Undergraduate | London

Access to Higher Education Diploma - Healthcare Professions

The Access to Higher Education Diploma (Osteopathic Sciences and Health Care) course is a one-year further education programme which leads to a nationally recognised award.

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Course Title Access to Higher Education Diploma – Healthcare Professions

Qualification Access to Higher Education Diploma - Healthcare Professions

Study Mode Part-time

Typical Offer GCSEs at grades A-C, including Mathematics and English Language

Accreditation N/A

Duration 1 year

Start Date September 2025

Location London

Overview

This course is designed specifically, but not exclusively, for students with little or no scientific background, and is ideal for those who wish to pursue a career in osteopathy or a related healthcare discipline, but aren’t yet ready to undertake a degree programme.

The course will help develop the knowledge and skills needed to continue on to study osteopathy (or related subjects) at undergraduate degree level. There is a strong emphasis on the biological and physical sciences, as well as an introduction to patient interaction and psychology. Other units include osteopathic professionalism, English, mathematics and study skills.

Course Details

The Access programme enables you to develop the knowledge and skills needed for successful study of osteopathy or a related healthcare discipline at undergraduate degree level.

Classes run on Friday evenings and Saturdays across term time with a weekend clear of study every three to four weeks.

Students who successfully complete the course can apply for the UCO School of Osteopathy’s Master of Osteopathy course.

The Access to Higher Education Diploma is also a nationally recognised qualification and may be accepted as an entry level qualification by colleges and universities throughout the UK.

The course is delivered in a manner that allows learners to work and study.

The programme is validated by LASER Learning Awards so successful students will gain a nationally recognised award which is an acceptable entry qualification in colleges and universities throughout the UK.

What You’ll Learn

There is a strong emphasis on the biological and physical sciences, as well as an introduction to sociology and psychology. Units on English, mathematics, communication and study skills ensure that you have a sound basis for further study.

List of units

Energy for Healthcare
Blood, circulation and gaseous exchange for healthcare
Cell Biology
Disease and body defence
Homeostasis for healthcare
Medical Biochemistry
Musculoskeletal system
Digestion and Liver for HC
Reproductive biology for healthcare>
Nutrition for Health and Well-being
Understanding Human Health and Disease
Chemistry for Healthcare
Physics for Healthcare
Listening Skills in the Helping Professions
LEVEL 2 English Language Skills
Practical Mathematics for Healthcare
Academic Communication Skills
Reviewing and Planning for the Future
Independent Academic Study (Professional Studies)

Standalone unit 60 credits, Level 2 and Level 3.

Why Study at HSU?

As a unique Health Sciences University, HSU has developed a wide range of educational opportunities for healthcare professionals.

Unit Breakdown

Assessment & feedback

For details of the specific tasks and assessments for each unit please contact us. You will also normally be provided with additional assessment briefs for coursework. These will indicate precisely what is required of you, how you will be graded and details of how and when the assessment is due to be submitted.

Entry Requirements

GCSEs at grades A-C, including Mathematics and English Language.

The UCO is committed to a policy of inclusion, actively seeking to widen participation and to increase opportunities for high-calibre students with the aptitude and potential to undertake a degree in osteopathy. Students from diverse ethnic and social backgrounds, UCO-leavers, mature ‘second career’ applicants and students with a range of seen and unseen disabilities are all warmly welcomed. Every application to the UCO is considered on its own merits.

Still have questions about applying?

Email Admissions

Access Course Lead and Partnerships Quality Manager

Why choose Health Sciences University

There are many benefits to studying at Health Sciences University, from our expertise and history in teaching health sciences, to our state-of-the-art facilities, on-site clinical training, and of course our central London location.

Facilities Services Be the Reason