Our Access to HE Diploma in Psychology and Criminology gives you the opportunity to apply for a degrees in Psychology, Criminology, and other related pathways. This could lead to a career working in the NHS, private practice, the charity and voluntary sector, education, or research. You can specialise in a variety of areas, from clinical, educational and occupational psychology, to forensic and neuropsychology as well as counselling if you choose to specialise in psychology. If your preference is to specialise in Criminology, then you could consider work in the prison or probation service, youth offending teams, criminal justice system and forensic sciences.
This course is for you if you don’t have A-levels or the Level 3 qualification that you need to progress to higher education. It is particularly suitable if you have been out of education for a while and need to build your skills and confidence before doing a degree.
Whilst studying the Access to HE Diploma (Psychology and Criminology) you will complete a range of units which may include topics such as:
In addition to these subject specific modules, the course includes developmental units to support you in developing your academic skills in preparation for university. All students are supported by a system of individual and group tutorials. Attendance is two days per week (over one year). As the course is at Level 3, commitment is essential. In addition to your work at College you will be required to undertake independent study and research.
When applying to university, we will support you with completing your UCAS application, personal statement and we will provide you with an academic reference. It is important to note that successfully completing your Access to HE Diploma does not guarantee you a place at university. While most universities accept Access to Higher Education Diplomas, it is your own responsibility to check that your UCAS application meets the current entry requirements for your university course choices.
Start Date
September 2026
All undertaken at Calderdale College Campus.
Entry Requirements & Interview Process
GCSE English Language at Grade C/4 or above or a Functional Skills Level 2 equivalent. You are also recommended to have GCSE Maths Grade C/4 or Functional Skills Level 2, however you may undertake GCSE Maths/Functional Skills Maths alongside the Access to HE Diploma.
You will require a laptop or PC and access to Wi-Fi at home. All students are supported by a system of individual and group tutorials. Attendance is two days per week (over one year). As the course is at Level 3, commitment is essential. In addition to your work at College you will be required to undertake independent study and research.
All applicants will have opportunity to discuss their application during an interview with one of the tutors, where any questions about the course can be answered.
Applicants who are aged 18 will be considered based on interview
You are highly advised to check, prior to enrolling, the entry requirements of any courses you wish to apply for at degree level.
Progression
Foundation Degree Community, Public Health and Social Care
HNC Counselling and Applied Psychology (HTQ) | Calderdale College
Progression to other HE providers:
Degree programmes in Psychology, Child Psychology, Educational Psychology, Disability Studies, Education, Autism and many others.
Career Opportunities
Counsellor, Teacher, Mental Health Support, Child, Adolescent and Mental Health Support, Youth & Community Worker , Community Project worker , Police, Probation, Pathology, Crime Scene Investigation, Youth Offending Services
Assessment Methods
Work is assessed throughout the course via a variety of methods such as assignments, presentations, portfolio building and examinations.
Course Fees
Tuition Fee: £3,380
Registration Fee: £200
An Advanced Learner Loan is available to cover the cost of the Tuition Fee on this course. The Registration Fee is a separate fee, which you may not need to pay depending on your circumstances. Advice will be given about this during enrolment.
When you complete a HE qualification the Advanced Learner Loan is written off and you will not need to repay it.
Please contact Advice & Guidance for more information on 01422 399367 or see the Finance and Funding page.
Awarding Body
This diploma is validated by Open Awards.
Calderdale College has a set of standard entry requirements. Apply for the course you want to study and we will help you get there.
There are a lot of courses available – work focused, practical and academic so it is important to think about the future and whether you want to proceed to university, move onto another course or get a job. We offer BTECs, Apprenticeships, T Levels, NVQs, VRQs, Degree Level Courses and more.
If you’re still not sure, don’t worry, just speak to a member of our advice and guidance team who will advise you.
