustration, and animation.
Successfully completing the course will enable you to apply for art and design degree courses at York College University Centre or at any other higher education institution.
To apply, simply visit the relevant course page on our website and complete an application form. www.yorkcollege.ac.uk
The course begins with an introduction to clothing and textile units through working with a variety of fashion and textiles materials and construction processes. You will go on to complete projects in manual and digital pattern cutting/drafting, garment construction/ production alongside self-directed projects that support your individual development.
In the early stages of the course, you will be shown how to explore materials and approaches to develop your own response to a series of assignment briefs. You will learn how to research a range of starting points, relate your ideas to the work of Fashion Designers and reflect on your practice as a Fashion/Textiles Designer - over time, you will begin to find a direction within this area.
At all stages, you will be encouraged to adopt an innovative, creative, and personal approach to your work to build an individual portfolio. You will be asked to work on self-directed briefs, which will prepare you for developing your own practice or further study at degree level. To support this, there will be the opportunity to visit the UCAS fair and will receive support with your UCAS application.
The course is run over two days each week for one academic year (32 weeks).
Under the guidance of our expert tutors, you will be encouraged to explore different materials and techniques across our range of purpose-built workshops and studios. A good level of student participation is expected throughout the duration of the course.
All coursework is project-based and assessed in relation to a set of assessment criteria.
The Access Clothing & Textile Manufacturing course provides you with specialist knowledge within these areas. We offer a supportive atmosphere in which to develop your skills and interests, and to build your confidence. We offer flexible learning and will provide you with support and guidance with your next step towards your choice of further study, including your UCAS application, plus support in putting together a strong portfolio of work.
Much of the learning will take place in our well-equipped studio and sewing workshop. Students will have access to the digital suite designing on Apple Macs, as well as the Gerber digital pattern making software. Students have access to a fantastic range of College-wide facilities such as the Learning & Research Centre, study hubs, computer areas with accompanying multi-function printers and helpdesk advice.
If you are aged 19 to 23, you may qualify for fee remission for an Access course depending on your circumstances. Eligibility for a free course is based on government guidelines and the most up-to-date information is available on our website or from our Funding Team. If you do not qualify for free tuition, you will be able to pay for your tuition fees in instalments and may be eligible for an Advanced Learner Loan, which is then written off following progression on to and successful completion of an eligible degree. Further funding information is located on page 24-26.
All materials are provided for you to complete the course. However, you may need access to a sewing machine to access additional teaching and learning from home as required for the additional guided learning hours - a PC/laptop and suitable Wi-Fi would also be advantageous.
Successfully completing the course will enable you to apply for the BA Fashion degree course at York College University Centre or at any other higher education institution.
Still have questions? Call 01904 770443 or email funding@yorkcollege.ac.uk
To apply, simply visit the relevant course page on our website and complete an application form. www.yorkcollege.ac.uk
The course is divided into units of assessment. Each unit is broken down into learning hours and most of the units are worth three, six or nine credits (one credit equals 10 learning hours).
To achieve the Diploma, you must achieve 60 credits, all credits are at Level 3 (equivalent to A Level standard).
Course Modules include:
• Study 15 credits of Study Skills – this will include Academic Writing Skills.
• Study 30 credits of Human Physiology – this will include study of the major body systems, infection and immunity and an introduction to pharmacology.
• Study 15 credits of Professional Health Care Practice – this will include study of communication, health promotion, mental health, and professional health care practice.
Units are designed to give an excellent foundation for progression to university to study nursing (all branches), midwifery and allied health professions, such as paramedic practice and physiotherapy.
The course is full-time over an academic year (32 weeks). This course is delivered online.
This course is delivered online. The programme delivery method includes online lectures and seminars, and a good level of student participation is expected.
You will be expected to make presentations throughout the course to develop your presentation skills.
Assessment may take the form of written reports, essays, controlled tests, logbooks, and presentations. Assessment will take place both during and at the end of each unit as appropriate. Graded units will be awarded as Distinction, Merit or Pass.
At the end of the course, you will be given a transcript listing all units and grades awarded: there is no overall grade.
Universities will specify the grades they expect you to achieve in various units as part of any offer they may make.
The Access Health Science Professions Diploma is an ideal stepping stone for anyone wanting to gain the basic knowledge and skills that underpin a successful career in the health sector, whatever field of study you choose to take for your next steps.
Students have access to a fantastic range of College-wide facilities such as the Learning & Research Centre, study hubs, computer areas with accompanying multi-function printers and IT helpdesk advice.
If you are aged 19 to 23, you may qualify for fee remission for an Access course depending on your circumstances. Eligibility for a free course is based on government guidelines and the most up-to-date information is available on our website or from our Funding Team. If you do not qualify for free tuition, you will be able to pay for your tuition fees in installments and may be eligible for an Advanced Learner Loan, which is then written off following progression on to and successful completion of an eligible degree. Further funding information is located on page 24-26.
All materials are provided for you to complete the course. However, you will need access to a PC/laptop and suitable Wi-Fi to access teaching and learning from home.
Students will be eligible to apply to a range of degree courses in the health profession such as:
• Nursing, Midwifery, Physiology, Occupational Therapy, Paramedic Science, Speech & Language Therapy, and Operating Department Practitioners.
Or alternatively, a range of general health and wellbeing degrees such as:
• Biomedical Science, Human Physiology, Human Biology or Sports Science, Food & Nutrition.
Still have questions? Call 01904 770443 or email funding@yorkcollege.ac.uk
To apply, simply visit the relevant course page on our website and complete an application form. www.yorkcollege.ac.uk
The course is divided into units of assessment. Each unit is broken down into learning hours and the units are worth three to six credits (one credit equals 10 learning hours).
This Access to HE Diploma consists of several units which are built up to meet the students proposed subject at degree level.
To achieve the Diploma, you must achieve 60 credits, of which 45 credits are graded and 15 are ungraded. A minimum of one examination taken under invigilation conditions must be successfully completed. All units are at Level 3 and need to be achieved.
This course is in three parts:
• A tutorial session which will be for three hours a week. You will complete units in academic writing, Higher Education Tool-Kit and reflective practice.
• Study two subjects for 4.5 hours a week each. Possible subjects are English Literature, History, Sociology, Criminology and Law. Individual modules are subject to change.
• Study a smaller unit for 1.5 hours a week. Possible subjects are Politics: Theory and Concepts, Short Stories and Education, Teaching and Learning.
The course is full-time over an academic year (32 weeks). Attendance is over three days per week plus an additional 10 to 15 hours of personal self-guided study.
The programme delivery method includes lectures and seminars and a good level of student participation is expected.
Assessment may take the form of written reports, essays, controlled tests, examinations and presentations. Assessment will take place both during and at the end of each unit as appropriate. Graded units will be awarded as Distinction, Merit or Pass.
At the end of the course, you will be given a transcript listing all of the units and grades awarded: there is no overall grade.
Universities will specify the grades they expect you to achieve in various units as part of any offer they may make.
The Access to HE Diploma: Humanities & Social Sciences Diploma boasts excellent progression rates to university, including Russell Group Universities and more local higher education establishments. Taught by well-qualified subject specialists who have significant experience of teaching, this course is an excellent stepping stone to your career.
Students have access to a fantastic range of College-wide facilities such as the Learning & Research Centre, study hubs, computer areas with accompanying multi-function printers and IT helpdesk advice.
If you are aged 19 to 23, you may qualify for fee remission for an Access course depending on your circumstances. Eligibility for a free course is based on government guidelines and the most up-to-date information is available on our website or from our Funding Team. If you do not qualify for free tuition, you will be able to pay for your tuition fees in instalments and may be eligible for an Advanced Learner Loan, which is then written off following progression on to and successful completion of an eligible degree. Further funding information is located on page 24-26.
All materials are provided for you to complete the course. However, you may need access to a PC/laptop and suitable Wi-Fi to access additional teaching and learning from home as required for the additional guided learning hours.
Progression to higher education to a broad range of courses is possible. Former students have gone on to complete courses such as BA (Hons) Sociology and Social Policy at University of York, BA (Hons) Psychology at University of Wales, BA (Hons) History at University of Newcastle upon Tyne, BA (Hons) Literature at the University of Leeds, BA (Hons) Philosophy at University of St Andrews, BA (Hons) Media at Thames Valley University London, BA (Hons) Primary Teacher Training at York St John University and BA (Hons) Criminology at Durham University.
Still have questions? Call 01904 770443 or email funding@yorkcollege.ac.uk
To apply, simply visit the relevant course page on our website and complete an application form. www.yorkcollege.ac.uk
The course is divided into units of assessment. Each unit is broken down into learning hours and most of the units are worth three, six or nine credits (one credit equals 10 learning hours). To achieve the Diploma, you must achieve 60 credits, all credits are at Level 3 (equivalent to A Level standard).
Studying the Access to HE Diploma (Medicine) will provide you with a sound understanding and knowledge in key subjects such as Chemistry, Biology, Mathematics, Study Skills and Professional Behaviours as an introduction to the higher education learning and assessment contexts that you may progress into at university. The course will provide you with an introduction to the requirements of a career in medicine, as well as an overview of the potential routes into the medical field. You will be supported in developing your skills and attributes in professional behaviours, as well as preparation for any additional aptitude tests that may be part of an application to medical schools.
Attendance in College is typically for three days per week for one academic year (32 weeks), plus an additional 10 to 15 hours of personal self-guided study.
The programme delivery method includes lectures and seminars and a good level of student participation is expected. You will be expected to make presentations on a regular basis throughout the course to develop your presentation skills. Attendance in College
is typically for three days per week plus an additional 10 to 15 hours of personal selfguided study. Timetables and hours of study will be discussed at the interview.
Assessment may take the form of reports, assignments, controlled tests, logbooks and presentations. Assessment will take place both during and at the end of each unit as appropriate. Graded units are eligible for grades and will be awarded as Distinction, Merit or Pass.
At the end of the course, you will be given a transcript listing all of the units and grades awarded: there is no overall grade.
Universities will specify the grades they expect you to achieve in various units as part of any offer they may make.
The NHS lists 29 pathways and specialisms in medicine, from emergency medicine, intensive care and anaesthetics, to cardiology, haematology, general practitioner (GP), dermatology, endocrinology and diabetes or research and forensic psychiatry, to name a few. This course can help you to access these pathways and specialisms in the future.
Students have access to a fantastic range of College-wide facilities such as the Learning & Research Centre, study hubs, computer areas with accompanying multi-function printers and helpdesk advice.
If you are aged 19 to 23, you may qualify for fee remission for an Access course depending on your circumstances. Eligibility for a free course is based on government guidelines and the most up-to-date information is available on our website or from our Funding Team. If you do not qualify for free tuition, you will be able to pay for your tuition fees in instalments and may be eligible for an Advanced Learner Loan, which is then written off following progression on to and successful completion of an eligible degree. Further funding information is located on page 24-26.
All materials are provided for you to complete the course. However, you may need access to a PC/laptop and suitable Wi-Fi to access additional teaching and learning from home as required for the additional guided learning hours.
In the past students have progressed on to higher education and have studied a range of courses in the medical field.
Still have questions? Call 01904 770443 or email funding@yorkcollege.ac.uk
To apply, simply visit the relevant course page on our website and complete an application form. www.yorkcollege.ac.uk
You will study the following course units/modules:
• Criminology: Exploring Crime and Deviance, Theoretical Approaches to Criminology & Current Issues in Criminology.
• Law: Source of English Law, The Law of Homicide, The Law of Negligence, Human Rights & The Powers of Police.
• Policing: Equality, Diversity and Inclusion, The Psychology of Criminal Investigation, Research Skills & Principles of Reflection.
Attendance in College is typically for three days per week for one academic year (32 weeks), plus an additional 10 to 15 hours of personal self-guided study.
The programme delivery method includes lectures and seminars and a good level of student participation is expected. You will be expected to make presentations on a regular basis throughout the course to develop your presentation skills. Attendance in College is typically for three days per week plus an additional 10 to 15 hours of personal self-guided study.
Assessment may take the form of reports, assignments, controlled tests, logbooks and presentations. Assessment will take place both during and at the end of each unit as appropriate. Graded units are eligible for grades and will be awarded as Distinction, Merit or Pass.
At the end of the course you will be given a transcript listing all of the units and grades awarded: there is no overall grade.
Universities will specify the grades they expect you to achieve in various units as part of any offer they may make.
This course will open doors for you to embark your career goals in a range of desirable job roles within the police. You will be equipped with the skills and knowledge required for the next stage in your education, with a recognised qualification enabling you to enrol on an undergraduate course at a higher education establishment of your choosing.
Students have access to a fantastic range of College-wide facilities such as the Learning & Research Centre, study hubs, computer areas with accompanying multi-function printers and helpdesk advice.
Still have questions? Call 01904 770443 or email funding@yorkcollege.ac.uk
If you are aged 19 to 23, you may qualify for fee remission for an Access course depending on your circumstances. Eligibility for a free course is based on government guidelines and the most up-to-date information is available on our website or from our Funding Team. If you do not qualify for free tuition, you will be able to pay for your tuition fees in instalments and may be eligible for an Advanced Learner Loan, which is then written off following progression on to and successful completion of an eligible degree. Further funding information is located on page 24-26.
All materials are provided for you to complete the course. However, you may need access to a PC/laptop and suitable Wi-Fi to access additional teaching and learning from home as required for the additional guided learning hours.
The Access to HE: Policing course provides you with a solid base of theoretical knowledge and technical capabilities to enable you to pursue a successful career in a range of subject areas relating to law, criminology and society, depending on your desired speciality area.
To apply, simply visit the relevant course page on our website and complete an application form. www.yorkcollege.ac.uk
The course is divided into units of assessment. Each unit is broken down into learning hours and most of the units are worth three to six credits (one credit equals 10 learning hours). You will specialise in either Physics and Maths, Chemistry and Maths or Chemistry and Biology.
Biology & Chemistry
• Ideal for those intending to progress into areas such as biology, chemistry, biomedical sciences or dietetics.
Chemistry & Mathematics
• Ideal for those intending to progress into areas such as mathematics or chemistry and can be useful for people who already have qualifications in biology or physics.
Mathematics & Physics
• Ideal for those intending to progress into areas such as mathematics, physics, engineering, or computer science.
On application, your chosen option will be discussed at an interview with a member of the Science Team. This interview will help ensure your preference will allow you to progress in your career or on to an appropriate university course.
You will complete all the units corresponding to the pathway you have chosen:
Biology
• Exploring Cells
• Enzymes
• Practical Biology Skills
• Systems Physiology
• DNA and Protein Synthesis
• Cellular Transport
• Biochemical Molecules
• Respiration in Cells
Chemistry
• Computing a Science Project
• Exploring Atoms, Bonds and Structures
• Moles, Equations and Acids
• Organic Chemistry
• Organic Compound Analysis
• Redox and Periodicity
• Transition Elements and Electrochemistry
• Enthalpy, Rates and Equilibrium Physics
• Computing a Science Project
• Exploring Waves and Optics
• Newtonian and Rotational Dynamics
• Particle and Nuclear Physics
• Electricity and Electromagnetism
• Thermodynamics Maths
• Exploring Algebra and Functions
• Introductory Calculus
• Further Differentiation
• Further Integration
• Kinematics
• Exponentials, Logs, Trigonometry and Series
• Further Trigonometry
• Algebra
The course is full-time over an academic year (32 weeks). Attendance is over three days per week, plus an additional 10-15 hours of personal self-guided study.
Seminars and tutorials will be attended on site in purpose-built laboratories.
A good level of student participation is expected throughout the duration of this course.
Assessment may take the form of reports, assignments, examinations, logbooks and presentations. Assessment will take place during and at the end of each unit as appropriate. Some units are ungraded and must simply be achieved; all other units will be awarded as Distinction, Merit or Pass.
At the end of the course, you will be given a transcript listing all units and the grade awarded; there is no overall grade.
Universities may specify a grade in certain units as part of any offer they may make.
The Access to HE Diploma: Science course provides you with a strong set of skills and technical capabilities to enable you to achieve, whichever your chosen pathway. We have an excellent record of securing entry into top universities such as the University of York, Leeds Beckett University and Sheffield Hallam University.
Where possible, practical sessions take place in modern, purpose-built laboratories, with an excellent range of equipment and you are supported by a dedicated team of specialist technicians.
Students have access to a fantastic range of College-wide facilities such as the Learning & Research Centre, study hubs, computer areas with accompanying multi-function printers and helpdesk advice.
If you are aged 19 to 23, you may qualify for fee remission for an Access course depending on your circumstances. Eligibility for a free course is based on government guidelines and the most up-to-date information is available on our
Still have questions? Call 01904 770443 or email funding@yorkcollege.ac.uk
To apply, simply visit the relevant course page on our website and complete an application form. www.yorkcollege.ac.uk
website or from our Funding Team. If you do not qualify for free tuition, you will be able to pay for your tuition fees in instalments and may be eligible for an Advanced Learner Loan, which is then written off following progression on to and successful completion of an eligible degree. Further funding information is located on page 24-26.
All materials are provided for you to complete the course. However, you may need access to a PC/laptop and suitable Wi-Fi to access additional teaching and learning from home as required for the additional guided learning hours.
Previously students have progressed on to higher education and have studied a range of courses in physics, chemistry, dietetics, nutrition, and professional training such as radiography and engineering.
After completing one of our Access to HE Diploma courses, our students progress on to various degree and higher-level courses. Read on to hear from some of our students as to why they chose their course and what they hope to achieve next.
I chose this Access course as I wanted to further my studies with a view to progressing to study a degree. I chose to study at York College as I knew it had a really good reputation and it welcomed mature students. I’ve felt thoroughly supported on my course by the excellent tutors. This course can be intense at times, but I’ve learned such a broad range of skills and I now feel well-equipped to progress on to a degree. I’ve also made some really good friends. I’ve really enjoyed my time at College and my tutors have been amazing. They are supportive, are talented in their own right, and have a wealth of experience. They have taught me so much in a short space of time. I’ve particularly enjoyed the studio time, discussing ideas and learning new techniques.
When I set out on my Access journey, my aim was to complete it and see where it would take me. I never thought I’d be accepting an offer to study Illustration at Leeds Arts University. This course has given me the foundation and skillset to go on to a degree feeling confident in my abilities. Without this course I wouldn’t have been able to do this. My aspiration is to illustrate books and I’m excited to see where it takes me.
Having completed the Access Course at York College in 2017, I successfully enrolled onto a BSc (Hons) Paramedic Science programme. In June 2020, I successfully graduated university with a first sclass honours degree and have subsequently been approved registration by the registering body ‘The HCPC’ and secured a job as a Paramedic with Yorkshire Ambulance Service.
Due to my acquired academic interests developed at both York College and at university, twinned with my exposure to both pre-hospital and hospital placements, I made the decision to pursue a career in medicine. This decision led to me securing a position on a one-year full time MSc in Forensic Science.
York College and the teaching staff at York College are solely responsible for providing me with an academic platform in which I was able to develop ideas and skills to ultimately gain the credits and formal qualifications required to pursue my desire of completing a paramedic degree programme. The support and encouragement offered by York College staff empowered me to progress from GCSE qualifications, to the Access course, to my BSc (Hons) Parademic Science degree and my MSc Forensic Science.
During the two years that I spent studying at York College, I was continuously offered support through active encouragement, academic tuition and supported learning. Not only was I offered exceptional academic support, but I was also supported through the challenging application process when applying to higher education institutes. It is without doubt that the support and encouragement that I received throughout my time at York College provided me with the confidence, ability and academic skillset required to excel on my degree programme.
If you’ve thought about studying for a new qualification but you’ve never been able to afford it, an Advanced Learner Loan could help you get started.
The loan can be used by students aged 19 or above on the first day of their course to pay for Level 3, 4, 5 or 6 qualifications including Access to HE Diploma, and they enable eligible students to borrow the course fee and pay them back at a later date. Your loan is paid directly to the College and you apply each year of study.
The Advanced Learner Loan can be particularly effective for people studying an Access course. If your loan is for an Access to HE Diploma, the loan and any interest accrued will be automatically written off when you successfully complete your degree. It should be stressed this only applies if you progress to, and successfully complete, a degree programme which is eligible for student finance.
You need to be studying for a Level 3, 4, 5 or 6 qualification and aged 19 or over on the first day of their course, there is no upper age limit.
You need to be a UK national or have settled status (there are no restrictions on how long you can stay in the UK), normally live in the UK, and have lived in the UK, EU or EEA for the last three years. If you don’t meet these criteria, or would like more advice about your eligibility, please contact the Funding Team (funding@ yorkcollege.ac.uk) or the International Office (international@yorkcollege.ac.uk).
Eligibility is not based on household income and you will not be credit checked when you apply. You can only apply for one Advanced Learning Loan for an Access course and can have a maximum of four loans.
The minimum loan amount is £300. You can borrow all of the tuition fee or only part, and pay the rest yourself.
No. The Advanced Learner Loan is for tuition fees only and is paid directly to the education provider. It cannot be used for living costs and you should ensure that you can cover these through work or benefits.
No, if you were planning to pay for the course yourself, and would prefer to do so, you do not have to borrow the money.
If you would like advice on managing your finances, you can get impartial money advice from the Money Advice Service at moneyadviceservice.org.uk or on 0300 500 5000.
• You only start paying back the loan after your course has finished and when your income rises above the ‘threshold’ amount.
• If you’re employed you don’t need to do anything; your employer will take your repayments off your salary, similar to tax anything; your employer will take your repayments off your salary, similar to tax and National Insurance deductions. Please ask them to contact the Funding Team if they require more information.
• If you stop working, your repayment stops until your salary rises above the ‘threshold’ amount again.
• Any loan remaining 30 years after you are due to start making repayments will be wiped out, providing you have successfully completed your course and have graduated.
Following successful completion of an Access to Higher Education course at York College, students starting and continuing their degree course from September 2020 can apply for the NHS Learning Support Fund (NHS LSF) if they’re on one of the following pre-registration Undergraduate or Postgraduate courses:
• Dental therapy/Dental hygiene (Level 5 and 6 courses)
• Dietetics
• Midwifery
• Nursing (adult, child, mental health, learning disability, joint nursing/social work)
• Occupational Therapy
• Operating Department Practitioner (Level 5 and 6 courses)
• Orthoptics
• Orthotics and Prosthetics
• Paramedics (bachelors and masters courses are eligible, DipHE and FD courses are not eligible for NHS LSF)
• Physiotherapy
• Podiatry/chiropody
• Radiography (diagnostic and therapeutic)
• Speech and language therapy
• A Training Grant for all eligible students of £5,000 per academic year – you need to be actively studying one of the courses from the list above, and receiving BOTH Tuition Fee Loan and Maintenance Loan. Full eligibility criteria can be found via the NHS Learning Support Fund website
• Parental Support of £2,000 for students with at least one dependent child under 15 years, or under 17 years if registered with special educational needs (this used to be called Child Dependants Allowance)
• Reimbursement of excess costs incurred on practice placement for travel and temporary accommodation costs (Travel and Dual Accommodation Expenses)
• Students experiencing financial hardship (Exceptional Support Fund)
Please visit the NHS Learning Support Fund website for full details.
York College is committed to equality of opportunity. The aim is to create an environment in which people treat each other with mutual respect, regardless of age, disability, family responsibility, marital status, race, colour, ethnicity, nationality, religion or belief, gender, gender identity, transgender, sexual orientation, trade union activity or unrelated criminal convictions.
The College is committed to equality for all and widening participation for disabled students and ensuring that all students have access to a high-quality learning experience.
To help us achieve this please make sure that you let us know what you need so we can make reasonable adjustments to help you succeed. If you have any queries regarding equality and diversity at York College, email: equalityanddiversity@yorkcollege.ac.uk
Every care has been taken to ensure the accuracy of the information provided in this brochure. However, York College cannot accept any responsibility for the consequences of any error or omissions in its content. If, in the opinion of the College authorities, circumstances necessitating a change in the course provision occur, an advertised course may be changed, or the content of any course may be modified.
All information was correct at the time of printing (September 2022). For the most up to date information please visit the website: www.yorkcollege.ac.uk
E & OE (Errors and Omissions Excepted).