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Access to Higher Education Diploma (Social Science and Health) - Biology Pathway
- SALE Savings End Midnight Tuesday 14th May
- SALE Savings End Midnight Tuesday 14th May
Access to Higher Education Diploma (Social Science and Health) - Biology Pathway
This Course at a Glance
- Explore the relationship between society and health
- Achieve an accredited qualification
- Earn the equivalent of 3 A Levels
- Get prepared for university
- 100% online learning
- No exams
About Your Diploma
If you have a keen interest in learning about our societal makeup and how medical services intertwine with it, then you may want to consider a career in social science. There are plenty of career opportunities that can come from achieving a degree related to social and healthcare, but before you get to that stage, you require certain qualifications.
The Access to Higher Education Diploma (Social Science and Health) – Biology Pathway is a regulated online course that prepares you for degree-level study. It delves into societal structure and behaviours, as well as human relationships and biological science. You will discover how poverty relates to health, take a closer look at why criminals commit the acts they do, the responsibilities of healthcare professionals and human biology.
This accredited online course provides a balanced view of biological science, social science and healthcare topics, providing you with a base of knowledge that can be applied to various careers. In addition to delivering subject-specific topics, you will also cover academic and study skills, which will prepare you for study at university.
Access to Higher Education Diplomas are widely regarded as the equivalent to 3 A Levels, so if you don’t possess A Levels, you can study this Level 3 equivalent to progress your academic path. Most universities accept Access to Higher Education Diplomas as part of their entry requirements, but please check with your chosen establishment before applying.
Getting Started
As the UK’s leading online learning provider, learndirect has helped more than 4 million students achieve their desired qualifications. When enrolling on the Access to Higher Education Diploma (Social Science and Health) – Biology Pathway, you will be issued with an Individual Learning Plan, which will outline your submission deadlines, helping you stay on track.
With the course being delivered online, you will have the flexibility to study wherever you please. The Access to Higher Education Diploma (Social Science and Health) – Biology Pathway must be completed within two years of starting it, but most learners complete the course within 9 months.
This level of flexibility means that you can study around your existing commitments, making it ideal for people with children or those who work full-time. By studying for this accredited qualification, you will be taking significant steps towards your desired career.
Modules
Unit 1: The Creation and Development of the National Health Service
On completion of this unit you will:
- Understand the creation and evolving nature of National Health Service in the UK.
- Understand how funding reforms have impacted on the National Health Service in recent years.
Unit 2: Cellular Structure and Activity
On completion of this unit you will:
- Understand cellular structure.
- Understand the processes and products of cellular metabolism.
- Understand cellular growth, division, and the impact of cancer at a cellular level.
Unit 3: Working as a Healthcare Professional
On completion of this unit you will:
- Understand the impact of change on the roles and responsibilities of a chosen health care professional.
- Understand the role of professional/regulatory bodies in the health care sector.
- Understand the multidisciplinary approach in the health care sector.
Unit 4: Models, Research and Application of Cognitive Psychology
On completion of this unit you will:
- Understand contrasting psychological perspectives and research evidence in one area of cognition.
- Be able to apply psychological research to real life.
Unit 5: Introduction to Human Reproduction
On completion of this unit you will:
- Understand the structure and function of the human reproductive systems.
- Understand how hormones regulate the reproductive system.
- Understand the development of human life from the stage of conception to birth.
Unit 6: Concepts of Health and ill Health
On completion of this unit you will:
- Understand a range of concepts and models of health.
- Understand societal influences on definitions of health and ill health and links to social inequality.
- Understand alternative approaches to healthcare.
Unit 7: Introduction to Abnormality and Psychological Disorders
On completion of this unit you will:
- Understand the challenge of defining and diagnosing mental illness.
- Understand a range of explanations for a chosen psychological disorder.
- Understand the treatment of one psychological disorder.
Unit 8: Human Digestive System and Dietary Needs
On completion of this unit you will:
- Understand the structure and functions of the human digestive system.
- Understand how to achieve a balanced diet in humans.
- Understand the importance of a balanced diet and dietary needs at different stages of the human lifespan.
Unit 9: Defining, Measuring and Explaining Poverty
On completion of this unit you will:
- Understand different definitions of poverty.
- Understand poverty measurement methods.
- Understand the extent of poverty in the UK today.
- Understand different sociological explanations of poverty.
Unit 10: The role of human nervous system and endocrine system in homeostasis
On completion of this unit you will:
- Understand how the human nervous system is structured and how it functions.
- Understand endocrine system regulation.
- Understand the role of the endocrine system and the nervous system in maintaining homeostasis in humans.
Unit 11: Studying the Brain and Nervous System
On completion of this unit you will:
- Understand the structure and function of nervous system including key areas of the brain.
- Understand the structure and function of glial cells and neurons.
Unit 12: The Classification, Use and Misuse of Drugs and Medicines
On completion of this unit you will:
- Understand the reasons for using recreational drugs.
- Understand how medicines and controlled drugs are legally classified.
- Understand the individual and societal implications of drug use.
Unit 13: Health and Disease
On completion of this unit you will:
- Understand the categories of disease and contraction of an infectious disease.
- Understand the epidemiology of a chosen disease or condition.
- Understand the preventative action available for a specific disease or condition.
Unit 14: Writing and Studying Academic Texts
On completion of this unit you will:
- Be able to write academically and with relevance.
- Be able to interpret and express ideas in a piece of academic work.
- Be able to analyse and summarise text, and appreciate the problems caused by plagiarism.
Unit 15: Planning and Writing an Assignment
On completion of this unit you will:
- Be able to select and assess appropriate source information in response to a task.
- Be able to reference sources used in a recognised style.
- Understand different reading strategies.
- Be able to take effective notes.
- Be able to plan, draft and produce a written assignment.
Unit 16: Resilience, Stress and Managing Emotions
On completion of this unit you will:
- Understand resilience and mental wellbeing including threats and strategies.
- Understand the management of emotions and feelings and the impact of stress.
Unit 17: Exploring an Introduction to Psychological Research and Approaches
On completion of this unit you will:
- Understand scientific research methods in the field of psychology.
- Understand different psychological approaches to explaining behaviour.
- Understand ethical issues connected with psychological research.
Unit 18: Exploring Theories of Crime and Deviancy
On completion of this unit you will:
- Be able explain of crime and deviance from a range of viewpoints.
- Understand the social structural theoretical basis of crime and deviance.
- Understand the media’s influence on perceptions of crime or deviance.
Entry Requirements
To study an Access to HE Diploma you must be resident in the UK and have a UK postcode.
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, case study analysis, illustrated report, journal article, experiment, portfolio, academic poster, presentation (video and audio recording), revision guide, series of questions, 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 in order to achieve the Access to Higher Education Diploma (Social Science and Health) – Biology Pathway.
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 to help 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 (Social Science and Health) – Biology Pathway, (QAA ref = 40014733), 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
By achieving an Access to Higher Education Diploma (Social Science and Health) – Biology Pathway, you will be able to progress towards a range of career avenues, depending on your interests and passions. Firstly, you will need to study a degree that is related to biological sciences, social science, or health, such as:
- Social Science
- Speech & Language Therapy
- Counselling
- Criminology & Policing
- Food Science and Nutrition
With a degree, you can apply for and pursue various roles, and you will be eligible to work in multiple sectors. Whether you are keen to work in local government, the NHS, counselling, or education, studying a social science and health discipline will be hugely beneficial.
Having this expert knowledge can allow you to make significant strides in changing social policy and equality in healthcare, as well as other societal trends and issues, should you decide to pursue this path.
Further Qualifications and Prospects
Given the wide-ranging career options available, you may require additional qualifications. Many graduates opt to study a masters degree in social sciences as it gives them better standing when applying for certain roles. With a masters you could pursue the following roles:
- Psychologist
- Social Worker
- Menatl Health Nurse
- Many More
Whatever career path you choose to take, you will be able to kick-start this journey by studying an Access to Higher Education Diploma (Social Science and Health) – Biological Pathway.
Frequently Asked Questions
- SALE Savings End Midnight Tuesday 14th May
- SALE Savings End Midnight Tuesday 14th May
Access to Higher Education Diploma (Social Science and Health) - Biology Pathway
This Course at a Glance
- Explore the relationship between society and health
- Achieve an accredited qualification
- Earn the equivalent of 3 A Levels
- Get prepared for university
- 100% online learning
- No exams
About Your Diploma
If you have a keen interest in learning about our societal makeup and how medical services intertwine with it, then you may want to consider a career in social science. There are plenty of career opportunities that can come from achieving a degree related to social and healthcare, but before you get to that stage, you require certain qualifications.
The Access to Higher Education Diploma (Social Science and Health) – Biology Pathway is a regulated online course that prepares you for degree-level study. It delves into societal structure and behaviours, as well as human relationships and biological science. You will discover how poverty relates to health, take a closer look at why criminals commit the acts they do, the responsibilities of healthcare professionals and human biology.
This accredited online course provides a balanced view of biological science, social science and healthcare topics, providing you with a base of knowledge that can be applied to various careers. In addition to delivering subject-specific topics, you will also cover academic and study skills, which will prepare you for study at university.
Access to Higher Education Diplomas are widely regarded as the equivalent to 3 A Levels, so if you don’t possess A Levels, you can study this Level 3 equivalent to progress your academic path. Most universities accept Access to Higher Education Diplomas as part of their entry requirements, but please check with your chosen establishment before applying.
Getting Started
As the UK’s leading online learning provider, learndirect has helped more than 4 million students achieve their desired qualifications. When enrolling on the Access to Higher Education Diploma (Social Science and Health) – Biology Pathway, you will be issued with an Individual Learning Plan, which will outline your submission deadlines, helping you stay on track.
With the course being delivered online, you will have the flexibility to study wherever you please. The Access to Higher Education Diploma (Social Science and Health) – Biology Pathway must be completed within two years of starting it, but most learners complete the course within 9 months.
This level of flexibility means that you can study around your existing commitments, making it ideal for people with children or those who work full-time. By studying for this accredited qualification, you will be taking significant steps towards your desired career.
Modules
Unit 1: The Creation and Development of the National Health Service
On completion of this unit you will:
- Understand the creation and evolving nature of National Health Service in the UK.
- Understand how funding reforms have impacted on the National Health Service in recent years.
Unit 2: Cellular Structure and Activity
On completion of this unit you will:
- Understand cellular structure.
- Understand the processes and products of cellular metabolism.
- Understand cellular growth, division, and the impact of cancer at a cellular level.
Unit 3: Working as a Healthcare Professional
On completion of this unit you will:
- Understand the impact of change on the roles and responsibilities of a chosen health care professional.
- Understand the role of professional/regulatory bodies in the health care sector.
- Understand the multidisciplinary approach in the health care sector.
Unit 4: Models, Research and Application of Cognitive Psychology
On completion of this unit you will:
- Understand contrasting psychological perspectives and research evidence in one area of cognition.
- Be able to apply psychological research to real life.
Unit 5: Introduction to Human Reproduction
On completion of this unit you will:
- Understand the structure and function of the human reproductive systems.
- Understand how hormones regulate the reproductive system.
- Understand the development of human life from the stage of conception to birth.
Unit 6: Concepts of Health and ill Health
On completion of this unit you will:
- Understand a range of concepts and models of health.
- Understand societal influences on definitions of health and ill health and links to social inequality.
- Understand alternative approaches to healthcare.
Unit 7: Introduction to Abnormality and Psychological Disorders
On completion of this unit you will:
- Understand the challenge of defining and diagnosing mental illness.
- Understand a range of explanations for a chosen psychological disorder.
- Understand the treatment of one psychological disorder.
Unit 8: Human Digestive System and Dietary Needs
On completion of this unit you will:
- Understand the structure and functions of the human digestive system.
- Understand how to achieve a balanced diet in humans.
- Understand the importance of a balanced diet and dietary needs at different stages of the human lifespan.
Unit 9: Defining, Measuring and Explaining Poverty
On completion of this unit you will:
- Understand different definitions of poverty.
- Understand poverty measurement methods.
- Understand the extent of poverty in the UK today.
- Understand different sociological explanations of poverty.
Unit 10: The role of human nervous system and endocrine system in homeostasis
On completion of this unit you will:
- Understand how the human nervous system is structured and how it functions.
- Understand endocrine system regulation.
- Understand the role of the endocrine system and the nervous system in maintaining homeostasis in humans.
Unit 11: Studying the Brain and Nervous System
On completion of this unit you will:
- Understand the structure and function of nervous system including key areas of the brain.
- Understand the structure and function of glial cells and neurons.
Unit 12: The Classification, Use and Misuse of Drugs and Medicines
On completion of this unit you will:
- Understand the reasons for using recreational drugs.
- Understand how medicines and controlled drugs are legally classified.
- Understand the individual and societal implications of drug use.
Unit 13: Health and Disease
On completion of this unit you will:
- Understand the categories of disease and contraction of an infectious disease.
- Understand the epidemiology of a chosen disease or condition.
- Understand the preventative action available for a specific disease or condition.
Unit 14: Writing and Studying Academic Texts
On completion of this unit you will:
- Be able to write academically and with relevance.
- Be able to interpret and express ideas in a piece of academic work.
- Be able to analyse and summarise text, and appreciate the problems caused by plagiarism.
Unit 15: Planning and Writing an Assignment
On completion of this unit you will:
- Be able to select and assess appropriate source information in response to a task.
- Be able to reference sources used in a recognised style.
- Understand different reading strategies.
- Be able to take effective notes.
- Be able to plan, draft and produce a written assignment.
Unit 16: Resilience, Stress and Managing Emotions
On completion of this unit you will:
- Understand resilience and mental wellbeing including threats and strategies.
- Understand the management of emotions and feelings and the impact of stress.
Unit 17: Exploring an Introduction to Psychological Research and Approaches
On completion of this unit you will:
- Understand scientific research methods in the field of psychology.
- Understand different psychological approaches to explaining behaviour.
- Understand ethical issues connected with psychological research.
Unit 18: Exploring Theories of Crime and Deviancy
On completion of this unit you will:
- Be able explain of crime and deviance from a range of viewpoints.
- Understand the social structural theoretical basis of crime and deviance.
- Understand the media’s influence on perceptions of crime or deviance.
Entry Requirements
To study an Access to HE Diploma you must be resident in the UK and have a UK postcode.
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, case study analysis, illustrated report, journal article, experiment, portfolio, academic poster, presentation (video and audio recording), revision guide, series of questions, 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 in order to achieve the Access to Higher Education Diploma (Social Science and Health) – Biology Pathway.
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 to help 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 (Social Science and Health) – Biology Pathway, (QAA ref = 40014733), 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
By achieving an Access to Higher Education Diploma (Social Science and Health) – Biology Pathway, you will be able to progress towards a range of career avenues, depending on your interests and passions. Firstly, you will need to study a degree that is related to biological sciences, social science, or health, such as:
- Social Science
- Speech & Language Therapy
- Counselling
- Criminology & Policing
- Food Science and Nutrition
With a degree, you can apply for and pursue various roles, and you will be eligible to work in multiple sectors. Whether you are keen to work in local government, the NHS, counselling, or education, studying a social science and health discipline will be hugely beneficial.
Having this expert knowledge can allow you to make significant strides in changing social policy and equality in healthcare, as well as other societal trends and issues, should you decide to pursue this path.
Further Qualifications and Prospects
Given the wide-ranging career options available, you may require additional qualifications. Many graduates opt to study a masters degree in social sciences as it gives them better standing when applying for certain roles. With a masters you could pursue the following roles:
- Psychologist
- Social Worker
- Menatl Health Nurse
- Many More
Whatever career path you choose to take, you will be able to kick-start this journey by studying an Access to Higher Education Diploma (Social Science and Health) – Biological Pathway.
Frequently Asked Questions
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