Access to Higher Education Diploma (Social Work) (Online)
Location
Applicant Type
Adults
Level
Level 3
Subject
Access to HE
Course Overview
This fully online Access to Higher Education Diploma in Social Work 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 beginning a new professional journey as well as learners returning to education after a break.
The course can be studied on a full time basis over 9 months, or on a part time basis over 18 months.
The programme combines essential academic study skills with specialist knowledge aligned to social work, social care and related professions. You will develop core skills in academic writing, reading, note making, research, critical thinking and communication, alongside an understanding of professional responsibilities, equality, diversity and inclusion, safeguarding, and the social policies that shape support services across the UK.
Subject learning focuses on key areas of psychology, sociology and social welfare, including human development, cognitive and biopsychology, family structures, crime and society, poverty, social inequality, prejudice and discrimination, and the role of the welfare state. You will also explore the role and responsibilities of social workers, social care provision, and the factors that influence individual and community wellbeing. Studied entirely online, the course offers maximum flexibility, with no classrooms or fixed timetables, allowing you to balance learning around work, family and other commitments.
You will be supported throughout your studies with an individual learning plan that clearly sets out assignment deadlines and helps you stay on track. Flexible study options allow you to complete the qualification at a pace that suits your circumstances. Completion of the Access to Higher Education Diploma in Social Work opens up progression to university and a wide range of career opportunities within social care, community services, youth work and related sectors. With growing demand for skilled professionals across support and care services, this course provides an accessible and supportive route into Higher Education and a rewarding career making a positive difference to people's lives.
To study this course you must have at least one Functional Skills Level 2 qualification (or equivalent GCSE grade C/4) in either English or maths. If you are missing one, you must be working towards it alongside your Access to Higher Education Diploma. However, if you need to achieve both English and maths, you will not be eligible to enrol.
To study this course, you must also 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.
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 Social Work, 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.
This course costs £3,022 for 2026 entry.
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.
After successful completion of the course you may progress on to Higher Education at University to pursue a career in social work.
Students then go on to develop carers in social work, social care, or community-based roles
Distance Learning (Online)
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Overall achievement rates (All learners)
90.2%
Ofstead good rating
A safe environment to learn
Qualifications earned per year
18232
Award-winning careers programe
State-of-the-art facilities
