Access to Humanities and Social Sciences – Humanities Pathway
88%
Access to Humanities and Social Sciences – Humanities Pathway
Your Course at a Glance
- Go to university without A-Levels
- Pursue a degree in sociology, psychology, and more
- Get prepared for degree-level study
- Study online from the comfort of your own home
- Tutor support
- No exams
About Your Diploma
For anyone keen to pursue a degree in sociology, psychology, history, or other subjects related to social sciences or humanities, gaining foundational knowledge will put you in a strong position ahead of your university studies.
The Access to Humanities and Social Sciences – Humanities Pathway is a Level 3 qualification that not only provides you with essential knowledge but is the equivalent of 3 A-Levels. This means that if you don’t possess traditional qualifications to get into university, then an Access to Higher Education Diploma is a solid alternative.
During your studies, you will explore the intricacies of human behaviour and mental processes, gain insights into significant historical events and their societal impacts, and enhance your literary analysis skills through the study of classic and contemporary works.
The course also offers critical perspectives on societal issues, governance, justice, and ethical considerations, while providing a vital understanding of contemporary socio-economic challenges. This pathway not only broadens your knowledge but also cultivates the analytical and critical thinking skills essential for higher education and beyond.
Getting Started
To help keep you on track with your studies, you will be given an Individual Learning Plan (ILP), which will detail the submission deadlines of your assignments, creating a clear schedule for you to follow. The course is delivered entirely online, so you can learn from the comfort of your own home.
You have a level of freedom that does not come with classroom learning, and while there are deadlines to meet, you are able to fit your study time around your existing commitments. As soon as you enrol on the course, you will be given instant access to all the course materials you need.
Our student portal has everything neatly organised for you in one place, and you will benefit from the expertise of dedicated tutors and our Access Support Team.
Unlike A Levels, in which you need to study for around two years to achieve the qualifications, you can gain your Access to Higher Education Diploma in less than a year! When you enrol, you have two years to complete the course, but learndirect students take 9 months, on average, to achieve their qualification.
Modules
Unit 1: Academic Writing Skills
Upon successful completion of this module, you will:
- Be able to structure a written response
- Be able to develop a structured response to a plan
- Be able to present the response appropriately for audience and purpose
- Understand how to apply academic writing principles to own work
Unit 2: Reading and Note Making
Upon successful completion of this module, you will:
- Understand a range of reading strategies
- Understand the use of language in terms of the purpose and context of a range of texts
- Be able to use methods for developing notes from a range of sources
Unit 3: Perspectives in Psychology
Upon successful completion of this module, you will:
- Understand different psychological perspectives
- Understand the differences between alternative psychological perspectives
- Understand the application of psychological perspectives to contemporary issues in psychology
Unit 4: Crime and Society
Upon successful completion of this module, you will:
- Understand crime and deviance
- Understand crime statistics
- Understand theoretical explanations of crime
- Understand social and cultural patterns of crime and criminality
Unit 5: Industrialisation in Britain
Upon successful completion of this module, you will:
- Understand the conditions which encouraged industrialisation in Britain
- Understand perspectives on the causes of industrialisation
- Understand the effects of industrialisation on the nature of industrial work practices
Unit 6: Literature: Shakespeare
Upon successful completion of this module, you will:
- Understand the interpretative nature of text and performance
- Be able to discuss text using relevant literary terminology
- Understand theatrical conventions
- Understand the significance of cultural, social, and historical influences on both producers and audiences
Unit 7: Biopsychology: Behaviour and the Brain
Upon successful completion of this module, you will:
- Understand the concept of localisation of function
- Understand the strengths and weaknesses of methods of investigating the relationship between the brain and behaviour
- Understand the interaction between the brain and behaviour
Unit 8: Social and Economic Change in 19th Century Britain
Upon successful completion of this module, you will:
- Understand agricultural change and the development of industrialisation in 19th century Britain
- Understand the causes and effects of rapid urban growth in the 19th century Britain
- Understand the development of social and political protect in 19th century Britain
Unit 9: Analysing Short Stories
Upon successful completion of this module, you will:
- Understand the skills needed to analyse short stories
- Understand the significance of context in short stories
- Understand how literary criticism can be used to develop a response to short stories
Unit 10: Biopsychology: Behaviour and Drugs
Upon successful completion of this module, you will:
- Understand how neurotransmitters in the brain control behaviour
- Understand the action of drugs on synaptic transmission
- Understand how psychoactive drugs change behaviour
- Understand the role of serotonin antagonists and reuptake inhibitors in the treatment of disorders
Unit 11: Current Issues in Criminology
Upon successful completion of this module, you will:
- Understand and apply key concepts in criminology to two topic areas
- Compare and contrast different approaches to crime issues
- Evaluate the usefulness of different theories of crime for understanding to two topic areas
Unit 12: Literature: The Novel
Upon successful completion of this module, you will:
- Understand structure and plot within the novel
- Understand themes in the novel
- Understand the use of language in the novel
- Understand the significance of characterisation within the novel
- Understand the significance of setting within the novel
- Understand the significance of the various contexts within which novels are written
- Be able to apply a critical perspective to a novel
Unit 13: Political Ideologies
On completion of this unit you will:
- Understand the various definitions of politics
- Understand a range of political theoretical perspectives
- Understand the relevance of a range of political ideologies and theories to contemporary political issues
Unit 14: Poverty in Contemporary Britain
Upon successful completion of this module, you will:
- Understand definitions of poverty
- Understand the historical context of poverty in Britain
- Understand the different methods used to measure poverty
- Understand theoretical explanations of poverty
- Understand explanations about why certain social groups are more likely to experience poverty
- Understand recent policies for tackling poverty in Britain
Unit 15: Human Rights
Upon successful completion of this module, you will:
- Understand the development of human rights
- Understand the rights protected by the Human Rights Act 1998
- Know the impact of the Human Rights Act 1998
Entry Requirements
To study an Access to HE Diploma you must be resident in the UK and have a UK postcode.
You must hold Level 2 qualifications in both English and Maths, or be working towards them alongside studying your Access to Higher Education Diploma.
University Entry Criteria
It must be reiterated that each university will set its own admission criteria. So, you must check with your desired institution if your Access to HE Diploma and other qualifications will be accepted. In many cases, to get started at university you will need: - A certain number of credits passed with a merit or a distinction grade - A face-to-face interview at the university - Literacy and numeracy assessments provided by the university - Course-related work placements or work experience - GCSE Grade C/4 or above in Maths and English (or equivalent Level 2 such as Functional Skills/Key Skills, etc.) It is your responsibility to check that your Access to HE Diploma will be accepted as part of these entry requirements for your chosen degree. learndirect will not be held accountable if completing this Access to Higher Education Diploma doesn’t secure you a position with a higher education institution.
Minimum Age Restriction
Access to HE Diplomas are designed to support students to progress to university who have substantial experience of life outside of formal education which they have gained since completing compulsory schooling.
Average Completion Timeframe
The average time it takes our learners to complete the course is 9-12 months.
Assessment Requirements
A range of assessment methodologies are used, including: essay, scenario analysis, illustrated report, experiment, presentation (video and audio recording), series of questions, academic writing skills tasks.
Exams Required
There are no exams included in the assessment of the course.
Is Membership Required?
No membership is required to enrol on this course.
Additional Requirements
Learners must be actively studying for a minimum of six months before results can be ratified and certificates ordered. The six month period does not start until you have passed unit 2 of your course and you must be submitting assignments regularly (in line with the deadlines in your Individual Learning Plan) to meet this six month requirement. Certificates can only be issued once your course is paid for in full.
Certification Timeframe
You can expect to receive your certificate 12-16 weeks from your final assignment being marked and graded, depending on the time of year. You will be provided with regular updates throughout the certification process so that you are fully informed of your individual timeframes.
Course Fees
All course fees, inclusive of all payment plans including our Premium Credit Limited option, must be settled before certification can be ordered.
*You will have access to the course for 24 months.
A range of units make up this qualification, with an assignment at the end of each. You will submit your work to your tutor for marking and tailored feedback. You must acquire 60 credits in total in order to achieve the Access to Humanities and Social Sciences – Humanities Pathway. Of these credits, 45 will be taken from graded units which focus on the academic subject areas included in the course. The remaining 15 come from ungraded units included to help you to improve your academic writing and study skills.
As part of your programme, you will also receive help as well as guidance on your university application and the research you need to do to get the most out of your diploma.
Skills & Education Group Access
On successful completion of the Access to Humanities and Social Sciences – Humanities Pathway, (QAA aim code: 40012888), you will receive a Skills & Education Group Access, QAA recognised, Access to Higher Education Diploma at Level 3. As part of your programme, you will also receive help as well as guidance on your university application and the research you need to do to get the most out of your diploma.
An access validating agency with a strong social purpose to recognise achievement, particularly for those who have benefited least from their previous educational experiences, Skills and Education Group Access supports the needs of learners, providers, businesses and communities by enabling progression into higher education.
Career
With the Access to Humanities and Social Sciences – Humanities Pathway under your belt, you will be in a strong position to study a degree related to these fields. If you are unsure of what avenue you want to take in terms of your career, then the diploma is a great option as it covers a wide range of topics.
During your studies, it may become clearer in your mind which path you want to go down. There are a wide range of subjects you could go on to study at degree level, including:
- Politics
- Criminology
- Sociology
- International Studies
- Law
- Psychology
- History
Further Qualifications and Prospects
Depending on the career path you choose to take, you may require further training and qualifications to achieve your end goal. For example, if you want to progress into teaching, you will need to achieve Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) through approved Teacher training programmes.
Moreover, if your ambition is to work in psychology, then you may need to gain qualifications in addition to your degree. For example, to become a Forensic Psychologist, a postgraduate qualification is required. Whatever avenue you go down, an Access to Humanities and Social Sciences – Humanities Pathway will get you prepared for a career in this field.
Frequently Asked Questions
Access to Humanities and Social Sciences – Humanities Pathway
Your Course at a Glance
- Go to university without A-Levels
- Pursue a degree in sociology, psychology, and more
- Get prepared for degree-level study
- Study online from the comfort of your own home
- Tutor support
- No exams
About Your Diploma
For anyone keen to pursue a degree in sociology, psychology, history, or other subjects related to social sciences or humanities, gaining foundational knowledge will put you in a strong position ahead of your university studies.
The Access to Humanities and Social Sciences – Humanities Pathway is a Level 3 qualification that not only provides you with essential knowledge but is the equivalent of 3 A-Levels. This means that if you don’t possess traditional qualifications to get into university, then an Access to Higher Education Diploma is a solid alternative.
During your studies, you will explore the intricacies of human behaviour and mental processes, gain insights into significant historical events and their societal impacts, and enhance your literary analysis skills through the study of classic and contemporary works.
The course also offers critical perspectives on societal issues, governance, justice, and ethical considerations, while providing a vital understanding of contemporary socio-economic challenges. This pathway not only broadens your knowledge but also cultivates the analytical and critical thinking skills essential for higher education and beyond.
Getting Started
To help keep you on track with your studies, you will be given an Individual Learning Plan (ILP), which will detail the submission deadlines of your assignments, creating a clear schedule for you to follow. The course is delivered entirely online, so you can learn from the comfort of your own home.
You have a level of freedom that does not come with classroom learning, and while there are deadlines to meet, you are able to fit your study time around your existing commitments. As soon as you enrol on the course, you will be given instant access to all the course materials you need.
Our student portal has everything neatly organised for you in one place, and you will benefit from the expertise of dedicated tutors and our Access Support Team.
Unlike A Levels, in which you need to study for around two years to achieve the qualifications, you can gain your Access to Higher Education Diploma in less than a year! When you enrol, you have two years to complete the course, but learndirect students take 9 months, on average, to achieve their qualification.
Modules
Unit 1: Academic Writing Skills
Upon successful completion of this module, you will:
- Be able to structure a written response
- Be able to develop a structured response to a plan
- Be able to present the response appropriately for audience and purpose
- Understand how to apply academic writing principles to own work
Unit 2: Reading and Note Making
Upon successful completion of this module, you will:
- Understand a range of reading strategies
- Understand the use of language in terms of the purpose and context of a range of texts
- Be able to use methods for developing notes from a range of sources
Unit 3: Perspectives in Psychology
Upon successful completion of this module, you will:
- Understand different psychological perspectives
- Understand the differences between alternative psychological perspectives
- Understand the application of psychological perspectives to contemporary issues in psychology
Unit 4: Crime and Society
Upon successful completion of this module, you will:
- Understand crime and deviance
- Understand crime statistics
- Understand theoretical explanations of crime
- Understand social and cultural patterns of crime and criminality
Unit 5: Industrialisation in Britain
Upon successful completion of this module, you will:
- Understand the conditions which encouraged industrialisation in Britain
- Understand perspectives on the causes of industrialisation
- Understand the effects of industrialisation on the nature of industrial work practices
Unit 6: Literature: Shakespeare
Upon successful completion of this module, you will:
- Understand the interpretative nature of text and performance
- Be able to discuss text using relevant literary terminology
- Understand theatrical conventions
- Understand the significance of cultural, social, and historical influences on both producers and audiences
Unit 7: Biopsychology: Behaviour and the Brain
Upon successful completion of this module, you will:
- Understand the concept of localisation of function
- Understand the strengths and weaknesses of methods of investigating the relationship between the brain and behaviour
- Understand the interaction between the brain and behaviour
Unit 8: Social and Economic Change in 19th Century Britain
Upon successful completion of this module, you will:
- Understand agricultural change and the development of industrialisation in 19th century Britain
- Understand the causes and effects of rapid urban growth in the 19th century Britain
- Understand the development of social and political protect in 19th century Britain
Unit 9: Analysing Short Stories
Upon successful completion of this module, you will:
- Understand the skills needed to analyse short stories
- Understand the significance of context in short stories
- Understand how literary criticism can be used to develop a response to short stories
Unit 10: Biopsychology: Behaviour and Drugs
Upon successful completion of this module, you will:
- Understand how neurotransmitters in the brain control behaviour
- Understand the action of drugs on synaptic transmission
- Understand how psychoactive drugs change behaviour
- Understand the role of serotonin antagonists and reuptake inhibitors in the treatment of disorders
Unit 11: Current Issues in Criminology
Upon successful completion of this module, you will:
- Understand and apply key concepts in criminology to two topic areas
- Compare and contrast different approaches to crime issues
- Evaluate the usefulness of different theories of crime for understanding to two topic areas
Unit 12: Literature: The Novel
Upon successful completion of this module, you will:
- Understand structure and plot within the novel
- Understand themes in the novel
- Understand the use of language in the novel
- Understand the significance of characterisation within the novel
- Understand the significance of setting within the novel
- Understand the significance of the various contexts within which novels are written
- Be able to apply a critical perspective to a novel
Unit 13: Political Ideologies
On completion of this unit you will:
- Understand the various definitions of politics
- Understand a range of political theoretical perspectives
- Understand the relevance of a range of political ideologies and theories to contemporary political issues
Unit 14: Poverty in Contemporary Britain
Upon successful completion of this module, you will:
- Understand definitions of poverty
- Understand the historical context of poverty in Britain
- Understand the different methods used to measure poverty
- Understand theoretical explanations of poverty
- Understand explanations about why certain social groups are more likely to experience poverty
- Understand recent policies for tackling poverty in Britain
Unit 15: Human Rights
Upon successful completion of this module, you will:
- Understand the development of human rights
- Understand the rights protected by the Human Rights Act 1998
- Know the impact of the Human Rights Act 1998
Entry Requirements
To study an Access to HE Diploma you must be resident in the UK and have a UK postcode.
You must hold Level 2 qualifications in both English and Maths, or be working towards them alongside studying your Access to Higher Education Diploma.
University Entry Criteria
It must be reiterated that each university will set its own admission criteria. So, you must check with your desired institution if your Access to HE Diploma and other qualifications will be accepted. In many cases, to get started at university you will need: - A certain number of credits passed with a merit or a distinction grade - A face-to-face interview at the university - Literacy and numeracy assessments provided by the university - Course-related work placements or work experience - GCSE Grade C/4 or above in Maths and English (or equivalent Level 2 such as Functional Skills/Key Skills, etc.) It is your responsibility to check that your Access to HE Diploma will be accepted as part of these entry requirements for your chosen degree. learndirect will not be held accountable if completing this Access to Higher Education Diploma doesn’t secure you a position with a higher education institution.
Minimum Age Restriction
Access to HE Diplomas are designed to support students to progress to university who have substantial experience of life outside of formal education which they have gained since completing compulsory schooling.
Average Completion Timeframe
The average time it takes our learners to complete the course is 9-12 months.
Assessment Requirements
A range of assessment methodologies are used, including: essay, scenario analysis, illustrated report, experiment, presentation (video and audio recording), series of questions, academic writing skills tasks.
Exams Required
There are no exams included in the assessment of the course.
Is Membership Required?
No membership is required to enrol on this course.
Additional Requirements
Learners must be actively studying for a minimum of six months before results can be ratified and certificates ordered. The six month period does not start until you have passed unit 2 of your course and you must be submitting assignments regularly (in line with the deadlines in your Individual Learning Plan) to meet this six month requirement. Certificates can only be issued once your course is paid for in full.
Certification Timeframe
You can expect to receive your certificate 12-16 weeks from your final assignment being marked and graded, depending on the time of year. You will be provided with regular updates throughout the certification process so that you are fully informed of your individual timeframes.
Course Fees
All course fees, inclusive of all payment plans including our Premium Credit Limited option, must be settled before certification can be ordered.
*You will have access to the course for 24 months.
Assessment
A range of units make up this qualification, with an assignment at the end of each. You will submit your work to your tutor for marking and tailored feedback. You must acquire 60 credits in total in order to achieve the Access to Humanities and Social Sciences – Humanities Pathway. Of these credits, 45 will be taken from graded units which focus on the academic subject areas included in the course. The remaining 15 come from ungraded units included to help you to improve your academic writing and study skills.
As part of your programme, you will also receive help as well as guidance on your university application and the research you need to do to get the most out of your diploma.
Qualifications
Skills & Education Group Access
On successful completion of the Access to Humanities and Social Sciences – Humanities Pathway, (QAA aim code: 40012888), you will receive a Skills & Education Group Access, QAA recognised, Access to Higher Education Diploma at Level 3. As part of your programme, you will also receive help as well as guidance on your university application and the research you need to do to get the most out of your diploma.
An access validating agency with a strong social purpose to recognise achievement, particularly for those who have benefited least from their previous educational experiences, Skills and Education Group Access supports the needs of learners, providers, businesses and communities by enabling progression into higher education.
Career
With the Access to Humanities and Social Sciences – Humanities Pathway under your belt, you will be in a strong position to study a degree related to these fields. If you are unsure of what avenue you want to take in terms of your career, then the diploma is a great option as it covers a wide range of topics.
During your studies, it may become clearer in your mind which path you want to go down. There are a wide range of subjects you could go on to study at degree level, including:
- Politics
- Criminology
- Sociology
- International Studies
- Law
- Psychology
- History
Further Qualifications and Prospects
Depending on the career path you choose to take, you may require further training and qualifications to achieve your end goal. For example, if you want to progress into teaching, you will need to achieve Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) through approved Teacher training programmes.
Moreover, if your ambition is to work in psychology, then you may need to gain qualifications in addition to your degree. For example, to become a Forensic Psychologist, a postgraduate qualification is required. Whatever avenue you go down, an Access to Humanities and Social Sciences – Humanities Pathway will get you prepared for a career in this field.
Frequently Asked Questions
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