TAKING YOU HIGHER
It’s never too late to change your life
Access to Higher Education Courses 2024-2025
Realise your true potential Do you want a new career? Do you want to study at University but don’t have the right qualifications? At Middlesbrough College, we believe everyone deserves a second chance to get the career they really want. An Access to Higher Education (HE) course is the perfect route back into education and to your future career! Studied part-time across one year, our career focused courses prepare you with the skills and knowledge you need to study at University. Delivered with busy lifestyles in mind, our flexible courses provide family friendly learning hours so you can get the qualifications you need to access the career you want. Whatever your ambitions, our exciting range of courses will help get you there.
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Open Events
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What is an Access to Higher Education Diploma?
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Step up to a degree for free
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Supporting you to step back into education
10 MC Click Student Device Scheme 12 Your campus 14 University Centre Middlesbrough 16 English & maths (GCSEs and Functional Skills) 18 Apply to Access in 3! 19 Our Access to Higher Education Courses Access to HE Diplomas 20 Business Studies 20 Computing 22 Creative Industries (Games and Media Production) 22 Engineering 24 Health 26 Law & Criminology 26 Policing
FREE* courses to get you to University!
*Your Access to HE Diploma will be FREE once you complete your degree as your Advanced Learner Loan will be written off by Student Finance England.
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Open Events Come and visit us at one of our Open Events! It’s your chance to find out more about the subjects we offer, speak with our friendly tutors, tour our campus and get a real taste of studying at Middlesbrough College. At our events you can: ❱ Meet our expert tutors. ❱ Find out how your course can be funded through an Advanced Learner Loan and become FREE once you go onto study for your degree. ❱ Learn about our different Access programmes and the careers they lead to. ❱ Apply for one of our courses, ready to start in September! Thursday 7th December ‘23 5:00pm-7:00pm Tuesday 23rd January ‘24 5:00pm-7:00pm Wednesday 13th March ‘24 5:00pm-7:00pm Thursday 25th April ‘24 5:00pm-7:00pm Thursday 20th June ‘24 5:00pm-6:30pm
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What is an Access to Higher Education Diploma? If you have ambitions of becoming a high-level professional such as a nurse, dentist, teacher, engineer or midwife, you will need a degree to get there. Access to Higher Education (HE) Diplomas are an exciting alternative to A Levels and BTEC qualifications. Our courses are for adult learners and are designed to get you ready for University. Studied part-time across one year, Access courses have been developed by Universities to ensure you gain the skills and requirements needed for degree level study.
Why study at Middlesbrough College? Flexible to fit around you
Our Access Diplomas are widely recognised by Universities and offer flexible and family friendly hours to fit around busy lifestyles. We understand people have other commitments, which is why our delivery includes elements of on campus and online learning. Depending on your chosen course you’ll be in College between 7-13 hours per week.
Designed for students who have been out of education
Access Diplomas are the perfect choice for mature learners who want to go to University and have been out of education a while. They are also an ideal route if you haven’t worked or studied in the industry you wish to break into! Plus, you won’t have to do exams! Our Access courses are assessed through assignments, meaning no exams! and you will be fully supported by our expert tutors to complete these.
Cheaper than a foundation year
Access diplomas are a lot cheaper than studying a foundation year or year 0 at University, plus you might be able to study your course for FREE!
Support every step of the way
We know that returning to education can be daunting, which is why we have a range of fantastic support services to help you reach your full potential. Middlesbrough College will provide you with first class teaching, excellent one to one support and small class sizes from tutors with industry experience who will help ease you back into a classroom environment.
Amazing student perks
We are proud to offer all our Access students the opportunity to loan a laptop for FREE with our MC Click scheme!
97% of Access students completing in 2022 secured a positive destination after completing their course.
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“I would encourage anyone who is considering studying for an Access course here to do it! Education is so important. It makes you stronger and allows you to earn your own money and have your own independence.” Sidra Alahmar Access to Higher Education Diploma in Law & Criminology Sidra has a place at University to study Law.
Sidra
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Step up to a degree for FREE Fees
Advanced Learner Loan
Fees shouldn’t stop you achieving your goals and unlike a year 0 or Foundation degree at University, you could study an Access course for FREE!
If you are aged 19 or over at the start of your course, you can apply for an Advanced Learner Loan to cover your tuition fee through Student Finance England via www.gov.uk/student-finance
If you do not already hold a full Level 3 qualification (such as two A Levels or a Level 3 BTEC Diploma) and are aged between 19-23, your course will be FREE! If you are aged 19-23 and you already have a full Level 3 qualification or you are aged 24 or over on the start date of your course, you will have to pay for your fees or you can apply for an Advanced Learner Loan.
The loan is designed to pay for part of, or the full cost of tuition. You’ll only have to start making repayments after you complete your course and are earning over £27,295 per year.
Your course could be free If you complete a degree after your Access to HE Diploma, your Advanced Learner Loan will be written off by Student Finance England and your Access course will be FREE!
Support with forms Our team can support you to complete your application for an Advanced Learner Loan. Find out more and apply on our website!
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“My advice to anyone who wants to return to education or needs to because of situations that are out of their control is to go for it and ask for help- nothing is impossible!” Middlesbrough College has been my friend. At a time when I was still processing some of the trauma I had been through in my past, the College gave me all the support I could need.” Aiman Aziz Access to Higher Education Diploma in Science Aiman was a refugee fleeing war-torn Iraq. He is now studying for a degree in Pharmacy at the University of Sunderland.
Aiman
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Supporting you to step back into education
We know that returning to education can be a daunting experience, that’s why our experienced team are on hand to provide you with a range of specialist support services.
Careers guidance Our experienced team of Careers Advisers can provide free information, advice and guidance to help you decide your future career path. They can also provide you with guidance on the range of progression opportunities available to you after completing your Access Diploma and can support with University applications and CVs.
Additional learning support We are committed to creating a community that positively welcomes diversity and are proud to be an open and inclusive College.
Student Services
Our experienced team provide additional learning support to students with disabilities and/or learning difficulties such as dyslexia, sensory impairments and personal care needs, so you have the right tools and support to succeed.
Our Student Services team can provide you with a range of services to support you throughout your studies. This includes dedicated safeguarding and welfare officers and our counselling service, which is free and confidential for all students.
Visit our website to see our full list of support care packages or call 01642 333889 to speak with a member of our ALS team.
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Employability support
Learning Resource Centre
Our team includes a specialist employability coach who can support you with CV writing, interview preparation and help you find a part-time job whilst studying towards your qualification.
Our Learning Resource Centre is a peaceful place to study if you are looking for a quieter space in College. This outstanding hub of information is set over two floors and houses over 23,000 books as well as a substantial range of e-publications.
Supporting your learning As part of our approach to learning, you will have access to your own College network account which will enable you to access course information and announcements, course handbooks, week by week resources and assignment information. This can be accessed in College or at home. You can also subscribe for free to Office 365 on your own device or your loan laptop!
Course tutor support All our tutors have an open door policy and are here to support you throughout your studies. From advising on course work and Harvard referencing to chatting through any concerns or worries – our team are here to help.
“I was a bit nervous to start with but I settled in straight away! All of my tutors have been incredibly supportive and because they have previously worked in industry, they’re very knowledgeable on the subject.
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The course has 100% played a part in helping me achieve my dreams!” Nicole Chahine Access to HE Diploma in Policing Nicole progressed to a Police Constable Degree Apprenticeship with The North Yorkshire Police.
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We are proud to offer all our Access students the opportunity to loan a device for FREE. MC Click free laptop loan scheme will help to develop your digital skills, allow you to complete your work and showcase your skills. You can capture activities on video, create and share, record group discussions and tutor feedback, all with the click of a button!
Find out more about the scheme!
All students will use Microsoft Teams for their work. Microsoft Teams is a fantastic tool and will help you to manage your College work, ask tutors questions and safely store your work.
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“The Access to HE Diploma has helped to improve mine and my family’s life. I’ve improved my future career prospects and I’m now studying a University level course with the College’s University Centre! I want to be an inspiration for my daughter and show her that if you put your mind to something, you can achieve it. My advice to anyone considering coming back into education is to do it! The Access to HE course is very affordable and can open the door to your dream career.” Martin Wilkinson Access to HE Diploma in Creative Industries (Games and Media Production) Martin progressed to Middlesbrough College’s University Centre to study the Higher National Certificate in Creative Media Production (Games Development).
Martin
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Your campus
We are proud of our campus and our facilities will provide you with everything you need to succeed.
Learning Resource Centre
Dedicated Access to HE Lounge
We have a large Learning Resource Centre in the main building which is a quiet space for you to work. You’ll have access to bookable computers, over 23,000 physical books and a huge range of e-books too to help you succeed in your studies!
Our Campus heart is the perfect place to relax after your lectures, featuring Costa Coffee and our very own street eats!
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Fitness Studio
Enjoy lunch in our award-winning training restaurant, The Waterside Brasserie
Engineering Workshops A range of cafés across the College
Have a low-cost haircut or beauty treatment in our hair & beauty salons
Health & Care Ward STEM Specialist College
MC Digital
Our £20m STEM Engineering Centre is a unique and inspirational space, allowing you to learn new skills in a simulated industrial site!
We are proud to be a STEM specialist College with an exciting digital offer and our very own brand-new industry standard digital school- MC Digital. The centre is host to industry-leading programming suites, cyber labs, video editing suites, a games design suite and a full TV and film studio.
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University Centre Middlesbrough
Choose to take your education higher with our careerdriven University courses. Studying at University Centre Middlesbrough allows you to stay local and save money too. Our University Centre offers you a practical alternative to a traditional University, where you are able to study University qualifications whilst benefitting from: • • • •
Specialist teaching environments 1:1 support
Small class sizes
Activities linked to employers and industry
We’ll guarantee you a place with us! Upon completion of your Access course, you will be guaranteed a place on one of our University programmes, providing you have the entry criteria for the course. 14
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See mbro.ac.uk/ university-level to find out more!
“The team at Middlesbrough College have been the most consistent people in my life. They’ve not only helped me professionally, in giving me the skills I need to do something I love career wise, but they’ve really helped me turn my life around. I’m so thankful for my tutors because I wouldn’t be where I am now without them.”
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Kira Coleman BSc (Hons) Audio & Music Production The Access to HE course helped Kira to get her life back on track after years of suffering with PTSD and finding herself homeless. Kira studied the Access to Higher Education Diploma in Music and then progressed to Middlesbrough College’s University Centre to study for her degree. Kira was the class of 2022 Valedictorian at the Middlesbrough College Graduation Ceremony. Kira also works at The Globe Theatre in Stockton.
Kira Kira won Student of the Year at the Tees Businesswomen Awards 2022!
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English & maths (GCSEs and Functional Skills)
skills
We know that some degrees require English and maths qualifications. If you don’t have a grade 4 (C) or above in English and maths or are not working towards a Level 2 in maths and English, we can help. Studying a Functional Skills or GCSE qualification would be a good place to start before beginning your Access Diploma. These courses are free for anyone who is 19+ and doesn’t have a previous grade C (4) or above in these subjects.
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English, Maths & Science (GCSEs and Functional Skills)
Functional Skills - English
GCSE English Language
Entry Level 1, 2 & 3 and Level 1 & 2
Level 2
This qualification aims to develop your skills and confidence by helping you to improve your skills at a level appropriate to your needs and competence. You will develop your reading, writing, speaking and listening skills in a number of different ways, practising skills which you will need in your everyday life. You will be taught using a variety of interactive IT resources alongside formal classroom teaching.
This qualification provides you with the skills and abilities you need to investigate and analyse language and to experiment and use language creatively. This course will develop your skills in the four language skills of reading, writing, speaking and listening.
Entry requirements There are no formal entry requirements, learners will be assessed at induction.
Entry requirements: You must have achieved a grade 3 (D) in GCSE English (language or literature) OR a Level 2 literacy qualification such as Functional Skills OR will have satisfactorily passed a short reading and writing task issued by the College.
Functional Skills - Maths
GCSE Maths
Entry Level 1, 2 & 3 and Level 1 & 2
Level 2
This qualification aims to develop your understanding of numbers and your ability to manipulate numbers efficiently and confidently and apply these skills to solve everyday problems.
GCSE mathematics is a one year course to enable students to obtain at least a grade 4 (C). The course covers number, algebra, statistics and geometry.
Entry requirements There are no formal entry requirements, learners will be assessed at induction.
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Entry requirements You must provide evidence of obtaining a grade 3 (D) already in GCSE mathematics or be assessing at Level 2 Functional Skills.
“It’s never too late to change your life and pursue your dreams! I would definitely recommend studying an Access course. The course is demanding but so rewarding.” Julian Nwosu Access to Higher Education Diploma in Health Julian is now a qualified nurse.
Julian
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Apply to Access in 3!
3 easy steps to apply for your Access to HE Diploma:
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Visit our website and complete an online application form for the Access course of your choice
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Come in for a chat with our team! You’ll be invited to meet your tutor and chat through the course. This may be on campus or online. They will tell you more about the course and find out more about you and your future goals. You may need to complete a short assessment.
3 Offer!
You’ll be offered a conditional place on the course depending on your current qualifications.
Our team will be in touch in August with information about how to enrol onto your Access to HE Diploma!
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Our Access to Higher Education Courses 20 20 22 22
Business Studies
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Health
Creative Industries
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Policing
Computing
(Media & Film Production)
Engineering
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Law & Criminology Science
“You have nothing to lose and everything to gain! Everyone in the College is so friendly and want you to do your best. I now have the skills to succeed at University and I cannot thank the careers team and my tutors enough.”
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Sophie Gilmour Access to Higher Education Diploma in Science Sophie is now studying Dental Surgery at Liverpool University.
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Access to HE Diploma in
Access to HE Diploma in
Duration: 1 year Awarding Body: One Awards When: Daytime and Evening study Price: £3,022
Duration: 1 year Awarding Body: AIM Awards When: Daytime study Price: £3,928
Overview This course is for you if you are interested in business studies as you will study a range of modules that will provide you with a good grounding in the fundamentals of businesses, their management and context. This course will also prepare you for University level study.
Overview This course is for you if you are interested in pursuing a career in the computing and digital industry. This course will give you with the skills needed to move on to University.
Business Studies - Level 3
Modules Include: • Human Resource Management • Management Functions • Team Building • Accounting for Managers • Marketing • English Language • Maths • Entrepreneurship/Innovation Modules offered may vary. Entry Requirements You must complete a successful interview and be working at a Level 2 English and maths. Careers/University Opportunities Career opportunities include management, business advice, business analysis, accountancy, project management, marketing, human resources and banking. Past students have progressed to study degrees in business, human resource management, marketing, business studies, statistics, accountancy, financial services and law.
Computing - Level 3
Modules Include: • Computer Systems • Cyber Security • Database Applications • Introduction to Computer Architecture • Introduction to programming • Systems Analysis and Design • Maths for Computing • Web Page Design & Production Modules offered may vary. Entry Requirements You must complete a successful interview and be working at a Level 2 English and maths. Careers/University Opportunities Career opportunities include web design, web development, IT consulting, IT systems management, systems analysis, games development, data analysis and programming. Past students have progressed to study degrees in computing, computer science, software development, web development, app design, artificial intelligence, networked systems, digital games, games design and production.
96% of students think the teaching on their course is good!
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“The College atmosphere is very diverse, inclusive and full of respect. The tutors at Middlesbrough College are extremely knowledgeable, encouraging, understanding and they always go that extra mile to help students achieve their ambitions.” Tiba Talib Access to Higher Education Diploma in Business Tiba progressed to University to study a degree in Business Management.
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Access to HE Diploma in
Creative Industries
(Games and Media Production - Level 3) Duration: 1 year Awarding Body: AIM Awards When: Daytime study Price: £3,384 Overview This course is aimed at students who have an interest in the creative applications of electronic media in the modern media industry. This course will help you develop your own digital portfolio showcasing your creative work that is developed throughout the course. The creative work will showcase a range of skills from Film Production to Games Design. This course will give you the skills you need to progress to University. Modules Include: • Portfolio Development in Art and Design • Edit Skills and Adjustments • Digital Video Production • Computer in Art, Design and Media • Production and Post-Production for Digital Video • Introduction to Graphic Design • Multimedia as a Promotional Tool • Games Design • Games 3D Tools • Motion Graphic Software for Digital Marketing Modules offered may vary. Entry Requirements You should be working towards Level 2 in maths and English and provide a good reference and complete a successful interview. Industry background and a portfolio will also be taken into consideration if you have not been in education for some time. Careers/University Opportunities These include games design, photpgraphy, film, television, radio and other types of journalism. Past students have progressed to study degrees in games design and media related subjects such as digital video production, film studies, games design, film and television production, cinematography, audiovisual technology, journalism, mixed media, media and communications.
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Access to HE Diploma in
Engineering - Level 3 Duration: 1 year Awarding Body: One Awards When: Daytime study Price: £3,928 Overview This course would be a good choice for you if you are interested in pursuing a career in the engineering sector. You will study mechanical and electrical engineering subjects together with chemical engineering and higher mathematics. This course will give you the skills to progress to University. Modules Include: • Electrical Principles • Mechanical Science • Engineering Physics • Introduction to Maths • Higher Skills in Maths • Chemical Science • Design Project Modules offered may vary. Entry Requirements Due to the nature of the programme, you must demonstrate the ability to be working at a minimum of Level 2 in mathematics and English, this can be demonstrated by your achievement of a grade 4 (C) or equivalent in GCSE Maths, English and Science, or through a diagnostic test at interview. Careers/University Opportunities These include aerospace engineering, automotive engineering, civil engineering, maintenance engineering, nuclear engineering, electrical engineering, instrumentation and control engineering, mechanical engineering and chemical engineering. Past students have progressed to study HNC/ Ds and degrees in engineering, mechanical engineering, manufacturing engineering, electrical/ electronic engineering, construction management, civil engineering, operations (instrumentation) engineering and chemical engineering.
“Before I started my Access to HE Diploma I was working in a string of dead end jobs, but Middlesbrough College changed my life. It gave me a host of transferable skills and the confidence to pursue my dream career. I would definitely recommend studying for an Access to HE Diploma!”
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Hayley Little Access to Higher Education Diploma in Engineering Hayley is now working as a Process Engineer at SABIC Corporate.
Hayley
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Access to HE Diploma in
The Access to HE Diploma in Health can also be studied as a Distance Learning programme
Duration: 1 year Awarding Body: One Awards When: Daytime and Evening study Price: £3,384
Entry Requirements You must be working towards Level 2 in maths and English and provide a good reference and complete a successful interview.
Overview This course is a great choice for you if you are interested in pursuing a career in the health sector. This course will give you the skills you need to progress to University.
Experience in the care Industry will also be taken into consideration if you have not been in education for some time.
Health - Level 3
Modules Include: • Values Based Health Care • Contemporary Issues in Health Care • Human Biology • Disease and the Human Immune Response • Psychology and Sociology of Health • English • Maths Modules offered may vary.
Please also check entry requirements at your chosen course and University prior to applying for the course. Careers/University Opportunities These include nursing, midwifery, physiotherapy, radiography and psychology. Past students have progressed to study degrees in health, wellbeing and social care, early childhood practice, social and public sector studies, youth, childhood and community studies, nursing, physiotherapy, paramedic studies, radiography, psychology occupational therapy (OT) and biomedical sciences.
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“If you’re considering studying an Access course, you won’t regret it - it has changed my life! The course was fantastic and I can’t thank the tutors enough for their support.” Sean Griffiths Access to Higher Education Diploma in Health Sean is now a Paramedic for the North East Ambulance Service.
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Sean
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“If you are thinking about returning to education, do it. Not only did it make a difference to me, but it made a difference to my family.” Ellie Young Access to HE Diploma in Health Ellie is now a qualified Midwife.
Ellie
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Access to HE Diploma in
Access to HE Diploma in
Duration: 1 year Awarding Body: AIM Awards When: Daytime study Price: £3,022
Duration: 1 year Awarding Body: AIM Awards When: Daytime study Price: £3,022
Overview Law and criminology are popular subjects, and the course would be an introduction to both disciplines. This course is for anyone thinking of applying to University to study either discipline or a joint honours degree.
Overview This course will prepare you for University and for a career in the Police on the Police Constable Degree Apprenticeship (PCDA).
Law and Criminology - Level 3
Modules Include: • The Courts and Justice • Criminal Law • Introduction to Tort of Negligence • Crime in context • Law and/or Criminology Project Modules offered may vary and are subject to annual review Entry Requirements You should have a minimum of GCSE English and maths at grade 4 or be working towards level 2 functional skills or equivalent. Careers/University Opportunities This course is suited to students who wish to study a Law, Criminology or joint degree. This could then lead to a career in both legal professions and the criminal justice agencies after undergraduate study.
Policing - Level 3
Modules Include: • Crime in Context • Law and Criminology Project • Criminal Law • Introduction to Law Enforcement • Professional Behaviour for Police Officers • Sociology of Crime and Deviance • Develop English and Maths Skills • Explain, Understand and Explore the Causes of Crime. • Collect, Analyse and Evaluate Research Data. • Understand the Fundamental Principles of Criminal Liability. • Analyse the Role and Responsibilities of Law Enforcement Officers in the UK. Modules offered may vary. Entry Requirements You must provide two suitable references and ideally be working at Level 2 in English and maths. Please also check Police Officer entry requirements prior to applying for the course. Careers/University Opportunities After completing your course, you can progress to a degree related to policing and criminology.
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Access to HE Diplomas
Access to HE Diploma in
Science - Level 3
Duration: 1 year Awarding Body: AIM Awards When: Daytime and Evening study Price: £3,384 Overview The course provides an opportunity to cover all three sciences, but there is a higher emphasis on biology and chemistry units. There is practical work in the laboratory throughout the course and units in maths and English support the skills required to progress into studying science in higher education. Modules Include: • Chemistry • Chemical Science • Biology • Physics: Wave Motion • Human Biology: Immunology • Human Biology: Genetics • Practical Scientific Project: Report and Evaluation • English Language • Mathematics: Systems, Logarithmic, Exponential and Trigonometric Functions • Mathematics: Data Handling and Statistical Analysis Modules offered may vary. Entry Requirements You should have a minimum of GCSE English and maths at grade 4 or at the time of enrolment be working towards level 2 functional skills or equivalent. It is also highly advisable to have already achieved a grade 4 or above in GCSE science. Careers/University Opportunities These include biomedical science, food and nutrition, chemical science, forensic science, pharmacy, biology and marine sciences. Past students have progressed to study degrees in psychology, biomedical sciences, marine biology, chemistry, diagnostic radiography, dentistry, dietetics and forensic science.
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Stay Connected
Open Events:
Like us on Facebook, follow us on X, Instagram and TikTok or take a look at our website to stay up to date with all of our latest news, events, photos, videos and competitions!
Thursday 7th December ‘23 5:00pm - 7:00pm
@MiddlesbroughCollege
Thursday 25th April ‘24 5:00pm - 7:00pm
Tuesday 23rd January ‘24 5:00pm - 7:00pm Wednesday 13th March ‘24 5:00pm - 7:00pm
Thursday 20th June ‘24 5:00pm - 6:30pm Whilst every effort is made to ensure the accuracy of information in this guide, it is advisable to check information prior to enrolment. The College reserves the right to cancel programmes if there is insufficient enrolment and amend information at any time.
Middlesbrough College Dock Street Middlesbrough TS2 1AD Tel. 01642 333333 www.mbro.ac.uk