About the course
The Access to Higher Education Diploma in Construction and the Built Environment is a nationally recognised qualification designed to prepare adult learners for progression into university-level study within the construction and built environment sectors. Delivered by West Suffolk College and awarded by CAVA, the course will offer a comprehensive foundation in key areas such as construction technology, project management, and the principles of design and sustainability.
A distinctive feature of this course is its strong emphasis on industry relevance and progression. While there is no mandatory placement requirement, learners are actively encouraged to engage with work-based opportunities, placements, site visits, and employer-led projects that enhance real-world understanding and support their future academic and career aspirations. The course is ideal for those looking to pursue careers in architecture, civil engineering, quantity surveying, construction management, or other related disciplines.
Entry requirements
GCSE English and Maths Grade C/4 or above
or
Functional Skills English and Maths Level 2
GCSE Science advantageous
What you'll learn (core modules)
The Level 3 Access to HE Diploma in Construction and Built Environment is a one-year qualification designed to give you a direct route into Higher Education – Degree, Apprenticeship, HNC/HND.
Students will learn a range of practical and technical skills; develop knowledge of the theory, principles, and practices of construction and receive a thorough overview of the built environment.
Students will study several topics essential to a career in the Construction or Built Environment industries including construction technology, engineering materials, site and brief analysis, land surveys, sustainability, computer aided design (CAD), and health and safety.
The Level 3 Access to HE Diploma will also teach educational skills and study tools, to support students in progression to Higher Education and university. These skills include report writing, research, essay writing, communication skills, word processing, and examination skills.How will I be assessed?
The programme and units will be delivered through part-time evening delivery and on a face-to-face basis with focus on multiple assessment methods that will encapsulate employment-based skills that cover: report writing, presenting skills, oration, research skills development, practical application of Construction management techniques, which will culminate to achieve a total of 60credits through a portfolio of evidence for the completion of the full programme.
Where is the course delivered? (facilities/classrooms)
University Studies Campus
73 Western Way
Bury St Edmunds
Suffolk IP33 3SP
Where will this course take me?
Career pathways may include Project Management, Quantity Surveying, Building Surveying, Commercial Management in Construction, Built Environment Design, Health and Safety.
How much will it cost?
Advanced Learner Loan or Self funded
If you need help with funding
We offer flexible payment plans to help spread the cost of fees.
If you are aged between 19 and 23 and studying for your first full Level 3 qualification, your course will be fully funded through our Adult Education Budget and you will not incur any fees.
If you are 19-23 and already have a full level 3 qualification or are over 24, you can apply for an Advanced Learner Loan to fund your course.
For students studying Access to HE diplomas, Student Finance England will write off any outstanding Advanced Learner Loan balances taken out to pay for an Access course should you complete a degree. This means that you would not have to repay your access loan.
Study is hard enough without struggling to pay for the things that you may need to undertake your course. A discretionary bursary fund, depending on household income and family circumstances may provide support for travel, childcare and materials required for your course. 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 09/09/2025
Tuesday 18:00 - 21:00
Wednesday 18:00 - 21:00
Thursday 18:00 - 21:00