I've Decided to Study an Access to HE Science Diploma – What Should I Do Next?
- PM
- Jun 29
- 4 min read
Making the decision to return to education is often the hardest part.
For many adults, the thought process can take months or even years. You might have spent a long time wondering whether you're capable of studying again, whether university is realistic, or whether you can fit learning around work and family commitments. Once you've made the decision to pursue an Access to HE Science Diploma, the next question is often:
"What do I actually do now?"
In this guide, we'll walk through the key steps to help you move from thinking about studying to actually starting your course.
Step 1: Decide What Degree You Want to Progress To
Before choosing a course, it's worth thinking about where you want the qualification to take you.
Many students use an Access to HE Science Diploma as a route into degrees such as:
Nursing
Midwifery
Paramedic Science
Physiotherapy
Occupational Therapy
Radiography
Biomedical Science
Forensic Science
Psychology
Biology
Chemistry
If possible, identify a few university courses that interest you and check their entry requirements. This will help ensure the Access course you choose is accepted by your preferred universities.
Step 2: Decide How You Want to Study
One of the biggest decisions is whether you want to study online or attend a college in person.
Face-to-Face Learning
Some students prefer attending classes because it provides structure and routine.
Advantages include:
Regular timetabled lessons
Face-to-face support from tutors
Opportunities to meet other students
Access to college facilities
Potential challenges include:
Travel costs
Fixed attendance requirements
Less flexibility around work and childcare
Online Learning
Online courses have become increasingly popular, particularly for adult learners.
Advantages include:
Study from home
Greater flexibility
Easier to fit around work and family commitments
No travel time
Potential challenges include:
Requires self-motivation
Less social interaction
Greater responsibility for managing your own study schedule
Neither option is inherently better. The right choice depends on your personal circumstances, learning preferences and commitments.
Step 3: Research Local and Online Providers
Once you've decided how you'd like to study, begin researching providers.
Look for:
Local further education colleges
Adult education centres
Accredited online learning providers
When comparing courses, consider:
Course content
Assessment methods
Study hours required
Start dates
Success rates
Student support services
Don't be afraid to attend open days or contact providers directly with questions.
Step 4: Explore Funding Options
Many adults worry that returning to education will be unaffordable.
Fortunately, financial support may be available.
Advanced Learner Loan
Many Access to HE courses are eligible for an Advanced Learner Loan.
This loan can cover the course fees and is not dependent on your income.
One of the biggest benefits is that if you complete an eligible higher education course after your Access Diploma, the remaining balance of the Advanced Learner Loan may be written off.
Because funding rules can change, it's important to check the latest information before applying.
Step 5: Investigate Childcare Support
If you have children, childcare costs may be one of your biggest concerns.
Many colleges offer support services and may be able to direct students towards:
College childcare funds
Local authority support
Learner support funds
Other financial assistance schemes
Support varies between providers, so it is worth discussing your circumstances with the college before enrolling.
Many adult learners successfully balance study and family life, but planning childcare arrangements early can reduce stress later in the year.
Step 6: Check How Studying Might Affect Your Benefits
If you currently receive benefits, it's important to understand how studying could affect your entitlement.
The impact depends on factors such as:
Which benefits you receive
Whether your course is full-time or part-time
Your personal circumstances
Any childcare responsibilities
Household income
Because every situation is different, it is advisable to seek guidance before enrolling.
Useful sources of information include:
Your local Jobcentre Plus
Citizens Advice
The benefits adviser at your chosen college
Government guidance websites
Getting advice early can help you avoid unexpected issues once your course begins.
Step 7: Prepare for Returning to Study
You do not need to become an expert in biology, chemistry and physics before your course starts.
However, spending a little time preparing can help build confidence.
You might consider:
Revisiting GCSE science concepts
Practising basic maths skills
Watching science videos online
Reading introductory science articles
Developing a simple study routine
Remember, Access courses are designed for adults returning to education. Your tutors will expect that many students have not studied for several years.
Step 8: Build Your Support Network
Returning to education can feel daunting, especially if you're balancing study with work, family and other responsibilities.
Think about who can support you throughout the year.
This might include:
Family members
Friends
Fellow students
College tutors
Online study groups
Private tutors like us!
Having people around you who understand your goals can make a huge difference when the workload becomes challenging.
Final Thoughts
Once you've decided to pursue an Access to HE Science Diploma, it's easy to feel overwhelmed by all the decisions that follow.
The key is to take things one step at a time.
Choose your career goal, research your options, explore funding, and put support systems in place before the course begins.
Most importantly, don't wait until you feel completely ready. Many successful Access students start their journey feeling nervous and uncertain.
The important thing is not having all the answers before you begin—it's being willing to take that first step.
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