An Access to Higher Education (HE) degree at Exeter College is a fantastic pathway into university level education. These courses have been designed to help people without formal qualifications to gain confidence in their skills and progress to professional level training. The Access Diploma is equivalent to A Levels and is recognised by UK universities. 

We offer Access Diplomas in seven subject areas: 

• Art and Design 
• Business 
• Healthcare 
• Humanities 
• Science (Biology and Chemistry) 
• Science (Physics and Maths) 
• Social Science 

The results of our Access to HE student survey speak for themselves: student satisfaction last year topped the South West at 82.69%. Learners praised the small class sizes, dedicated staff, rigorous academics, and celebration of learner achievements. 

Former Social Science Access learner Rowena Atkinson said:

“My tutor was amazing! Both my module leaders and my personal tutor restored my faith in teaching staff. They went above and beyond not only to make sure our Access experience was useful and relevant, but also to make lessons fun, whilst making sure everyone was supported.”

Devon’s only Ofsted-rated Outstanding college is an ideal place to return to school and start your journey into advanced qualifications. We understand that adult life can make this difficult, so we have funding options and childcare bursaries available.  

Luke Sandercock (pictured above) is one of our current Access learners. He describes his experience applying for funding.

“I didn’t apply for a bursary at first because I thought I’d be alright, but as soon as I realised that I needed the help it was quick and easy to sort out.”

Rowena describes the College’s supportive attitude:

“The College was very understanding of the things that adult learners have to think about in comparison to the average student, they also helped us manage how we could juggle our lives to be able to study.”

One of our learners who is using her Access diploma as a springboard into higher education and future employment is Alex Rudzka-Jefferies. This current Access to Business student has already received several offers to read Law and will be going on to the University of West England.

We are open for applications for courses starting in September 2023. You can request the full guide to our range of Access courses and learn more here.  

Register for our March Adult Open Event and speak with our friendly staff to learn more. You can also talk to our Adult Advice team by emailing adultadvice@exe-coll.ac.uk or by calling 01392 400170.