Access to Higher Education Diploma (English Studies)
- SALE Savings End Midnight Friday 29th September
- SALE Savings End Midnight Friday 29th September
Access to Higher Education Diploma (English Studies)
Your Diploma at a Glance
- Get to university without A Levels
- Achieve a nationally recognised qualification
- Study an English-related degree
- Explore poetry, short stories, and film adaptations
- 100% online
- No exams
About Your Diploma
Having a solid understanding of English and all the elements involved with the verbal and written word can lead you into an exciting career in various sectors.
Whether you want to write creatively in a professional setting or teach English in a secondary school, having a base of foundational knowledge will put you in good stead when studying at degree level.
The Access to Higher Education Diploma (English Studies) is the perfect course to study if you are keen to study a degree in English, Marketing, History, Creative Writing, or another English-related subject.
You will explore a wide range of topics, delving into the influences of language, how to analyse text, and the textural features of the written form. As part of your English Studies course, you will also become familiar with poetic techniques and how some literary texts are adapted into film.
Arguably the most famous playwright and poet was William Shakespeare, and you will get to explore his techniques and approaches whilst studying the Access to Higher Education Diploma course. In addition to subject-related topics, you will also learn study skills that will get you prepared for degree-level study.
Access to Higher Education Diplomas are designed for students who want to go to university but don’t possess the A Levels they need to meet entry requirements. This is because Access to Higher Education Diplomas are the equivalent of 3 A Levels.
Most universities accept these qualifications as alternatives to A Levels, but please check with your chosen establishment before applying. This English Studies course will help you on to a range of different degrees.
Getting Started
As soon as you enrol on the Access to Higher Education Diploma (English Studies) course, you will be issued with an Individual Learning Plan (ILP), which will outline the submission deadlines for your assignments. The purpose of the plan is to help keep you on track during your studies.
You will be given 24/7 access to all of the course materials you need via our industry-leading platform, and with the course being delivered entirely online, you can complete it from the comfort of your own home.
While you study, you will get support from our team of qualified and experienced tutors and will be able to contact our Access Support Team, who will help you throughout the duration of your course. You have two years to complete the Access to Higher Education Diploma (English Studies) course, but on average, our learners take 9 months to achieve their qualification.

Modules
Unit 1: 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 ideas and issues in responding to a set, academic writing task
- Be able to summarise for academic purposes, selecting key points, information or central ideas
Unit 2: 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 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: Language, Communication and Communities
On completion of this unit you will:
- Understand devices used in oral and written texts
- Understand factors influencing language
- Understand the process and effects of community on language
Unit 5: Study of a Novel
On completion of this unit you will:
- Understand how to respond to a novel
- Understand the use of literary techniques in the novel
- Understand the contextual aspects of the novel
Unit 6: Industrial change in Britain 1700-1850
On completion of this unit you will:
- Understand the pattern of industry and urban society c1700-1760
- Understand the causes and nature of industrial change in Britain c1760-1850
- Understand the impact of industrial change on British social, economic and political life by 1850
Unit 7: Language Acquisition
On completion of this unit you will:
- Understand the stages of development in children's language
- Understanding the contrasting views on language acquisition
Unit 8: Short Story
On completion of this unit you will:
- Understand narrative elements of the story
- Understand textual features and language
- Understand the influence of social and historical factors on the text
Unit 9: Social change in Britain 1914-1939
On completion of this unit you will:
- Understand the impact of World War 1 on British society
- Understand the social consequences of unemployment, housing and health problems during the period 1918-1939
- Understand developments in family life and leisure opportunities
Unit 10: Shakespeare
On completion of this unit you will:
- Understand the major themes of a Shakespeare play
- Understand the plot structure of the play
- Understand the processes involved in the presentation of the major characters
- Understand how language is used to create dramatic impact
- Understand the social and historical implications of the play
Unit 11: Understanding Drama
On completion of this unit you will:
- Understand how an author creates character within a drama
- Understand the structure of the plot within a drama
- Understand the part played by language in dramatic effect for the chosen drama
- Understand how a play transfers from page to stage
Unit 12: Public Health During the 18th & 19th Centuries
On completion of this unit you will:
- Understand the nature of urban development and public health during the 18th Century
- Understand the causes and effects of public health problems in the 19th Century
- Understand the nature and impact of attempts to address public health problems in the 19th Century
Unit 13: Language and Gender
On completion of this unit you will:
- Understand the features of male and female speech
- Understand theories and approaches applied to speech
Unit 14: Extended Essay
On completion of this unit you will:
- Be able to develop and plan an extended essay on a chosen topic relevant to your Diploma title
- Be able to produce an extended essay on a chosen topic relevant to your Diploma title
Unit 15: How the Poet Works
On completion of this unit you will:
- Understand the principal figures of speech
- Understand different poetic genres
- Understand metre and rhythm
- Understand the tone and mood
Unit 16: Language and Social Media
On completion of this unit you will:
- Understand how language is used in communication by social media
- Understand the impact of social media on language
Unit 17: Film Adaptations of Literary Texts
On completion of this unit you will:
- Understand the techniques used in translating a section of written narrative into film
- Be able to produce an outline storyboard and script
- Understand the opportunities presented in text for film adaptation
- Understand the relative signification processes of written and film texts
Entry Requirements
You must hold Level 2 qualifications in both English and Maths, or be working towards them alongside studying your Access to Higher Education Diploma.
University Entry Criteria
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 at university 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 is your responsibility to check that your Access to HE Diploma will be accepted as part of these entry requirements for your chosen degree. learndirect will not be held accountable if completing this Access to Higher Education Diploma doesn’t secure you a position with a higher education institution.
Minimum age restriction
Access to HE Diplomas are designed to support students to progress to university who have substantial experience of life outside of formal education which they have gained since completing compulsory schooling.
Average completion timeframe
The average time it takes our learners to complete the course is 9-12 months.
Assessment requirements
A range of assessment methodologies are used, including: academic report, essay, journal article, portfolio, presentation (video and audio recording), research report, academic writing skills tasks
Exams required
There are no exams included in the assessment of the course.
Is Membership Required?
No membership is required to enrol on this course.
Additional requirements
Learners must be actively studying for a minimum of six months before results can be ratified and certificates ordered. The six month period does not start until you have passed unit 2 of your course and you must be submitting assignments regularly (in line with the deadlines in your Individual Learning Plan) to meet this six month requirement. Certificates can only be issued once your course is paid for in full.
Certification Timeframe
You can expect to receive your certificate 12-16 weeks from your final assignment being marked and graded, depending on the time of year. You will be provided with regular updates throughout the certification process so that you are fully informed of your individual timeframes.
Course Fees
All course fees, inclusive of all payment plans including our Premium Credit Limited option, must be settled before certification can be ordered.
*You will have access to the course for 24 months.

A range of units make up this qualification, with an assignment at the end of each. You will submit your work to your tutor for marking and tailored feedback. You must acquire 60 credits in total to achieve the Access to Higher Education Diploma (English Studies).
Of these credits, 45 will be taken from graded units which focus on the academic subject areas included in the course. The remaining 15 come from ungraded units included helping you to improve your academic writing and study skills.
As part of your programme, you will also receive help as well as guidance on your university application and the research you need to do to get the most out of your diploma.
Skills & Education Group Access

On successful completion of the Access to Higher Education Diploma (English Studies), (QAA ref = 40014290), you will receive a Skills & Education Group Access, QAA recognised, Access to Higher Education Diploma at Level 3. As part of your programme, you will also receive help as well as guidance on your university application and the research you need to do to get the most out of your diploma.
An access validating agency with a strong social purpose to recognise achievement, particularly for those who have benefited least from their previous educational experiences, Skills and Education Group Access supports the needs of learners, providers, businesses and communities by enabling progression into higher education.
Career
With this qualification, you will be able to enrol on a degree that is related to English Studies, giving you a plethora of options. For example, you could enhance your existing knowledge by studying English Language or English Literature or go in a different direction and study a History or Marketing degree.
When choosing your degree, you should consider the career that you want to achieve. With English Studies knowledge, you could go on to work in many roles, such as the following:
- Content Writer
- Proofreader
- Editor
Further Qualifications and Prospects
If you want to delve into creative writing professionally, perhaps write your own novel or short story, you can develop your skillset by studying additional courses. With learndirect, you can study Crime Writing, Caption Writing, Scriptwriting and more.
For those of you who want to work as an English Teacher in a secondary school, you will need to enrol on an Initial Teacher Training (ITT) programme. Whatever career you decide to pursue, an Access to Higher Education Diploma (English Studies) will help you kickstart your career journey.
- SALE Savings End Midnight Friday 29th September
- SALE Savings End Midnight Friday 29th September
Access to Higher Education Diploma (English Studies)
Your Diploma at a Glance
- Get to university without A Levels
- Achieve a nationally recognised qualification
- Study an English-related degree
- Explore poetry, short stories, and film adaptations
- 100% online
- No exams
About Your Diploma
Having a solid understanding of English and all the elements involved with the verbal and written word can lead you into an exciting career in various sectors.
Whether you want to write creatively in a professional setting or teach English in a secondary school, having a base of foundational knowledge will put you in good stead when studying at degree level.
The Access to Higher Education Diploma (English Studies) is the perfect course to study if you are keen to study a degree in English, Marketing, History, Creative Writing, or another English-related subject.
You will explore a wide range of topics, delving into the influences of language, how to analyse text, and the textural features of the written form. As part of your English Studies course, you will also become familiar with poetic techniques and how some literary texts are adapted into film.
Arguably the most famous playwright and poet was William Shakespeare, and you will get to explore his techniques and approaches whilst studying the Access to Higher Education Diploma course. In addition to subject-related topics, you will also learn study skills that will get you prepared for degree-level study.
Access to Higher Education Diplomas are designed for students who want to go to university but don’t possess the A Levels they need to meet entry requirements. This is because Access to Higher Education Diplomas are the equivalent of 3 A Levels.
Most universities accept these qualifications as alternatives to A Levels, but please check with your chosen establishment before applying. This English Studies course will help you on to a range of different degrees.
Getting Started
As soon as you enrol on the Access to Higher Education Diploma (English Studies) course, you will be issued with an Individual Learning Plan (ILP), which will outline the submission deadlines for your assignments. The purpose of the plan is to help keep you on track during your studies.
You will be given 24/7 access to all of the course materials you need via our industry-leading platform, and with the course being delivered entirely online, you can complete it from the comfort of your own home.
While you study, you will get support from our team of qualified and experienced tutors and will be able to contact our Access Support Team, who will help you throughout the duration of your course. You have two years to complete the Access to Higher Education Diploma (English Studies) course, but on average, our learners take 9 months to achieve their qualification.
Modules
Unit 1: 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 ideas and issues in responding to a set, academic writing task
- Be able to summarise for academic purposes, selecting key points, information or central ideas
Unit 2: 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 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: Language, Communication and Communities
On completion of this unit you will:
- Understand devices used in oral and written texts
- Understand factors influencing language
- Understand the process and effects of community on language
Unit 5: Study of a Novel
On completion of this unit you will:
- Understand how to respond to a novel
- Understand the use of literary techniques in the novel
- Understand the contextual aspects of the novel
Unit 6: Industrial change in Britain 1700-1850
On completion of this unit you will:
- Understand the pattern of industry and urban society c1700-1760
- Understand the causes and nature of industrial change in Britain c1760-1850
- Understand the impact of industrial change on British social, economic and political life by 1850
Unit 7: Language Acquisition
On completion of this unit you will:
- Understand the stages of development in children's language
- Understanding the contrasting views on language acquisition
Unit 8: Short Story
On completion of this unit you will:
- Understand narrative elements of the story
- Understand textual features and language
- Understand the influence of social and historical factors on the text
Unit 9: Social change in Britain 1914-1939
On completion of this unit you will:
- Understand the impact of World War 1 on British society
- Understand the social consequences of unemployment, housing and health problems during the period 1918-1939
- Understand developments in family life and leisure opportunities
Unit 10: Shakespeare
On completion of this unit you will:
- Understand the major themes of a Shakespeare play
- Understand the plot structure of the play
- Understand the processes involved in the presentation of the major characters
- Understand how language is used to create dramatic impact
- Understand the social and historical implications of the play
Unit 11: Understanding Drama
On completion of this unit you will:
- Understand how an author creates character within a drama
- Understand the structure of the plot within a drama
- Understand the part played by language in dramatic effect for the chosen drama
- Understand how a play transfers from page to stage
Unit 12: Public Health During the 18th & 19th Centuries
On completion of this unit you will:
- Understand the nature of urban development and public health during the 18th Century
- Understand the causes and effects of public health problems in the 19th Century
- Understand the nature and impact of attempts to address public health problems in the 19th Century
Unit 13: Language and Gender
On completion of this unit you will:
- Understand the features of male and female speech
- Understand theories and approaches applied to speech
Unit 14: Extended Essay
On completion of this unit you will:
- Be able to develop and plan an extended essay on a chosen topic relevant to your Diploma title
- Be able to produce an extended essay on a chosen topic relevant to your Diploma title
Unit 15: How the Poet Works
On completion of this unit you will:
- Understand the principal figures of speech
- Understand different poetic genres
- Understand metre and rhythm
- Understand the tone and mood
Unit 16: Language and Social Media
On completion of this unit you will:
- Understand how language is used in communication by social media
- Understand the impact of social media on language
Unit 17: Film Adaptations of Literary Texts
On completion of this unit you will:
- Understand the techniques used in translating a section of written narrative into film
- Be able to produce an outline storyboard and script
- Understand the opportunities presented in text for film adaptation
- Understand the relative signification processes of written and film texts
Entry Requirements
You must hold Level 2 qualifications in both English and Maths, or be working towards them alongside studying your Access to Higher Education Diploma.
University Entry Criteria
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 at university 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 is your responsibility to check that your Access to HE Diploma will be accepted as part of these entry requirements for your chosen degree. learndirect will not be held accountable if completing this Access to Higher Education Diploma doesn’t secure you a position with a higher education institution.
Minimum age restriction
Access to HE Diplomas are designed to support students to progress to university who have substantial experience of life outside of formal education which they have gained since completing compulsory schooling.
Average completion timeframe
The average time it takes our learners to complete the course is 9-12 months.
Assessment requirements
A range of assessment methodologies are used, including: academic report, essay, journal article, portfolio, presentation (video and audio recording), research report, academic writing skills tasks
Exams required
There are no exams included in the assessment of the course.
Is Membership Required?
No membership is required to enrol on this course.
Additional requirements
Learners must be actively studying for a minimum of six months before results can be ratified and certificates ordered. The six month period does not start until you have passed unit 2 of your course and you must be submitting assignments regularly (in line with the deadlines in your Individual Learning Plan) to meet this six month requirement. Certificates can only be issued once your course is paid for in full.
Certification Timeframe
You can expect to receive your certificate 12-16 weeks from your final assignment being marked and graded, depending on the time of year. You will be provided with regular updates throughout the certification process so that you are fully informed of your individual timeframes.
Course Fees
All course fees, inclusive of all payment plans including our Premium Credit Limited option, must be settled before certification can be ordered.
*You will have access to the course for 24 months.

Assessment
A range of units make up this qualification, with an assignment at the end of each. You will submit your work to your tutor for marking and tailored feedback. You must acquire 60 credits in total to achieve the Access to Higher Education Diploma (English Studies).
Of these credits, 45 will be taken from graded units which focus on the academic subject areas included in the course. The remaining 15 come from ungraded units included helping you to improve your academic writing and study skills.
As part of your programme, you will also receive help as well as guidance on your university application and the research you need to do to get the most out of your diploma.
Qualifications
Skills & Education Group Access

On successful completion of the Access to Higher Education Diploma (English Studies), (QAA ref = 40014290), you will receive a Skills & Education Group Access, QAA recognised, Access to Higher Education Diploma at Level 3. As part of your programme, you will also receive help as well as guidance on your university application and the research you need to do to get the most out of your diploma.
An access validating agency with a strong social purpose to recognise achievement, particularly for those who have benefited least from their previous educational experiences, Skills and Education Group Access supports the needs of learners, providers, businesses and communities by enabling progression into higher education.
Career
With this qualification, you will be able to enrol on a degree that is related to English Studies, giving you a plethora of options. For example, you could enhance your existing knowledge by studying English Language or English Literature or go in a different direction and study a History or Marketing degree.
When choosing your degree, you should consider the career that you want to achieve. With English Studies knowledge, you could go on to work in many roles, such as the following:
- Content Writer
- Proofreader
- Editor
Further Qualifications and Prospects
If you want to delve into creative writing professionally, perhaps write your own novel or short story, you can develop your skillset by studying additional courses. With learndirect, you can study Crime Writing, Caption Writing, Scriptwriting and more.
For those of you who want to work as an English Teacher in a secondary school, you will need to enrol on an Initial Teacher Training (ITT) programme. Whatever career you decide to pursue, an Access to Higher Education Diploma (English Studies) will help you kickstart your career journey.

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