Access to Higher Education Courses

If you're looking to study for a degree but don't yet have the qualifications you need, an Access to Higher Education (HE) diploma could be for you. Similar to A-levels, Access to HE diplomas are full level 3 qualifications.

Around 40,000 students take advantage of this entry route to university every year. Access to HE diplomas can be completed in one year and provide you with the knowledge, skills and qualifications to move onto university study.

At Hartpury, you can choose from Access to HE qualifications in Sports Science, Animal Science and Welfare, Agriculture and Equine. Our students at all levels of study benefit from a specialist and hands-on learning environment with world-class facilities and expertise.

Book an appointment

Prospective students can book an online appointment via Microsoft Bookings with one of our programme managers to discuss our courses and options for Access to Higher Education. Any time slots for appointments will be made available via the appropriate links below.

Book appointment Apply now

Career progression

Our Access students have gone on to study undergraduate and postgraduate degrees at Hartpury University and other institutions, progressing into a range of careers.

Progression roadmap

Our courses

Each one of our courses is made up of core units which include science, business, research projects and higher education study skills. There are also opportunities to study towards separate English and maths qualifications, if required.

Land-Based Studies

You’ll develop the necessary study skills and field specific grounding to go on to succeed within your chosen agriculture pathway. Core units include science, business, research projects and higher education study skills, as well as two specialist units which focus specifically on livestock and crop production.

We’re committed to sustainability and ensuring our students graduate with the right skills for net zero, meaning you'll be you’re ready to contribute to the agriculture industry now and in the future.

Find out more

Sports Studies

We’ll help you to build your knowledge of coaching, human and sports science, the wider sports industry and study skills, giving you the tools to succeed as you progress. You’ll learn from industry experts who know what it takes to manage behind the scenes infrastructure and support elite athletes.

As one of the UK’s most successful educational institutions for sport, our unique environment gives you access to our world-class facilities, which include our performance and science laboratories, gyms, rehabilitation suites and sports pitches. You’ll also have full access to our 24-hour University Learning Centre.

Find out more

Designed to work for you

Qualifications are offered flexibly to suit your existing commitments and, depending on your situation, you could get your tuition fees paid in full; for example, if you’re aged 19-23 and haven’t already studied A-level, diploma or equivalent qualifications. If you’re a UK Student aged 24+, you may also be eligible to apply for an Advanced Learner Loan to cover your fees. These loans may not require repayment if you then continue onto, and complete, a degree.

On successful completion of the diploma, many of our students progress onto study undergraduate degrees at Hartpury, with options to advance even further through a postgraduate qualification. 96% of Hartpury University graduates are in employment, further study or other meaningful activity within 15 months (Graduate Outcomes, 2021).

Open days

Our events are design to inform and inspire, helping you to make the right decision about your future. You’ll find out about Hartpury student life and how we’ll support your to develop the skills and experience you need. You’ll meet course managers, support teams, current students and more.

Book now

Success stories

Scarlett Millar

Access to Higher Education Diploma - Land-Based Studies

Access to HE was the best choice for me. It’s opening doors to my dream career.

David Monaghan

Access to Higher Education Diploma - Sports Studies

There are plenty of career opportunities if you have the qualifications and experience – and that’s what I’m gaining.

Hannah Knaggs

Access to Higher Education Diploma - Land-Based Studies

Hartpury access was really key to my success. I think it’s developed me as a person.

Zoe Brown

Access to Higher Education Diploma - Land-Based Studies

I liked the specificity of Hartpury’s Access diploma and the environment, particularly after seeing the campus in person.

Ready to apply?

Places to study at our Ofsted Outstanding college are competitive, so we recommend submitting your application early before courses fill up.

To apply for a diploma course at Hartpury College please complete an online application. Once submitted, we’ll be in touch to progress next steps.

Apply now