English & Humanities - Access to Higher Education - Humanities and Social Sciences Pathway

If you are interested in becoming a social worker, primary teacher, counsellor, psychologist or other professional with a degree qualification, this could be the course for you. It is a one year course designed for adults who may not have had the opportunity to do A Levels nor study for a degree qualification.

The College has close links with local universities that welcome students from this Access to HE course. Students are guided through their university applications and supported in their applications for relevant work experience.

The course is usually available as a three day a week course to allow you to continue with some part time work on the other days.

Please note that there is a very intensive workload though, and students should realise that it makes substantial demands in terms of time, commitment and study.

Attendance at all timetabled lessons is essential.

You will gain 60 credits by studying three compulsory units:

Study Skills

Social Science and Humanities Research Methods

Research Project or Dissertation

Plus, a mix of three optional units from the following list:

English Language

History

Psychology

Sociology

Assessment takes place through course assignments and examinations. Each of Level 3 unit will be graded Pass, Merit or Distinction. In addition, you will take Study Skills and Social Sciences and Humanities Research Methods units which are ungraded but you must pass them to achieve the qualification.

GCSE English Language at grade A*-C (or new grades 9 – 4)

Most universities require GCSE Maths for teacher training courses and degrees in Social Sciences and Social Work. It may be possible for you to study GCSE Maths alongside the Access programme. This will depend on an assessment of your skills before you start the course.

You will be expected to bring maturity and good organisational skills to the course. All applicants who meet the entry requirements will be invited to an interview.

The majority of students progress to a degree course.

Students have progressed to a variety of universities, including Leeds, Leeds Trinity, Huddersfield, Sheffield, Sheffield Hallam, York, Bradford, Hull and Lancaster. Many students decide to continue their studies here at Wakefield College where we offer a range of degrees, HND and HNC courses at competitive prices. To find out more ask at reception for a Higher Education brochure to find out more or visit our website.

Successful completion of the Access programme opens up a variety of exciting career options following the completion of a degree, such as social work, teaching, youth work, and counselling.