The Access to Higher Education (HE) Diploma at Tameside College is a nationally recognised Level 3 qualification designed to provide adult learners with the knowledge, skills, and confidence to progress into university or higher-level study. It is ideal for those who may not have traditional qualifications but wish to pursue careers in areas such as Nursing, Midwifery, Allied Health, Education, Law, and Criminology.
Courses are closely linked to universities and industry professionals, ensuring that your learning reflects real-world requirements. Tutors are highly experienced and supportive, with a proven track record of guiding learners into higher education.
You will also gain essential transferable skills including academic writing, research, and critical thinking, alongside tailored subject knowledge for your chosen pathway.
Applicants must hold GCSE English and Maths at grade C/4 or above. Some universities also require GCSE Science (grade C/4 or higher).
Tameside College will also accept Functional Skills Level 2 in Maths, but only for the Nursing and Social Science pathways. Please note, however, this may limit university choices.
If you do not yet have the required grades, you may be offered a conditional place if you are resitting exams in 2026. Applicants are unable to resit GCSE’s alongside the Access course, so entry grades must be in place prior to starting.
Past Tameside College Access students have progressed to universities including:
Alternatively, you can continue your studies at Tameside College with higher-level qualifications such as HTQs in Computing, Engineering, Education, and BA/BSc degrees in partnership with leading universities.
For 2025/26, fees range from £3,022 – £3,384 depending on the pathway. Financial support is available through:
We have high expectations for all our learners, so you can be challenged in your studies and stretched to new academic levels of knowledge and understanding – preparing you for your next step to university. You will receive full access to Tameside College’s learner support services, including academic, financial and wellbeing support. In return, students are expected to demonstrate commitment, professionalism and a willingness to take on feedback and develop their academic skills.
How do I apply for university? You will have support from our student services team and your personal tutor to complete your UCAS application when you start classes.
Will we get a schedule at the start of the course showing the dates for units and submission deadlines? Yes, your tutors will give you this in the first week so you can plan your year with us.
Is there any financial support available for resources, such as books and IT facilities? Yes, you can apply for a bursary through the college – more information can be found by visiting www.tameside.ac.uk.
Do I need to have experience in the field I want to progress to? No, but work experience is always good on your UCAS personal statement so we encourage it where possible.
Are the holidays the same as school holidays? We follow Tameside College’s term dates – for more information, please visit our website www.tameside.ac.uk.
When do I find out the timetable? Your timetable will be issued to you during the enrolment stage (August 2026), however all course start dates / times can be found on the course information pages via our website.
I have the grades but cannot find my certificates; what can I do? Tameside College is happy to accept results slips from your previous school/college as proof of qualification. If you are unable to get hold of a results slip, then we recommend enquiring with examination bodies for new certification to be sent to you (there would be a cost to use this service).
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