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Access to HE Diploma (Medicine)

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Key Details

Levels

Level 3

FT / PT

PT

Location

Lowestoft

Duration

1 year

This course will support you if you are interested in pursuing a career as a doctor of medicine. It is for those who seek a route into medicine having either already achieved academically in other areas or who are seeking to make a greater contribution in this discipline.

You will need to be familiar with and have experience of the National Health Service (NHS) and for those that don't, you will need to gain experience in your pre-access period.

This course has been developed to meet the needs of local target groups and the requirements of degree provision at local medical schools.

The course unit structure will equip you well for the demands of your intended progression route. It will ensure that you are trained with science-based knowledge and skills alongside more general academic skills to facilitate a smooth progression to higher education.

Course Information


You will need to have achieved at least GCSE Grade 6 (B) or higher in English, maths and double science (66/BB), plus at least two more at Grade 4 (C) or above.

This course is subject to specific entry criteria based on the individual.


Assessment throughout the course will include a variety of methods designed to develop and demonstrate your scientific knowledge, academic skills and readiness for higher education. You will complete written assignments, research tasks, practical activities, presentations and other forms of assessment that reflect the demands of medical degree-level study. You will receive regular feedback and support to help you develop your skills, build confidence and prepare for progression into medicine and related higher education pathways.


Successful completion of this course can provide a pathway to higher education, particularly for students aiming to progress to medicine and other healthcare-related degrees. The course has been designed to support progression to medical schools and degree programmes by developing the scientific understanding, academic skills and personal qualities required for further study.

Potential progression routes include degrees such as Medicine (MBBS/MBChB), Biomedical Sciences, Pharmacy, Dentistry, Nursing, Physician Associate Studies, Healthcare Sciences and other health-related disciplines. Students will also develop transferable skills that are valuable for a wide range of careers within the NHS and healthcare sector.


Throughout the course, you may study a range of units designed to develop your knowledge of science, healthcare and the skills needed for successful progression into medicine. These may include:

  • Human Biology and Physiology - exploring the structure and function of the human body and developing an understanding of key biological processes.
  • Chemistry for Health Sciences - developing knowledge of chemical principles relevant to medicine and healthcare.
  • Health and Disease - examining causes, prevention and treatment of illness and the impact of disease on individuals and communities.
  • Scientific Investigation and Research Skills - developing practical laboratory skills, data analysis and scientific report writing.
  • Academic Study Skills - building confidence in research, critical thinking, referencing and independent learning.
  • Preparation for Higher Education and Medical Careers - developing application skills, professional awareness and understanding of the expectations of medical study.

Unit titles may vary depending on awarding body requirements and course structure.


50/50

Career Pathways