Access to Higher Education Diploma (Nursing) (Online)

Location

Applicant Type

Adults

Level

Level 3

Subject

Access to HE

Course Overview

This fully online Access to Higher Education Diploma in Nursing is designed for learners who want to progress to university but need to gain the required entry qualifications, academic skills and subject knowledge first. Equivalent to three A Levels, the course is suitable for those starting a new career in nursing as well as learners returning to education after a period away. The programme combines core academic study skills with subject knowledge closely aligned to nursing and healthcare practice. You will develop skills in academic writing, reading, note‑making, numeracy and communication, alongside professional behaviours, equality and diversity, and multidisciplinary working within healthcare settings. Subject learning explores key areas of health and human biology, including body systems, mental health and coping strategies, dementia care, infection and immunity, health promotion, endocrinology and the impact of wider social factors on health. Studied entirely online, the course offers a flexible approach with no classrooms or fixed timetables, allowing you to balance your studies around work, family and other commitments. You will be supported throughout with an individual learning plan that clearly outlines assignment deadlines and helps you stay on track. Completion of the Access to Higher Education Diploma in Nursing opens up progression to university and a wide range of nursing careers within the NHS and private healthcare sector. Opportunities include roles across hospital wards, community healthcare and specialist areas such as mental health nursing, paediatric care and midwifery, making this course an accessible and supportive route into Higher Education and the nursing profession.

Entry Requirements

To study this course, you must meet the following requirements. You must be a UK resident with a valid UK postcode and be aged 19 or over at the start of the course. Learners aged between 19 and 23 must already hold a minimum full Level 2 qualification or an equivalent award. You must have achieved at least one Functional Skills Level 2 qualification, or an equivalent GCSE grade 4 or C, in either English or maths. If you are missing one of these subjects, you must be working towards it alongside your Access to Higher Education Diploma. However, learners who need to achieve both English and maths will not be eligible to enrol. Learners must be actively studying for a minimum of six months before results can be ratified and certificates ordered. This six‑month period begins only once Unit 2 has been successfully completed, and learners must be submitting assignments regularly in line with the deadlines set out in their Individual Learning Plan. Certificates can only be issued once the course fees have been paid in full.

Assessment and Feedback

Assessment is completed through a range of coursework activities, which may include written reports, essays, case studies, portfolios, presentations, creative tasks and academic skills exercises. There are no exams on this course. At the end of each module, you will complete an assignment and receive detailed feedback from your tutor to support your development and progression. On successful completion of the Access to Higher Education Diploma in Nursing, you will be awarded a Skills & Education Group Access QAA‑recognised Level 3 Access to Higher Education Diploma. Throughout the programme, you will also receive guidance and support with your university application and the research needed to make the most of your qualification.#

Fees and Funding

This course costs £3384 for the academic year 2025/2026. You may be entitled to a 19+ Advanced Learner Loan to cover the costs of your Access course. Loan eligibility does not depend on your income and there are no credit checks. Student Finance England, who are responsible for student loans will ‘write off’ any outstanding Advanced Learner Loan balances for your Access to HE course as soon as you complete a higher education course. This means you do not have to repay your Advanced Learner Loan if you progress to higher education and complete your degree programme.

Future study/career options

On successful completion of the course, learners may progress to Higher Education and pursue a wide range of nursing careers across hospital, community and specialist healthcare settings, including adult, children’s, mental health and specialist nursing pathways.

Study Commitment

1 year

Additional Information

Distance Learning (Online)

Part Time

Full Time