You need to apply early for this course.
This broad-based course will provide a sound foundation to study on a wide range of science-based degrees, particularly those relating to health care. This course will give you an excellent academic foundation for Higher Education and a range of practical laboratory skills.
No formal qualifications or experience are needed. A key part of this process is to determine that you are working at the right level and have the necessary literacy and numeracy skills to cope with the programme. As part of this process you will do a short written exercise and on line assessments to check you are at the right level to start the course. Advice can be given about alternative ways forward if necessary. For acceptance on to the Access programme you will need to convince us that you have the determination to succeed and the academic skills to be able to cope with the work. It should be appreciated that, although formal entry qualifications are not required, the course is as rigorous and demanding as an A-Level course in preparing students for higher education.
This course is built up from a series of short units encompassing a range of different sciences. These include Biology, Chemistry, Physiology and Health.
You will also study Study Skills and produce a research essay
Assessment is continuous and may take the form of exams, presentations, essays and reports.
The course has an excellent pass rate and a good success rate in placing people into HE. Many students choose to continue their studies locally but Access students also move to other areas of the country. The Access qualification offered at City College is validated by CAVA and as such is recognised by other Higher Education institutions.
You may use your qualification to gain employment in a scientific environment such as a medical laboratory, or in a health related profession such as nursing.
Access courses are designed specifically for students who wish to return to education. They provide a flexible alternative to courses such as A Level and are nationally recognised, through the Quality Assurance Agency for Higher Education. So if you enjoy independent learning and can show enthusiasm and commitment, this could be a perfect choice for you. This pathway has been developed specifically to suit the needs of those wanting to move onto a degree in a health-related area.
The course does not assume any previous knowledge of the science subjects that are covered.
The course is made up of the following subjects - Biology, Physiology, Chemistry, Health Studies, General Science, Study Skills and a Dissertation.
Biology covers the structure and function of the cell; genetics; biochemistry;growth and development and evolution. Some aspects of Biology, for example, the actions of selected organ systems, are covered in more detail in the Physiology unit.
Chemistry involves learning about the basic concepts of the nature of matter and how to manipulate matter in the modern world. This is taught from a strongly practical angle and complements the biology units.
Experimental Methods covers a ramge of applied statistical and data handling techyniques to support the science units in the course. General Science provides support for the skills needed in science. It also allows for reflection on the nature of the scientific method and the status of scientific knowledge.
Finally in Health Studies you will investigate the nature of diseases and discuss their management and treatment.
The Dissertation will allow you to develop your interest in any of these areas.
Students who do not have level 2 qualifications in English and Maths will be encouraged to study Adult Literacy and Adult Numeracy at level 2 as part of their Access course.
Please contact the Advice Shop for details of costs and start dates.
Please note that although the information given is believed to be correct at the time of publication, course information, costs where applicable and attendance details may change.
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