24,000 Access to HE students are accepted at over 140 universities every year*
90% of graduates with a diploma were employed or in further study six months after graduating (2017/18)
Do you have a strong interest in data science? Want to study this subject at university level, but don’t currently meet the entry requirements for a degree? Our Access to Higher Education Diploma (Data Science) is designed to give adult learners an intensive introduction to this field, as well as boosting your study skills to prepare you for higher education.
The Access to HE Diploma is a Level 3 qualification equivalent to A-levels. It is designed for individuals who do not have traditional qualifications or a formal educational background, providing the necessary skill set to progress onto study at university and a subsequent career in a relevant field. As well as enhancing your academic skills, our one-year course lets you explore a range of areas in the field of information technology (IT), including data analysis and advanced mathematics, data science, a foundation of machine learning and an introduction to Python programming.
By completing this Access to HE Diploma, you will be able to take your first step towards a wide variety of industry careers, from systems analyst or data scientist to financial analyst or database developer. You will also be ready to embark on a range of degree-level courses within the computing sector.
Why choose this college course?
- RECOGNISED QUALIFICATION – This Access to Higher Education Diploma will give you a nationally-recognised qualification to help meet the entry requirements for university
- BOOST YOUR SKILLS – Gain the necessary study skills and key knowledge for your chosen subject or career, as well as the independent learning skills needed for university study
- GREAT LEARNING SUPPORT – Enjoy a positive and supportive learning experience that will develop your skills and confidence to progress onto higher education
- MOVE UP TO UNIVERSITY – Continue your learning journey to the next level at University College Birmingham, such as on our BSc Computer Science (Hons) and BSc Cybersecurity (Hons) degrees.
Our facilities
As part of your learning on this course, you will have access to our computer labs and independent study spaces.
Our computing facilities provide students with the best possible learning environment. We offer dedicated teaching labs equipped with high-performance computers and industry-standard software, ensuring students gain hands-on experience with tools used by professionals.
All students have access to modern PCs across our different buildings and quiet study areas for laptop use, making it easy to focus on independent learning and group projects. Whatever your study needs, our facilities are here to support your success.
Course breakdown
Topics you will study
- Introduction to Python
- Data and Data Science
- Foundations of Data Analytics
- Foundations of Machine Learning
- Machine Learning Methods and Models
- Study Techniques
Optional modules:
- Computer System
- Programming Principles
- Understanding Organisational Security
- Software Design and Development
- Fundamental of SQL
- Applications of SQL
Please note: Units/topics of study are subject to change
Entry requirements
Our Access to Higher Education Diploma course has been designed for students who have not had the opportunity to access higher education.
Academic requirements
- GCSE English (Language) and Maths at grade 4 (grade C) or equivalent (does not include Functional Skills)
- If you are unsure if your qualification is equivalent or if you wish to check if you meet the entry requirements for this course, please call 0121 214 2919 or email feadmissions@ucb.ac.uk
Supporting documents required
Applicants will also be required to submit a reference from a previous or current employment role. Please where possible, submit this with your application by emailing your reference to feadmissions@ucb.ac.uk
Guaranteed progression
Students who achieve 56 UCAS points or more from this qualification will automatically be guaranteed a place on a degree course at University College Birmingham. Some undergraduate courses require additional entry requirements, so applicants are advised to check entry requirements before applying.
Key information
Teaching and assessment
You will be assessed through internally set assessments.
Please note: This course requires attendance of two days per week.
Our teaching and assessment is underpinned by our Teaching, Learning and Assessment Strategy 2021-2024.
Fees
The fee for this course is £3,022. Please click here for more information.
Please note: Student Finance England will 'write off' any outstanding Advanced Learner Loan balances you owe for an Access to HE course once you complete a higher education course. This means you do not have to repay it. (The higher education course must be eligible for Student Finance).
Access to Higher Education
Accreditations, endorsements and partnerships
University College Birmingham works with a wide range of organisations to ensure you receive the best possible training and qualifications recognised by industry.
With increasing demand for skilled professionals in data analytics, it’s essential to equip students with the ability to analyse, interpret and create software solutions that make a real impact in both private and public sectors. This course offers a broad range of modules, ensuring students are fully prepared to confidently move forward —whether progressing to their next programme or advancing in their career.
Career opportunities
This course is designed to enable your progression onto higher education. Depending on entry requirements, you could continue onto a degree at University College Birmingham, such as Computer Science, Cyber Security or Business Management.
With further study, possible future career options open to you include:
Systems analyst
Average salary: £30,000 – £40,000
Database developer
Average salary: £34,000 – £48,000
Data scientist
Average Salary: £55,000
Junior data analyst
£27,000 - £30,000
Note: The example roles and salaries are intended as a guide only.
Kanwal’s Story
Kanwal brings vast expertise to this new course and is dedicated to promoting learning strengths across diverse groups of students.
