Access to Higher Education Diploma (Business) - Bury St Edmunds

About the course

Ready for a fresh start? Whether you want to change career, build a better future or finally take the step towards university, our Access to Higher Education Diploma (Business) is designed to help adults aged 19 and over move forward with confidence.

You do not need to have followed a traditional route through education. You will learn alongside other adult students in a supportive environment, developing practical business knowledge, academic skills and the confidence to succeed. The qualification is a flexible, adult-friendly alternative to A Levels, leading to a 60-credit Level 3 Diploma that is widely recognised by UK universities and can earn you up to 144 UCAS points.

Not quite ready to commit to the full Diploma? Our fully funded 12-week Pre-Access course offers a welcoming first step, helping you refresh your study skills, rebuild your confidence and prepare for the next stage of your journey.

Entry requirements

Applicants must be 19 years of age or older on 31st August prior to the course beginning.

There are no formal entry requirements for this course. Entry is by successful interview.

While not essential, GCSE English and Maths at Grade 4/C or above (or equivalent Functional Skills Level 2) are recommended to support your progression to university or employment.

Find out more about Maths and English qualifications offered at the college.

Qualifications

Business Access to HE Diploma Level 3

What you'll learn (core modules)

You'll explore key areas of business and management designed to prepare you for higher education or the world of work. Throughout the course, you'll develop your understanding of how businesses operate and gain practical skills to help you succeed in modern organisations.

• Business operations and management
• Marketing, people and finance functions
• Leadership and human resource management
• Ethics, sustainability and the global business environment
• Research, academic writing and digital study skills

You'll gain the academic and employability skills needed for university study - including report writing, research, presentations and time management - all within a supportive and encouraging environment.

How will I be assessed?

You'll be assessed through a range of methods that reflect university-style learning, including essays, reports, presentations, time-controlled assessments, and a research project. This approach ensures you're fully prepared for degree-level study.

Where is the course delivered? (facilities/classrooms)

The course is delivered at:

University Studies Campus
73 Western Way
Bury St Edmunds
Suffolk IP33 3SP

Where will this course take me?

After completing the Access to HE Diploma, you can progress to a wide range of business-related degrees - including our UEA-validated BA (Hons) Business and Management right here at University Studies at West Suffolk College, or to other universities across the UK (subject to entry requirements).

Career pathways include:

• Business Management
• Business Analyst
• Project Manager
• Retail Manager
• Estate Agent
• Marketing
• Brand Manager
• Public Relations Executive
• Digital Marketer
• Market Researcher
• Human Resources
• HR Officer
• Recruitment Consultant
• Training and Development Officer
• Events Management
• Events Manager
• Programme Coordinator
• Sponsorship Coordinator

If you need help with funding

We understand that returning to study is a big decision - that's why we offer flexible funding options to make it easier for you.

• If you're aged 19-23 and studying your first full Level 3 qualification, your course will be fully funded through the Adult Education Budget.
• If you're 19-23 with a previous Level 3 qualification or aged 24+, you can apply for an Advanced Learner Loan to cover your fees.
• If you go on to complete a degree, Student Finance England will write off your Access Loan balance.

We also offer a Discretionary Bursary Fund (subject to eligibility) to help with travel, childcare and course materials.

Apply for a Bursary

I'm interested. What should I do now?

Please apply online, or email us to find out more: AccesstoHE@wsc.ac.uk

Days & times

Starting 06/09/2027