Access to HE Diploma (Veterinary Science)
The Access to HE Diploma makes studying more accessible, whether you currently work or looking for your next opportunity. The course provides a more flexible approach to learning with delivery focused online to fit in with demands of day to day life, and for those wanting to develop their knowledge and looking to progress to formal degree study.*
Course Details
-
Department
Veterinary Nursing -
Qualification
Level 3 -
Course Type
Part Time -
Length
1 Year -
Location(s)
Online/Distance Learning
Course at a glance
Do you have a passion for animals and a desire to make a difference in their lives? Our online Access to HE Diploma (Veterinary Science) course offers a pathway to a rewarding career as a Veterinary Nurse, Animal Behaviourist, Animal Nutritionist, biologist, conservationist, researcher or Zoologist. *Please note that this course is only available to people aged 19+.
Spring Intake: Applications currently being accepted for starting 5 March 2026
Autumn Intake: Applications currently being accepted for starting 28 September 2026Â Â
Winter Intake: Applications currently being accepted for starting 15 January 2027
Spring Intake: Applications currently being accepted for starting 5 March 2027Â
Awarding Body: Skills and Education Group Access
Start on your path to a career in veterinary science with this Level 3 qualification designed to prepare you for HE study.
- Equivalent to three A-levels and worth UCAS tariff points.
- Entirely online course
- A 1-year course designed to be flexible around your day-to-day life
- No exams required
- Gain skills to support and maintain the health of various species
- Make a difference in animals’ lives through your career
Please note that this course is only available to people aged 19+.
              
What you will learn
Our 1-year Access to HE Diploma (Veterinary Science) awarded by the Skills and Education Group Access has been designed to provide you with both knowledge and skills development, promoting self-paced learning around your current schedule. By completing this Level 3 equivalent course, you can achieve a qualification that meets the requirements for a range of degrees, such as veterinary based degree, science-based degree or other specialised animal degrees.
You will cover a range of topics including:
- Animal behaviour and welfare
- Animal physiology
- Animal cells, locomotion and senses
- Preparing for Success
- Academic Writing Skills
- Reading & Note Making
- Exploring the Structure and Function of Cells
- Atoms, Bonds & Structure
- Animal Cells, Locomotion and Senses
- Cell Division and Genetic Variation
- Animal Patterns of Behaviour, Communication and Welfare Issues
- Respiration in Cells
- The Digestive System and Dietary Needs of Animals
- Organic Concepts and Hydrocarbons
- Major Physiological Processes of Animals
- Chemistry of Drugs and Medicines
- Study Skills Portfolio Building
- Numerical Analysis of Statistical Data
- Kinetics, Energetics, Equilibria & Acid-Base Equilibria
- Ecology and Environmental Science
Key Information
Please note that this course is only available to people aged 19+.
You should have the following qualifications upon entry:
English – Level 2 Functional Skills, Grade C/4 GCSE
Mathematics – Level 2 Functional Skills, Grade C/4 GCSE
Equivalent qualifications may be considered.
Applications from mature students are welcomed. Applicants will be assessed on individual experience.
Please ensure you have checked with your chosen Higher Education provider that you will meet their entry requirements on completion of this Diploma.
Spring Intake: Applications currently being accepted for starting 5 March 2026
Autumn Intake: Applications currently being accepted for starting 28 September 2026Â Â (applications accepted until 26 Oct)
Winter Intake: Applications currently being accepted for starting 15 January 2027 (applications accepted until 25 January)
Spring Intake: Applications currently being accepted for starting 5 March 2027 (applications accepted until 25 March)
Upon successful completion, you may consider progressing to one of the University Centre’s foundation degree (FdSc) courses related to veterinary science or explore options at another university to continue your educational journey.
Alternatively, you may wish to consider careers in a variety of industries focused on animal management, Veterinary care assistant, or animal charity work.
Course cost: £5,197
You may be eligible for an Advanced Learner Loan to pay for your Access course. If you then go on to complete a degree course, this loan will then be ‘written off’ by Student Finance England meaning that you will not have to repay it.
You can find out more about advance learner loans and other potential funding options here. Advanced Learner Loan: Overview – GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)
There are no exams in this course.
All the subject units are completed through the online platform, once you have completed the learning materials section you will complete an online assignment relating to the subject.
