Program Overview

Access to Higher Education Diploma (Medical Science with Chemistry or Physics)

Course Description

The Access to Higher Education Diploma (Medical Science with Chemistry or Physics) is a one-year Level 3 course designed for mature students (19+ years) who wish to pursue a degree in Medical Science. The course prepares students for the rigors of Level 4 study and beyond, providing a foundation in the knowledge and skills required for success in higher education.

Study Options

• Full-time: 35 weeks
• Start dates: September
• Location: Derby Campus

Course Content

The course covers the following subjects:

Biology

• Human Cell Biology
• Biochemistry
• Genetics
• Inherited Disease
• Infectious Disease
• Human Cardiac and Respiratory Systems
• Skeleton and Muscles
• Health Promotion
• Control and Regulation
• Human Reproduction

Physics

• Static, Forces and Newton’s Laws of Motion
• Waves, Light and Sound
• Electricity
• Electromagnetism
• Nuclear Properties of Material
• Medical Physics

Chemistry

• Fundamentals of Chemistry
• Haloalkanes, Alcohols, Aldehydes and Ketones
• Acids and Bases
• Reaction Kinetics
• Bonding, Crystal Structure and Shapes

Study Skills

• Progression Skills
• English for Academic Study

Teaching and Learning

A diverse range of teaching and learning activities are used across each subject, including interactive sessions, group work, and independent research. Scheduled teaching hours are led by experienced tutors who design the learning to meet the needs of the group.

Assessment

Assessments include essay writing, presentations, and academic posters, designed to apply knowledge, skills, and behaviors from sessions and wider reading/experiences.

Careers

After completing the Access course, students can progress to a degree in Medical Science, leading to varied and exciting career opportunities in the health service, such as diagnostic radiography, pharmacy, and dental therapy.

Entry Requirements

• Age: 19 years or above on 31 August 2025
• Mathematics and English Language GCSEs at grade A-C/9-4

How to Apply

Please check the application deadlines and submit your application, supporting documents, and qualifications or references. The university will review your application and contact you within 4 weeks to inform you of the outcome.

Additional Information

• The start date for this course is 8 September 2025.
• Teaching hours may vary between 9am and 9pm.
• Course content is subject to change, and updates will be confirmed at application, enrolment, and in the offer letter.