What Can I Do with an Access to HE Diploma?

Attending a Business and Management course

Are you wanting to go to university but don’t have the right qualifications? Access to HE courses are the perfect pathway to get into uni and pursue your dream course subject. 

Just like A-Levels and T Levels, Access to HE Diplomas open a wide range of doors and possibilities! If you’re aged 19+, there's no need to do A – or T - Levels to enter uni, you just need an Access to HE course. 

In fact, students who finish an Access to HE Diploma often get the same grades in university as students who have other qualifications. For example, about 25% of Access to HE students end up achieving a first-class degree, similar to the 26% of students who have other Level 3 qualifications.

If you want to find out more about what you can do with an Access to HE Diploma, we’ll discuss it all in this blog. 

What doors can an Access to HE diploma open?

An Access to Higher Education (HE) diploma can be a powerful stepping stone towards a successful education and professional journey. By successfully completing an Access to HE Diploma, you can unlock the route to higher education

This can lead to pursuing a foundation degree, a full degree, or even a postgraduate degree. The best part is, the knowledge and skills gained through an Access to HE Diploma can equip you to enter the career field of your dreams, opening up a world of possibilities.

What are the career possibilities with an Access to HE diploma?

With a wide range of courses available at UCEN Manchester, you can tailor your studies to align with your desired career path. Upon successfully completing an Access to HE Diploma, you can progress to a degree-level qualification and enter your chosen industry. 

While your degree may be focused on a specific subject, the flexibility of the Access to HE Diploma allows you to explore other options, provided you meet the necessary UCAS points requirements. 

However, it's essential to research the specific entry requirements for your desired university course beforehand, as some courses may have subject-specific prerequisites. If you’re confused, speak to one of our team members who will be happy to assist you choosing the right Access to HE course for your career goals!

Here are the Access to HE subjects we offer at UCEN Manchester:

  • Business
  • Combined & Medical Science
  • Computing and Digital Technology
  • Engineering
  • English, Writing and Media
  • Health and Physiotherapy
  • History and Archaeology
  • Humanities
  • Law, Politics and Crime
  • Medicine
  • Nursing and Midwifery
  • Psychology and Mental Health
  • Social and Community Work
  • Social Science
  • Teaching Professions
  • Veterinary Science & Zoology

"I always dreamed of becoming a dentist, but my A-level grades weren't high enough to get onto the uni course I wanted. I felt like my chances were over on results day, but then I discovered Access to HE. It was the perfect solution. The course gave me the academic foundation I needed and boosted my confidence. Now I'm studying dentistry at my dream university and I'm well on my way to achieving my goals." - Bilal, UCEN Manchester Graduate

What if I don’t want to study for a degree after the Access to HE course?

Even if you don't pursue a degree after completing the course, an Access to HE qualification itself can be a valuable asset. As a Level 3 qualification, it demonstrates your academic abilities and can significantly enhance your CV. 

This can help you secure entry-level positions in your chosen industry, providing you with valuable experience and opportunities for career advancement. 

And if you don’t want to do anything with your qualification after, that's okay too! Many people find fulfilment in simply learning. 

Using Access to HE courses to change your career

Regardless of age, if you lack the necessary qualifications to pursue a degree, these courses can provide you with the foundation you need. 

By completing an Access to HE Diploma, you can acquire the academic skills and knowledge required to transition into a new career field. This makes it an excellent option for individuals looking to reinvent themselves and embark on a fresh professional journey.

"I always wanted to work in healthcare, but I didn't have the right qualifications. Access to HE gave me the chance to prove myself and get the education I needed. Now I'm a registered nurse and I couldn't be happier!" - Emma, UCEN Manchester Graduate

Where to study an Access to HE course?

Are you looking to kickstart your academic journey and pursue your career goals? Look no further than UCEN Manchester, the region's leading provider of Access to HE courses

With a wide range of subjects available, we offer the perfect course to help you achieve your aspirations.

Our expert tutors are dedicated to providing you with the support and guidance you need to succeed. Benefit from personalised instruction, small class sizes, and a supportive learning environment.


Choose UCEN Manchester and apply today.