Days: Monday and Tuesday
Time: 09:00 – 16:45
Duration: Date: 07 Sep 2026
Duration: 1 Year
Code: ACCSSPD1KN

Course Overview

Alongside psychology, the course offers the opportunity to explore criminology, including criminal behaviour, the origins and causes of crime, perspectives on policing, and the role of the criminal justice system in contemporary society.

We have a highly skilled and experienced teaching team, and this is one of the reasons we consistently achieve success and progression to university rates that are significantly above the national average.

The course is well established and widely accepted by universities, providing UCAS tariff points equivalent to three A Levels.

Subjects/Topics Covered

The Access to HE Diploma in Psychology and Criminology is designed to prepare students for entry into a broad range of undergraduate degree programmes. The subjects covered typically include:

  • Psychology – You will explore key psychological theories and perspectives, including the causes and treatments of a range of psychological conditions, human behaviour, social influence and mental health.
  • Criminology – You will investigate criminal behaviour, the origins and causes of crime, theories of crime causation, perspectives on policing, and the ways in which society responds to crime through the criminal justice system.
  • Sociology – You will enhance your understanding of the impact of society on individuals and communities, including topics such as social inequality, crime, family structures and social policy. - Research and Referencing – You will learn about research methods used within the social sciences, including both qualitative and quantitative approaches, and develop academic referencing skills.
  • Study Skills – This module develops the communication, academic writing, critical thinking, presentation and teamwork skills required for success in higher education.

Assessment Method

The Access to HE Diploma is designed to reflect the rigor and demands of undergraduate study. It includes a range of assessment methods such as essays, reports, exams, presentations, and portfolios. The assessments will be spread throughout the year, and you will receive regular feedback to help you progress and develop your skills.

Study Time

You will study in college for 12 hours per week and complete the remainder of your studies independently. If you are prepared to work hard, this flexible course can fit around your lifestyle and existing commitments. Voluntary or paid work within related fields is recommended and can strengthen your university application.

Please note that Access courses require at least one day per week of independent study and applicants must be able to commit to that.

Progression Opportunities

This course will help you progress onto a variety of degree courses, including University Centre Weston’s:

  • Criminology and Public Services BA (Hons)
  • Counselling BSc (Hons) (please note that you will need to have completed a level 2 in Counselling in addition to Access to progress to this degree)
  • Education, Society and Childhood BSc (Hons)
  • Early Years Education BA (Hons)
  • SEND and Inclusive Practice BA (Hons)

Plus a range of degrees at universities across the country, including:

  • Social Work
  • Education
  • Psychology - Sociology
  • Business
  • History
  • Philosophy
  • Social Policy
  • Youth Justice
  • Youth Work

Entry Requirements

GSCE English Grade 4/C is mandatory. It may be possible to study GCSE maths alongside, as this will be needed for most universities, but this is dependent on the applicant’s circumstances and will be discussed at interview. We will consider equivalent qualifications, but the applicant must check that their equivalents will be accepted for entry to their chosen university.

Please note, that if you wish to progress to UWE Bristol, they will consider accepting maths units which are studied within the Access programme as equivalent to GCSE maths. This will be discussed at interview.

Additional Support

Our dedicated team of experts is on hand to provide you with tailored advice and support to help you make the right decisions about your future career and course choices. Whether you need help developing your employability skills, exploring your options, or deciding which course to take, we're here to help you achieve your goals.

Plus, as a Microsoft College, all of our students and apprentices get FREE access to LinkedIn Learning. This is an amazing online platform that offers expert-led courses to help you develop your business, technology-related, and creative skills. At Weston College, we're dedicated to helping you achieve success in your career, whatever your goals may be. So why not take that first step today and join our adult community of learners? We can't wait to help you unlock your full potential!

Financing Your Course

At Weston College, we believe that learning should be accessible to everyone. That's why we offer a range of adult courses that could be free or significantly discounted. Apply online today and our friendly team will be in touch to see how we can ensure you can enrol and get the best price for your course.

Full Fee: £3,348.00 ?

Supported Fee: £3,348.00

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