Access to Higher Education
Access to HE Diploma (Paramedic Science)
This qualification is run over three days per week and prepares students for university degrees in paramedic science or paramedic practice.
Around one quarter of the qualification is devoted to essential study skills which will help you to prepare for university study, particularly if you have been out of education for a while. The remainder of the qualification is devoted to the study of fundamental scientific principles, with a strong focus on human biology, making it perfect for students wishing to enter careers in nursing, midwifery, paramedic science or other health care occupations.
You will receive approximately 15 hours contact per week with our small, supportive team of lecturers, including time with your Tutorial Mentor, who will support you with you university application, along with any personal issues you may have. In addition to this, we expect students to carry out an equivalent amount of personal study, for example reading around the subject, writing up notes and completing assignments.
There will also be opportunities for collaborative working with your fellow students and you will be signposted to live and virtual events in the city which will enrich your learning experience.
The Diploma is composed of 5 study strands:
Study skills Academic writing Presentation skills Numeracy Statistics
Chemistry Fundamental concepts Chemistry of drugs and medicines
Biology Genetics Infection and immunity Cellular biology and biochemistry Human systems physiology
Health: Health care communications
Mental health Exploring concepts and determinants of health
About the course
Academic writing, Presentation skills, Statistics, Fundamental concepts, Chemistry of drugs and medicines, Genetics, Infection and immunity, Cellular biology and biochemistry, Human systems physiology, Health care communications, Mental health,
This course is suitable for applicants aged 19+ and for those looking to proceed to university level study.
Students should already hold (or be in the process of obtaining):
Grade 4/C or above in GCSE English Language
Grade 4/C or above in GCSE Maths
It is also desirable for you to have some previous science education and work experience relevant to the career you wish to pursue.
If you have qualifications from outside of the UK you must establish the equivalency of these using, for instance, NARIC, and provide proof at enrolment.
For students who do not currently meet the requirements, the college offers a pre-access qualification which is a one year study programme designed to help students develop their skills and knowledge in preparation for study on an Access to HE Diploma.
Assessment will take place continuously throughout the year, on a module-by-module basis. There are approximately 35 assessments in total, these will take a variety of forms, including (but not limited to): essays, reports, presentations, posters
Many of our students go straight to university once they complete this Diploma, often studying the BSc Paramedic Science at Sheffield Hallam University.
Access to Health Science students who progress to university often choose to study subjects such as:
Physiotherapy
Nursing
Midwifery
Paramedic Science
Nutrition
Operating Department Practice
Radiography
Funding
The full cost for this course is approximately £3,384. If you are aged 19-23 and do not already have a full level 3 qualification, the qualification will be fully funded. If this does not apply, you may be eligible for an Advanced Learner Loan. Please note: all quoted fees are subject to change.
Most students fund this course by applying for a 19+ Advanced Learner Loan from the government, although it is also possible to self-fund either as a lump sum or in installments.
There are no additional fees associated with this Diploma, as all practical equipment required is provided.Students will need to supply their own stationery, and some choose to buy their own textbooks, although physical and electronic copies of key texts are available from the college's Learning Resource Centre.
Student case study
“My confidence has improved massively since studying at the college. My teachers have been amazing and been a constant support throughout my journey.”
Shauni - Access to HE in Diploma in Paramedic Science
81,168
Employed in 2026 across Sheffield
79,310
Graduate jobs predicted in Sheffield, during 2027
£33,599
Average salary
Course videos
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Key Information
Course Code
P00514
Subject Area
Health and Social Care
Campus
City Campus