Access to Higher Education Diploma: Medical Science with Chemistry or Physics

Program Overview

This one-year Access course prepares mature students for Level 4 undergraduate study in Medical Science. Through a combination of Biology, Physics, and Chemistry coursework, it provides students with the knowledge and skills necessary for success in their chosen degree program and develops their academic confidence and study skills. Students can specialize in Physics or Chemistry and progress to related degree programs upon completion.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

This is a one-year Level 3 Access course designed for mature students (19 years or older) who lack the necessary qualifications (A-Levels or BTECs) for direct entry into a Level 4 undergraduate degree. The course aims to provide students with a "second chance" to gain the knowledge and skills required for successful university study. The course is regulated by the Quality Assurance Agency and is taught in a university setting, offering students a supportive environment and access to university resources.

Objectives:

• To prepare students for the rigors of Level 4 study and beyond.
• To provide students with a strong foundation in the knowledge and skills needed for success in their chosen degree program.
• To develop students' academic confidence and study skills.

Outline:

The Access to Higher Education Diploma: Medical Science with Chemistry or Physics is a full-time course taught over 36 weeks. It covers the following subjects:

• Biology:
• Human Cell Biology
• Biochemistry
• Genetics
• Inherited Disease
• Infectious Disease
• Human Cardiac and Respiratory Systems
• Skeleton and Muscles
• Health Promotion
• Control and Regulation
• Human Reproduction
• Physics:
• Static, Forces and Newton’s Laws of Motion
• Waves, Light and Sound
• Electricity
• Electromagnetism
• Nuclear Properties of Material
• Medical Physics (independent study)
• Chemistry:
• Fundamentals of Chemistry
• Haloalkanes, Alcohols, Aldehydes and Ketones
• Acids and Bases
• Reaction Kinetics
• Bonding, Crystal Structure and Shapes
• Study Skills:
• Progression Skills
• English for Academic Study

Assessment:

Students are assessed through a variety of methods, including:

• Essay writing
• Presentations
• Writing
• Academic posters
Assessments are designed to apply the knowledge, skills, and behaviors learned in class and through independent study.

Teaching:

• The course utilizes a diverse range of teaching and learning activities, including interactive sessions, student participation, student-led tasks, group work, independent research, and investigation.
• Guest speakers from various fields are invited to deliver short talks.
• Students have access to the University of Derby's library and on-site facilities.

Careers:

Upon completion of the Access course, students can progress to a degree in the Medical Science discipline that aligns with their chosen specialization (Physics or Chemistry).

• Physics pathway: Diagnostic radiography and sonography
• Chemistry pathway: Pharmacy and dental therapy

Other:

• The course content is regularly reviewed and updated to ensure it meets the needs of students and employers.
• The University of Derby offers a Pre Access course for students who lack Level 2 qualifications.
This course prepares students for the Access course by providing them with English and Maths qualifications, as well as an introduction to Level 3 study.
• 90% of Access Diploma graduates are employed or in further study 6 months after graduation (Quality Assurance Assessment, 2021).