Access to Higher Education Diploma (Science) - Biochemical Pathway
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Access to Higher Education Diploma (Science) - Biochemical Pathway
This Course at a Glance
- Work in a rapidly expanding area of science
- Pursue a career that makes life-changing discoveries
- Average completion within 9-12 months
- Go to university without A Levels
- Study flexibly
- Flexible payment methods
- No exams
About your Diploma
Are you fascinated by the tests and research that goes on in laboratories? Or the major breakthroughs they lead to in health, science and industrial sectors? If you’re scientifically minded, are a keen problem solver and want a career at the forefront of innovation and change, you should consider studying biochemical science.
All life on Earth hinges on biochemical reactions and processes, making biochemistry one of the most vital areas of science. The breakthroughs made by biochemists have led to the creation of essential diagnostic tools, therapies and medicines that keep people alive and healthy each day. As such, the impact biochemical research has on the world is astounding.
By studying an Access to Higher Education Diploma (Science) - Biochemical Pathway, you can get the skills and qualifications to pursue a career that makes a real difference to people’s lives. Equivalent to three A Levels, it allows you to go to university, and with such a detailed focus on this important area of scientific study, you can progress onto an array of fascinating degree topics.
Throughout this course, you will study topics that cover the typical scope of biochemistry. This includes the atomic structure, the Periodic Table, human nutrition, cell division and heredity
Gaining this knowledge can be a great stepping stone to careers in biomedical science. You could become anything from a Pharmacologist or even a Forensic Scientist!
Getting Started
learndirect is the leading UK online course provider. This Access to Higher Education Diploma (Science) - Biochemical Pathway is a Level 3 nationally recognised qualification that is regulated by the Quality Assurance Agency for Higher Education (QAA).
As it’s studied entirely online, the flexibility of the course enables you to work towards your science-related future outside of your current commitments. Meaning there is no issue if you have to juggle a full-time job or childcare with your studies.
When studying your Access to Higher Education Diploma, you will have up to two years to complete the course. Though, the freedom to move through the modules at your pace sees most of our students complete their Access to HE Diploma within 9-12 months.
You will be provided with an Individual Learning Plan that outlines the submission deadlines for your assignments to keep you on track throughout your studies.
*Please note, entry requirements differ between universities, so it’s always best to check with your chosen institution that your qualification will be accepted before enrolling on a course.
88%
Unit 1: Preparing To Study
On completion of this unit you will:
- Understand how study is organised and planned
- Understand how to apply theories of learning in relation to personal approaches to learning
- Understand a range of constraints upon study
- Understand the importance of assessment feedback.
Unit 2: Academic Writing Skills
On completion of this unit you will:
- Be able to write with relevance in responding to an academic task.
- Know how to interpret and discuss concepts and debates in responding to a set, academic writing task.
- Be able to summarise for academic purposes, selecting key points, information or central ideas.
- Understand the role of reference, allusion and paraphrase to avoid plagiarism.
Unit 3: Preparing a Written Assignment
On completion of this unit you will:
- Understand how to use key information sources.
- Understand why sources are acknowledged and referenced.
- Understand a range of reading strategies.
- Understand note-making methods.
- Understand how to plan draft and produce a written assignment.
Unit 4: Cell Biology
On completion of this unit you will:
- Understand the cell.
- Understand cellular metabolism.
- Understand how cells grow and divide.
Unit 5: Atomic Structure
On completion of this unit you will:
- Understand protons, neutrons and electrons in terms of their relative charges and masses.
- Understand the distribution of protons, neutrons and electrons in an atom given its Atomic number and Mass number, including some isotopes.
- Understand the number and relative energies of the s, p and d orbitals for the principal quantum numbers and know the shapes of s, p and d orbitals.
- Understand how ionisation energies of elements relate to reactivity.
- Understand the position of elements within the periodic table from ionisation energy data.
Unit 6: Cell Division & Heredity
On completion of this unit you will:
- Demonstrate a knowledge of cell division.
- Demonstrate an understanding of heredity and genetic variation.
Unit 7: Periodic Table
On completion of this unit you will:
- Understand the periodic table.
- Understand periodicity in the elements of period 3.
- Understand ionisation energy.
- Understand oxidation and reduction.
- Understand reactions of the Group 2 metals.
- Understand the group 7 elements.
Unit 8: Human Reproduction, Growth & Development
On completion of this unit you will:
- Understand the structure and function of the human reproductive system
- Understand how hormones regulate the reproductive tract throughout life
- Understand the sequence of events from conception to puberty
Unit 9: Atomic Structure & Bonding
On completion of this unit you will:
- Understand the structure of the atom.
- Understand electronic structures.
- Understand the formation of ionic bonds
Unit 10: The Human Endocrine & Nervous System
On completion of this unit you will:
- Understand the anatomy and organisation of the nervous system and how it co- ordinates the body.
- Understand the structure and function of nerve cells and other cells in the nervous system.
- Understand how the endocrine system co-ordinates body functions.
- Understand homeostasis.
Unit 11: The Brain & Nervous System
On completion of this unit you will:
- Understand the major sub divisions of the nervous system.
- Understand the structure and function of glial cells and neurons.
Unit 12: Chemical Bonding and Structure
On completion of this unit you will:
- Understand the nature of organic chemicals
Unit 13: Human Immunity
On completion of this unit you will:
- Understand non-specific defences against disease.
- Understand specific immunity and the immune response.
- Understand the biology of vaccination.
- Understand how immune sensitivity may cause ill-health.
Unit 14: Human Disease and Prevention
On completion of this unit you will:
- Understand the categories and causes of disease using infectious disease to illustrate your answer
- Understand the epidermiology of commonly occurring diseases/conditions
- Understand preventative measures for a chosen disease or condition
Unit 15: Hydrocarbons
On completion of this unit you will:
- Understand the importance of organic compounds.
- Understand the structure and characteristic reactions of alkanes.
- Understand the structure and characteristic reactions of alkenes.
Unit 16: The Human Muscular and Skeletal System
On completion of this unit you will:
- Understand anatomical terminology.
- Understand the skeletal system and locomotion.
- Understand the muscular system.
Unit 17: The Human Nutrition and the Digestive System
On completion of this unit you will:
- Understand the structure and functions of the organs of the digestive system
- Understand nutrients and their sources
- Understand the components of a healthy diet and the consequences of an unhealthy diet
Unit 18: Chemical Change
On completion of this unit you will:
- Know how to measure the concentrations of solutions.
- Understand energy changes during chemical reactions.
- Understand factors influencing rates of chemical reactions.
- Understand the concept of chemical equilibrium
Unit 19: Cell Metabolism
On completion of this unit you will:
- Understand the glycolytic pathway and fermentation of sugar to yield alcohol.
- Understand the tricarboxylic acid cycle.
- Understand the dark reactions in photosynthesis.
- Understand the biochemical basis of generating adenosine triphosphate in subcellular organelles.
You can get started on your Access to Higher Education Diploma right away, but when you come to apply to university, you will need to have a GCSE in Maths and English (or equivalent) at grade C/4 or above. These qualifications commonly feature on the entry requirements list for most degrees.
Should you not have these qualifications when you start your Access to HE Diploma, you can work towards them at the same time, which is something many of our learners do successfully to get fully prepared for their university degrees ahead of applying.
It must be reiterated that each university will set its own admission criteria. So, you must check with your desired institution if your Access to HE Diploma and other qualifications will be accepted.
In many cases, to get started on a degree you will need:
- A certain number of credits passed with a merit or a distinction grade
- A face-to-face interview at the university
- Literacy and numeracy assessments provided by the university
- Course-related work placements or work experience
- GCSE Grade C/4 or above in Maths and English (or equivalent Level 2 such as Functional Skills/Key Skills, etc.)
It’s up to you to check that your Access to HE Diploma will be accepted as part of these entry requirements for your chosen degree. learndirect is not responsible if completing this Access to HE Diploma doesn’t secure you a position with a higher education institution.
*Please note, this course is eligible for UK residents only.
The assignments for this course aim to prepare you for your next step in higher education while providing the number of credits necessary to achieve your qualification. At the end of each unit of study, you will need to complete an assignment which your tutor will then mark and provide you with feedback and a grade to help you to progress.
To successfully achieve this Access to HE Diploma you will need 60 credits in total. 45 credits are taken from graded units which are focused on the academic subject areas included in the course. The remaining 15 credits are from ungraded units included to help improve your academic writing and study skills.
As part of your programme, you will also receive help as well as guidance with your university application and the research you need to do to get the most out of your diploma.
Each unit of this course has been carefully selected to match the selection requirements of most universities with a science profile. The course also helps you prepare for university level study, as the work and assessments allow you to get familiar with academic reports and essay writing.
Open College Network West Midlands
On successful completion of the Open College Network West Midlands Access to Higher Education Diploma (Science) you will receive a QAA recognised Access to HE Diploma at level 3 (QAA ref: 40008848). This course has also been assigned 60 credits.
Open College Network West Midlands are a national Awarding Organisation, regulated by Ofqual, the Quality Assurance Agency for Higher Education (QAA) and Qualifications Wales, to develop and award nationally recognised qualifications.
Open College Network West Midlands work in partnership with employers, training providers, colleges, universities, schools and voluntary and community organisations to offer vocational credit-based qualifications, Access to Higher Education Diplomas and quality assured Customised Accreditation that enables learners gain employment or to progress into further learning and Higher Education. They also Quality Endorse organisations internal training and skills delivery.
Career
Completing this Access to Higher Education Diploma (Science) - Biochemical Pathway and a related degree can open up a broad range of important careers to you. Allowing you to turn your inquisitive mind and thirst for knowledge into a career that can transform global healthcare.
Just some of the many bioscience-related sectors/roles you can work in with a degree and in some cases, postgraduate qualifications, include:
- Research and development in industry or within academia
- Clinical biochemistry, immunology or microbiology
- Technical areas like quality control, or a research technician
- Specialist areas like ecology or pollution control
- Bioinformatician
- Pharmacy
You may also want to consider:
- Teaching or lecturing in school, college or university
- Science communication, journalism or publishing
- Research management and administration
- Scientific sales and marketing
Further Qualifications and Prospects
The knowledge you gain in this Access to Higher Education Diploma will prepare you for a number of degrees that rely on your detailed knowledge of biology and chemistry.
Many students of this course have progressed on to degrees in:
- Biology
- Chemistry
- Biomedical Science
- Pharmacy
- Dental Hygiene and Dental Therapy
Should you pursue any of these degrees, there will be a number of postgraduate courses you can take to either enter or elevate your science-related career. These can be academic or vocational, research, taught or work-based, and can either be completed in a full or part time capacity.
The type of postgraduate study that suits you will depend entirely on your interests and the type of career you want to go into, as many science-related roles require you to have completed a Masters or PhD.
Access to Higher Education Diploma (Science) - Biochemical Pathway
This Course at a Glance
- Work in a rapidly expanding area of science
- Pursue a career that makes life-changing discoveries
- Average completion within 9-12 months
- Go to university without A Levels
- Study flexibly
- Flexible payment methods
- No exams
About your Diploma
Are you fascinated by the tests and research that goes on in laboratories? Or the major breakthroughs they lead to in health, science and industrial sectors? If you’re scientifically minded, are a keen problem solver and want a career at the forefront of innovation and change, you should consider studying biochemical science.
All life on Earth hinges on biochemical reactions and processes, making biochemistry one of the most vital areas of science. The breakthroughs made by biochemists have led to the creation of essential diagnostic tools, therapies and medicines that keep people alive and healthy each day. As such, the impact biochemical research has on the world is astounding.
By studying an Access to Higher Education Diploma (Science) - Biochemical Pathway, you can get the skills and qualifications to pursue a career that makes a real difference to people’s lives. Equivalent to three A Levels, it allows you to go to university, and with such a detailed focus on this important area of scientific study, you can progress onto an array of fascinating degree topics.
Throughout this course, you will study topics that cover the typical scope of biochemistry. This includes the atomic structure, the Periodic Table, human nutrition, cell division and heredity
Gaining this knowledge can be a great stepping stone to careers in biomedical science. You could become anything from a Pharmacologist or even a Forensic Scientist!
Getting Started
learndirect is the leading UK online course provider. This Access to Higher Education Diploma (Science) - Biochemical Pathway is a Level 3 nationally recognised qualification that is regulated by the Quality Assurance Agency for Higher Education (QAA).
As it’s studied entirely online, the flexibility of the course enables you to work towards your science-related future outside of your current commitments. Meaning there is no issue if you have to juggle a full-time job or childcare with your studies.
When studying your Access to Higher Education Diploma, you will have up to two years to complete the course. Though, the freedom to move through the modules at your pace sees most of our students complete their Access to HE Diploma within 9-12 months.
You will be provided with an Individual Learning Plan that outlines the submission deadlines for your assignments to keep you on track throughout your studies.
*Please note, entry requirements differ between universities, so it’s always best to check with your chosen institution that your qualification will be accepted before enrolling on a course.
Modules
Unit 1: Preparing To Study
On completion of this unit you will:
- Understand how study is organised and planned
- Understand how to apply theories of learning in relation to personal approaches to learning
- Understand a range of constraints upon study
- Understand the importance of assessment feedback.
Unit 2: Academic Writing Skills
On completion of this unit you will:
- Be able to write with relevance in responding to an academic task.
- Know how to interpret and discuss concepts and debates in responding to a set, academic writing task.
- Be able to summarise for academic purposes, selecting key points, information or central ideas.
- Understand the role of reference, allusion and paraphrase to avoid plagiarism.
Unit 3: Preparing a Written Assignment
On completion of this unit you will:
- Understand how to use key information sources.
- Understand why sources are acknowledged and referenced.
- Understand a range of reading strategies.
- Understand note-making methods.
- Understand how to plan draft and produce a written assignment.
Unit 4: Cell Biology
On completion of this unit you will:
- Understand the cell.
- Understand cellular metabolism.
- Understand how cells grow and divide.
Unit 5: Atomic Structure
On completion of this unit you will:
- Understand protons, neutrons and electrons in terms of their relative charges and masses.
- Understand the distribution of protons, neutrons and electrons in an atom given its Atomic number and Mass number, including some isotopes.
- Understand the number and relative energies of the s, p and d orbitals for the principal quantum numbers and know the shapes of s, p and d orbitals.
- Understand how ionisation energies of elements relate to reactivity.
- Understand the position of elements within the periodic table from ionisation energy data.
Unit 6: Cell Division & Heredity
On completion of this unit you will:
- Demonstrate a knowledge of cell division.
- Demonstrate an understanding of heredity and genetic variation.
Unit 7: Periodic Table
On completion of this unit you will:
- Understand the periodic table.
- Understand periodicity in the elements of period 3.
- Understand ionisation energy.
- Understand oxidation and reduction.
- Understand reactions of the Group 2 metals.
- Understand the group 7 elements.
Unit 8: Human Reproduction, Growth & Development
On completion of this unit you will:
- Understand the structure and function of the human reproductive system
- Understand how hormones regulate the reproductive tract throughout life
- Understand the sequence of events from conception to puberty
Unit 9: Atomic Structure & Bonding
On completion of this unit you will:
- Understand the structure of the atom.
- Understand electronic structures.
- Understand the formation of ionic bonds
Unit 10: The Human Endocrine & Nervous System
On completion of this unit you will:
- Understand the anatomy and organisation of the nervous system and how it co- ordinates the body.
- Understand the structure and function of nerve cells and other cells in the nervous system.
- Understand how the endocrine system co-ordinates body functions.
- Understand homeostasis.
Unit 11: The Brain & Nervous System
On completion of this unit you will:
- Understand the major sub divisions of the nervous system.
- Understand the structure and function of glial cells and neurons.
Unit 12: Chemical Bonding and Structure
On completion of this unit you will:
- Understand the nature of organic chemicals
Unit 13: Human Immunity
On completion of this unit you will:
- Understand non-specific defences against disease.
- Understand specific immunity and the immune response.
- Understand the biology of vaccination.
- Understand how immune sensitivity may cause ill-health.
Unit 14: Human Disease and Prevention
On completion of this unit you will:
- Understand the categories and causes of disease using infectious disease to illustrate your answer
- Understand the epidermiology of commonly occurring diseases/conditions
- Understand preventative measures for a chosen disease or condition
Unit 15: Hydrocarbons
On completion of this unit you will:
- Understand the importance of organic compounds.
- Understand the structure and characteristic reactions of alkanes.
- Understand the structure and characteristic reactions of alkenes.
Unit 16: The Human Muscular and Skeletal System
On completion of this unit you will:
- Understand anatomical terminology.
- Understand the skeletal system and locomotion.
- Understand the muscular system.
Unit 17: The Human Nutrition and the Digestive System
On completion of this unit you will:
- Understand the structure and functions of the organs of the digestive system
- Understand nutrients and their sources
- Understand the components of a healthy diet and the consequences of an unhealthy diet
Unit 18: Chemical Change
On completion of this unit you will:
- Know how to measure the concentrations of solutions.
- Understand energy changes during chemical reactions.
- Understand factors influencing rates of chemical reactions.
- Understand the concept of chemical equilibrium
Unit 19: Cell Metabolism
On completion of this unit you will:
- Understand the glycolytic pathway and fermentation of sugar to yield alcohol.
- Understand the tricarboxylic acid cycle.
- Understand the dark reactions in photosynthesis.
- Understand the biochemical basis of generating adenosine triphosphate in subcellular organelles.
Requirements
You can get started on your Access to Higher Education Diploma right away, but when you come to apply to university, you will need to have a GCSE in Maths and English (or equivalent) at grade C/4 or above. These qualifications commonly feature on the entry requirements list for most degrees.
Should you not have these qualifications when you start your Access to HE Diploma, you can work towards them at the same time, which is something many of our learners do successfully to get fully prepared for their university degrees ahead of applying.
It must be reiterated that each university will set its own admission criteria. So, you must check with your desired institution if your Access to HE Diploma and other qualifications will be accepted.
In many cases, to get started on a degree you will need:
- A certain number of credits passed with a merit or a distinction grade
- A face-to-face interview at the university
- Literacy and numeracy assessments provided by the university
- Course-related work placements or work experience
- GCSE Grade C/4 or above in Maths and English (or equivalent Level 2 such as Functional Skills/Key Skills, etc.)
It’s up to you to check that your Access to HE Diploma will be accepted as part of these entry requirements for your chosen degree. learndirect is not responsible if completing this Access to HE Diploma doesn’t secure you a position with a higher education institution.
*Please note, this course is eligible for UK residents only.
Assessment
The assignments for this course aim to prepare you for your next step in higher education while providing the number of credits necessary to achieve your qualification. At the end of each unit of study, you will need to complete an assignment which your tutor will then mark and provide you with feedback and a grade to help you to progress.
To successfully achieve this Access to HE Diploma you will need 60 credits in total. 45 credits are taken from graded units which are focused on the academic subject areas included in the course. The remaining 15 credits are from ungraded units included to help improve your academic writing and study skills.
As part of your programme, you will also receive help as well as guidance with your university application and the research you need to do to get the most out of your diploma.
Each unit of this course has been carefully selected to match the selection requirements of most universities with a science profile. The course also helps you prepare for university level study, as the work and assessments allow you to get familiar with academic reports and essay writing.
Qualifications
Open College Network West Midlands
On successful completion of the Open College Network West Midlands Access to Higher Education Diploma (Science) you will receive a QAA recognised Access to HE Diploma at level 3 (QAA ref: 40008848). This course has also been assigned 60 credits.
Open College Network West Midlands are a national Awarding Organisation, regulated by Ofqual, the Quality Assurance Agency for Higher Education (QAA) and Qualifications Wales, to develop and award nationally recognised qualifications.
Open College Network West Midlands work in partnership with employers, training providers, colleges, universities, schools and voluntary and community organisations to offer vocational credit-based qualifications, Access to Higher Education Diplomas and quality assured Customised Accreditation that enables learners gain employment or to progress into further learning and Higher Education. They also Quality Endorse organisations internal training and skills delivery.
Career
Completing this Access to Higher Education Diploma (Science) - Biochemical Pathway and a related degree can open up a broad range of important careers to you. Allowing you to turn your inquisitive mind and thirst for knowledge into a career that can transform global healthcare.
Just some of the many bioscience-related sectors/roles you can work in with a degree and in some cases, postgraduate qualifications, include:
- Research and development in industry or within academia
- Clinical biochemistry, immunology or microbiology
- Technical areas like quality control, or a research technician
- Specialist areas like ecology or pollution control
- Bioinformatician
- Pharmacy
You may also want to consider:
- Teaching or lecturing in school, college or university
- Science communication, journalism or publishing
- Research management and administration
- Scientific sales and marketing
Further Qualifications and Prospects
The knowledge you gain in this Access to Higher Education Diploma will prepare you for a number of degrees that rely on your detailed knowledge of biology and chemistry.
Many students of this course have progressed on to degrees in:
- Biology
- Chemistry
- Biomedical Science
- Pharmacy
- Dental Hygiene and Dental Therapy
Should you pursue any of these degrees, there will be a number of postgraduate courses you can take to either enter or elevate your science-related career. These can be academic or vocational, research, taught or work-based, and can either be completed in a full or part time capacity.
The type of postgraduate study that suits you will depend entirely on your interests and the type of career you want to go into, as many science-related roles require you to have completed a Masters or PhD.
88%
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