Access to HE (Level 3)

Access to Higher Education (Forensics and Criminology) Level 3 Diploma

Duration Age Group Study Start Cost Available Locations
1 YEAR ADULT FULL TIME 12/09/2023
£3,384 * Southend Campus
Duration Age Group Study Start Cost Available Locations
1 YEAR ADULT FULL TIME 12/09/2023
£3,384 * Southend Campus

Overview

This course is for people that would like to study on a Higher Education programme in Forensics or Criminology e.g. the Criminology and Forensic Investigation BSc (Hons), but need to gain the required entry qualifications and skills.

Access programmes entail 13 hours of direct contact time in addition to a minimum of 13 hours independent study.

Entry Requirements

You must be aged 19 or above by the 31st of August 2021.

You must have at least one GCSE C/4 or above in either English Language or Maths, or a Level 2 in Functional Skills (evidence of this will be required during the application cycle).

Ideally you will have both. However, if you only hold the one, you may work towards the one that you do not have whilst studying for your Access Diploma; this will be dependent on being accepted onto a Level 2 course, either GCSE or Functional Skills.

Many universities require GCSE Maths and English rather than an equivalent. It is your responsibility to begin checking which qualifications you require with the university or college you wish to progress to.

Course Structure

You will study a range of different units across the programme, some focusing on your academic skills and some more subject specific, such as:

  • Introduction to criminology
  • Introduction to criminal Law
  • Careers within forensic science and criminology
  • The psychology of offender profiling
  • Criminal investigation and the criminal justice system
  • Forensic investigation procedures
  • Cell biology and biochemistry
  • Chemical basics and atomic structure

Assessment & Feedback

Your work will be assessed by a mixture of assessment methods which could include coursework, presentations and examinations.

Attendance

Southend - 13 hours directed study per week in addition to a minimum of 13 hours independent study.

The course runs 3 days a week, on a Monday, Tuesday and Friday between the hours of 9am and 4pm.

Please note that course days are subject to change if required before the enrolment date.

Course Cost

Advanced learner loan may be available

Adult, full_time: £3,384

Course fee based on 2021-22 for UK residents. Non-UK citizens will need to provide sufficient document/s confirming your right to live and study in the UK e.g. confirmation of settled status.

What Next...

Following successful completion of this Diploma, students will be able to progress to University to a range of pathways including criminology, police studies, forensic investigation and social sciences, including our BSc (hons) Criminology and Forensic Investigation programme here at University Centre Southend.