About the course
This study programme is designed for our aged 19+ adult learners.
Please visit our 16-18 section for alternative courses.
This exciting new course combines the popular subjects of Psychology, Criminology, and Sociology. Delivered full-time over the duration of 36 weeks, the course gives you the opportunity to develop the knowledge and the range of skills which are essential for a successful transition to Higher Education.
The course will develop a range of important skills, which will enable progression and future success in study at degree level. Upon successful completion of this course, you will have the necessary skills and confidence to pursue a variety of degree studies in fields including Psychology; Criminology; Law; Policing; Social Work, and the Civil Service.
Subject to student numbers, the course will be available as either a daytime course running on two days per week or an evening course running over three evenings per week.
Entry requirements
Applicants should have an interest in the Social Sciences and be prepared for nine months study. Whilst there are no formal academic requirements for this course, a Level 2 qualification in English and maths are required. This Access to Social Science programme of study is of A Level standard, and we must ensure at interview that applicants have a good chance of success.
Before commencing this course, students are advised to enquire as to individual university entry requirements, e.g. many universities now require GCSE English and Mathematics at Grade C/4 or above (or Functional Skills equivalents), for Social Science degrees.
Applicants must be 19 or over as at 31 August.
Qualifications
60 Credit Level Three Access to Higher Education Diploma in Social Sciences.
What you'll learn (core modules)
- Academic themes studied will draw from the disciplines of Psychology; Criminology, Sociology. Studying these subjects will expose you to an exciting programme of study, and will include the following:
- Criminology - You will develop an understanding of the key themes associated with this subject, such as offender profiling, the theories of crime, and aspects of law and policing.
- Psychology - This subject will familiarise students with insights into mental health behaviours, memory, and social processes, such as group behaviour, and obedience and conformity. Along with this, students will develop key research skills essential to studying Psychology at degree level.
- Sociology - Within this subject area, students will gain an understanding of society and the impact on the individual. Topics explored within this area include inequality; research skills, and disability.
- Alongside the three core subjects, students will benefit from the inclusion of Maths and statistics within the course, as it is recognised that these skills are essential to successful study at university.
How will I be assessed?
Students are prepared and supported to help them to undertake a range of different assessments. Assessment strategies include essay writing, report writing, presentations, and exams - all of which prepare students for the assessments that would be normally undertaken at university.
Where is the course delivered? (facilities/classrooms)
This course is delivered at
West Suffolk College Haverhill
2 Park Road
Haverhill
CB9 7YD
Where will this course take me?
The structure of the programme provides learners with all of the tools required to undertake a variety of degrees in subjects including:
- Psychology
- Criminology
- Youth Studies
- Social Work
- Probation
- Policing
- Public services
- Home Office
- Criminal Courts
- Health & Social Care Sector
- Teaching
How much will it cost?
The course fees are waived if the student is under 24 years of age and has not studied a full Level 3 qualification.
Students over 24 years can finance their course through an Advanced Learner Loan
If you need help with funding
For further information on the Advanced Learner Loan, please head to our information page: Advanced Learner Loan
I'm interested. What should I do now?
Please apply online, or email us to find out more: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
Days & times
Starting 11/09/2023