Dreaming of becoming a nurse? This is your opportunity to turn that dream into reality. Whether nursing has always been your passion or is a new calling, this intensive, 9-month programme is your fast track to a fulfilling healthcare career. Gain the skills, confidence, and knowledge you need to succeed in this rewarding profession.
The Access to Higher Education Diploma (Nursing) is an academic qualification that prepares individuals for degree-level nursing and healthcare studies. Universities across the UK recognise this qualification, which is equivalent to A-Levels, providing a pathway to nursing and related fields.
This nine-month, fully online course, awarded by Gateway Qualifications, is designed for adults aged 19 and over who wish to enter the healthcare sector. Whether considering a career change, returning to education, or lacking formal qualifications, this diploma will provide a pathway to higher education.
Upon completion, you will be prepared to pursue a nursing degree or progress into midwifery, paramedicine, and mental health specialisations.
Eligibility Criteria
Age: Applicants must be at least 19 years old at the start of the course and reside in the UK.
English Proficiency: Proficiency in written and spoken English.
GCSEs: Grades A* - C / 9-4** or Functional Skills Level 2 in English and Maths are preferred. Recognised non-UK GCSE equivalencies may also be taken into account. However, each applicant will be assessed individually.
Commitment: Applicants are required to demonstrate their commitment to the course by submitting a personal statement.
Application Process
Online Application: Complete the application form on LPC’s website.
Personal Statement: Submit a statement outlining your motivation for a career in nursing.
Interview: Attend a brief interview to assess your suitability.
Enrolment: Once accepted, you will receive guidance on how to enrol and start your studies.
The course is divided into focused, manageable units designed to build the subject knowledge and study skills needed for university-level education, the units include:
Unit
Credits
Homeostasis (GM)
3
Human Anatomy and Physiology (GM)
6
Human Reproduction and Health Related Issues (GM)
3
Introduction to Biology: Cells and Tissues (GM)
3
Research Skills for Health or Care (GM)
6
Professional Behaviours: Nursing and Health Professions (UM)
3
Numeracy in a Health Context (UM)
3
Care Principles (GO)
6
Dementia Awareness (GO)
3
Mental Health and Illness (GO)
3
Introduction to Psychology (GO)
3
Health Psychology (GO)
6
Health Inequalities (GO)
3
Preparation for Higher Education (UO)
3
Academic Writing Skills (UO)
3
Promoting Wellbeing and Building Resilience (UO)
3
GM - Graded Mandatory Units
UM - Ungraded Mandatory Units
GO - Graded Optional Units
UO - Ungraded Optional Units
Assessments
Your learning will be assessed through a variety of methods, including:
Written questions and answers
Case studies and presentations
Exams, essays, and reports
Practical demonstrations and tasks
Class discussions and debates
Key Advantages
Advanced Learner Loan: If you complete this course and then progress to a degree course, the loan you took for it will be written off.
Completely Online Delivery: Learn at your own pace and convenience, with assistance at every step of the journey.
Progression Opportunities: Upon completion, you can progress to degree programmes in Nursing (Adult, Child, Mental Health, Learning Disabilities), Midwifery, Occupational Therapy, and more.
Progression Pathways
Upon completion of the diploma, you can progress onto a range of degree programmes, including:
BSc (Hons) Nursing (Adult, Child, Mental Health, Learning Disabilities
BSc (Hons) Midwifery
BSc (Hons) Mental Health Nursing
BSc (Hons) Occupational Therapy
Degree Apprenticeships for Nursing and Trainee Nursing Associates
Funding Options
This course is eligible for funding through the Advanced Learner Loan (subject to eligibility). Alternatively, you may choose to self-fund your studies.