Level 3 Access to HE - Allied Health Professionals

NEW FOR 2026! Thanks to our brand-new partnership with the University of Chester, successful Access to HE students are now guaranteed a place on a related degree (subject to entry requirements).

This Level 3 qualification is a one-year course, equivalent to three A Levels, specifically designed for adults aged 19 and above. It provides the essential foundation to progress to university and pursue a career in healthcare.

The Access to Higher Education Diploma in Allied Health Professionals is tailored for those without traditional qualifications who are aiming to study a healthcare-related degree at university and pursue a rewarding career in this sector.

This course not only helps refresh your study skills but also builds your confidence, empowering you to succeed in a higher education environment and take the next step toward your academic and professional goals.

DIRECT ENTRY TO UNIVERSITY! Thanks to our brand‑new partnership with the University of Chester, successful Access to HE students are now guaranteed a place on a related degree (subject to entry requirements).

This Access to HE course builds the knowledge, skills, and confidence you need to advance to degrees such as paramedic science, physiotherapy, psychology, and occupational therapy. You’ll be taught by expert, supportive tutors who will guide you through your return to study and help you achieve the qualification required for university entry.

Throughout the course, you’ll access module‑specific webinars and receive dedicated support with your personal statement and UCAS application.

This widely recognised qualification is validated and moderated by Ascentis under licence from the Quality Assurance Agency for Higher Education, ensuring credibility and quality.

On this course you will build an extensive knowledge of the human body and mind, through modules in human physiology and psychology. You will also develop your understanding of healthcare professions through the professional healthcare practice module.

In addition to this you will develop your academic skills in a supportive environment, which will allow you to make the transition to degree level. You will have access to outstanding academic and pastoral support and detailed online materials during your time with us.

You will be taught by a team of specialist teachers with extensive knowledge of their subject areas, who have considerable experience and expertise working with adult learners who have taken either a short or a long break from formal education.

Completing the Access to HE Diploma in Allied Health Professionals opens the door to a wide range of university degrees in health‑related subjects — including direct entry to a related course at the University of Chester (subject to entry requirements).

This Access to HE course can lead to rewarding careers in fields such as paramedicine, physiotherapy, psychology, operating department practice, art, drama or music therapy, occupational therapy, dietetics, orthoptics, osteopathy, podiatry, prosthetics and orthotics, diagnostic or therapeutic radiography, and speech and language therapy.

This pathway is designed to help you take your next step with confidence, whether you're returning to education or preparing for a complete career change.

Absolutely — and now more than ever! Thanks to our exciting new partnership with the University of Chester, our Access to HE students benefit from a direct progression route onto a related degree (subject to entry requirements). This means your next step into university is clearer, stronger, and more supported than ever before.

We also work closely with local health employers to shape a curriculum that reflects real industry needs. Alongside this, our strong university links give you access to inspiring educational visits, expert guest input, and dedicated support with your personal statement — all designed to help you move confidently into higher education and your future career.

You’ll be supported every step of the way. Our dedicated Wellbeing Team is always on hand to offer guidance, advice, and practical help whenever you need it. Eligible students can also take advantage of a wide range of financial support to make studying as accessible and affordable as possible.

• Learning support: https://wvr.ac.uk/college-life/learning-support
• Finance and funding support: https://wvr.ac.uk/college-life/financial-support

All adult students also have access to our online tutorial programme, Amplify, as well as personalised advice from our Careers Team, ensuring you feel confident and supported throughout your journey with us.

Choosing to study your Access to HE Diploma at Warrington & Vale Royal College means joining a supportive, ambitious community designed to help you succeed. Our expert tutors bring a wealth of industry experience, and your diploma has been carefully structured with a strong focus on science units and university‑style assessments to maximise your chances of progressing onto your chosen degree.

Thanks to our brand‑new partnership with the University of Chester, successful students now benefit from a direct progression route onto a related degree (subject to entry requirements), giving you a clear pathway into higher education. Current students consistently praise the high level of support they receive and the confidence they gain in preparing for university.

You’ll be part of a mature, motivated group of adult students, and the Access to HE team will get to know you as an individual. This means tailored information, advice and guidance, mock interviews to prepare you for university selection, and regular updates on industry developments and training opportunities via your virtual learning environment.

As an adult student, you’ll also have full access to our electronic library of online books and journals, as well as a well‑stocked physical library. We understand the importance of community, so you’ll have use of an adults‑only study and social space above the library — perfect for meeting with classmates or taking a quiet study break.

Your learning is further enhanced by our dedicated Health & Social Care Academy, home to exceptional facilities including a realistic mock hospital ward. These resources provide hands‑on experience in a professional environment, helping you build the practical skills and confidence that employers value.

Direct Entry Requirements

You will need to hold GCSE English and maths at grade C/4 or above, or equivalent.

If you hold equivalent qualifications to GCSE we strongly advise you to check university entry requirements to confirm they will accept your equivalent qualifications.

If you do not meet the entry requirements

Don’t worry - you can apply for our Level 2 Extended Diploma in Health & Social Care which will prepare you for the Level 3 Access to Higher Education course in your chosen pathway. You will also work towards achieving your level 2 (GCSE) maths or English at the same time.

19+ students studying on a level 3 qualification may be eligible to apply for an Advanced Learner Loan. 

For further information, please contact Learner Services on 01925 494 400, or at Learner.Services@wvr.ac.uk 

You will require the usual student stationery such as pens, paper, and files.