Access to Higher Education Diploma – Social Science

About This Course

The Access to Higher Education Diploma – Social Science provides an excellent opportunity to pursue a degree in various Social Science disciplines, such as Psychology, Sociology, Anthropology, Criminology, Politics and Economics. Designed for learners aspiring to work in fields like education, health, journalism, research, public services, or the voluntary sector, this course equips you with foundational knowledge and skills tailored to university entry requirements.

The diploma comprises up to 60 credits, with a structured balance between graded and ungraded credits to ensure comprehensive learning. This programme is particularly suitable for adult learners returning to education or those without traditional qualifications. With no formal exams, assessments focus on practical applications, essays and tutor-reviewed projects, ensuring you develop both academic and practical competencies.

Study from the comfort of your home while receiving robust support from expert tutors and a dedicated student services team. This course is the perfect gateway to a fulfilling career in Social Sciences.

Course Benefits

• Gain a qualification recognised by universities for degree entry in Social Sciences.
• Flexible study from home, supported by online resources and expert tutors.
• Develop essential academic and research skills for higher education.
• Learn through a blend of practical and theoretical assignments without formal exams.
• Receive UCAS application guidance, including personal statement support and university liaison.
• Progress toward careers in diverse fields such as education, health, journalism and public services.
• Supported throughout the course by a dedicated personal tutor.
• A widely recognised qualification, accepted as an alternative pathway into higher education.

Course Units

Qualification Title: Access to Higher Education Diploma – Social Science
Qualification number: 40011537
Total Credits: Up to 60
UCAS Points: Up to 144

Graded Units

Sociology:

Unit 1: Access to Health Care in Modern Britain

• Explore barriers to accessing healthcare services in the UK.
• Analyse the role of government policies in healthcare provision.
• Understand how healthcare inequalities impact different social groups.

Unit 2: Changing Beliefs in British Society

• Study the historical and cultural changes in religious and secular beliefs.
• Examine how migration and globalisation influence social attitudes.
• Understand shifts in public opinion on major societal issues.

Unit 3: Culture and Subculture in the UK

• Investigate the formation of cultural identities and social groups.
• Explore how subcultures influence mainstream society.
• Analyse media representations of different social groups.

Unit 4: Delivery of Health Care in the UK

• Understand the structure and function of the NHS and private healthcare.
• Examine healthcare funding and policy changes.
• Explore ethical considerations in healthcare delivery.

Unit 5: Sexual Health in the UK

• Learn about key sexual health policies and public health campaigns.
• Explore the prevalence and prevention of STIs.
• Examine the accessibility of sexual health services.

Unit 6: Education and Social Inequality

• Understand how education contributes to social mobility.
• Examine the impact of class, gender and ethnicity on educational outcomes.
• Analyse government policies aimed at reducing educational inequality.

Unit 7: Exploring Social Policy

• Learn how social policies are developed and implemented.
• Explore key areas of policy, such as housing, healthcare and welfare.
• Analyse the effects of social policies on different populations.

Unit 8: History of Social Policies

• Examine the evolution of social policies in Britain.
• Understand the impact of major welfare reforms.
• Analyse the role of governments in shaping social support systems.

Psychology:

Unit 9: The Nature-Nurture Debate

• Explore how genetics and environment influence human behaviour.
• Examine key psychological studies on nature vs nurture.
• Understand real-world applications of this debate in education and mental health.

Unit 10: Cognitive Development

• Study major theories of cognitive development, including Piaget and Vygotsky.
• Understand how memory, learning and problem-solving skills develop.
• Explore how cognitive development impacts education and everyday life.

Unit 11: Psychological Perspectives

• Learn about key psychological approaches, including cognitive, behavioural and psychodynamic theories.
• Understand how psychological theories apply to real-world situations.
• Analyse the strengths and limitations of different perspectives.

Unit 12: Stereotyping, Prejudice and Discrimination

• Explore the psychological roots of stereotypes and prejudice.
• Understand how discrimination affects individuals and society.
• Examine interventions to reduce bias and promote social inclusion.

Criminology:

Unit 13: Criminal Justice and Social Policy

• Explore the relationship between social policies and crime prevention.
• Understand how the criminal justice system operates.
• Examine the role of rehabilitation and punishment in modern society.

Unit 14: Social Control, Discipline and Regulation

• Study how societies enforce norms and regulate behaviour.
• Analyse the effectiveness of different social control methods.
• Explore the impact of legal and informal sanctions on individuals.

Unit 15: Sociological Explanations of Crime

• Learn about key sociological theories of crime, including strain and labelling theories.
• Examine patterns of crime and deviance in different social groups.
• Understand how social structures influence criminal behaviour.

Ungraded Units

Developmental:

Unit 16: Communication – Academic Essay Writing

• Learn how to structure and develop academic essays.
• Understand the importance of sourcing credible information.
• Develop strong referencing and citation skills.

Unit 17: ICT – Word Processing

• Gain proficiency in creating and formatting professional documents.
• Learn how to edit and proofread digital content.
• Understand how to use Microsoft Word or equivalent software effectively.

Unit 18: ICT – Using Presentation Software

• Learn to design engaging and informative presentations.
• Understand how to use PowerPoint or similar tools effectively.
• Develop skills in presenting information clearly and concisely.

Unit 19: Professional Behaviours

• Explore ethical considerations and workplace professionalism.
• Develop communication and teamwork skills.
• Understand the importance of maintaining professionalism in different sectors.

Unit 20: Study Skills – Developing Research Skills

• Learn how to conduct thorough academic research.
• Understand how to evaluate sources and use credible information.
• Develop skills in writing well-supported research-based assignments.

Assessment

The course is assessed through a series of assignments at the end of each unit, designed to test your knowledge and competence.

Assignments are graded by expert assessors, helping you develop skills essential for higher education.

All coursework is submitted online, supported by a personal tutor.

Required Knowledge

To enrol, you must be at least 17 years old and have a minimum of a grade C/4 in GCSE English Language and Maths (or equivalent Functional Skills Level 2 qualifications). You will also need access to a laptop/computer and the Internet for course completion.

It serves as a suitable entry point for individuals looking to transition into social sciences at a higher level. However, we recommend checking university entry requirements for your next course to ensure eligibility.

Awarding Body

Open Awards

Open Awards is a UK-based awarding body regulated by Ofqual. They provide a range of qualifications, including Access to Higher Education Diplomas, recognised across the UK by universities and employers.

Support

You’ll receive guidance and support from a personal, expert tutor throughout the course. Our team is here to assist you with any questions, provide detailed feedback and help you achieve your goals every step of the way.