Access to Biosciences (Biology, Biochemistry & Chemistry)

L3 Level 3
Part Time
10 September 2025 — 22 June 2027
City Centre Campus, Cardiff
£: This course is free for unemployed adults or adults in receipt of specific benefits. If eligible, you do not pay the 'Course fee' listed under 'Course fee per year'. A registration fee of £10-40 may be charged. Any professional registration fee / exam fee / other fee listed will need to be paid for. Financial support for these costs may be available. To find our more go to www.cavc.ac.uk/PartTimeFunding

About this course

Our Access to Biosciences course is perfect for those individuals keen to develop their knowledge and understanding of the biological sciences. Based at our City Centre campus in Cardiff, this is an intensive two-year programme.

The course will be run over three evenings starting at 5.45pm (no Saturday workshops).

What you will study

This course will prepare students for a range of university courses including:

  • Biosciences
  • Forensic Science
  • Biology
  • Biomedical Science
  • Food and Science Technology
  • Healthcare Science
  • Dental Technology
  • Nursing
  • ODP
  • Physiotherapy
  • Occupational Health
  • Dietetics
  • Radiography
  • Pharmacy

This qualification is designed to equip students with the skills and knowledge needed to progress into Higher Education and the content which is covered typically allows students to progress to university courses. This is an intensive course, so candidates must be certain they are ready for both the academic demands and the workload of the programme. On successful completion of the course, learners will achieve the Access to Higher Education Diploma qualification. This is a nationally recognised qualification that is accepted for entry into Higher Education courses.

Biology and Chemistry are covered as major subjects on this course. You will also be required to study Numeracy, Communications and Study Skills as mandatory core subjects. Weekly personal tutorials are held to support students through their studies.

Please note that some degree pathways require additional qualifications (e.g GCSE Maths/English at Grade B), alongside the Access to HE Diploma qualification. Please ensure you sign up to the appropriate provision based on your planned exit route - this can be discussed with us during your interview if you wish.

If you don't already have the GCSE qualifications and these are needed for your preferred university course, you might like to consider our pre-Access course - Adult Foundation. Induction week typically starts in the first week of September each academic year.

Course fee per year

Part-time enrolment fee: £35.00

Course Fee: £160.00

Entry requirements

3 or more years out of formal education. GCSE Maths C+ (Please be aware that some universities require GCSE English and Maths C+ grade at application stage, and in some instances GCSE Science). Numeracy skills at Level 2 and Literacy skills at strong Level 2/preferably Level 3 – assessed at interview. Students will need to have basic IT skills, and be able to use Microsoft Office apps, such as Teams, Word and PowerPoint for academic research and assignments. Clear, well researched exit pathways, knowledge of university courses and their entry requirements. Students should research and make sure that they meet the qualification entry requirements for their chosen universities. You will need to provide evidence of your qualifications before enrolling.

Teaching and assessment

  • Continuous assessment including essays, presentations, in class tests and exams.

Important points

  • The College welcomes contact with parents/guardians of students who are under 18.
  • Additional support is available for students with learning difficulties and disabilities.
  • Cardiff and Vale College is committed to inclusion and values diversity. We are determined to promote equality of opportunity and to treat everyone fairly and with respect.
  • Cardiff and Vale College reserves the right to make changes to this course without prior notice.
  • Course fees are subject to change. Your fee will be confirmed prior to enrolment.
  • All courses are accurate at the time of upload or print.
  • Courses can only run if there are sufficient numbers.
  • Please note, if you choose three or more course choices, then you may be referred for a careers appointment first. This does not apply to A Level or GCSE choices.
Key information

Start date

10 September 2025

End date

22 June 2027

Time of day

Night Time

Part Time

10 hours per week

Location

City Centre Campus, Cardiff
Maps & directions
£: This course is free for unemployed adults or adults in receipt of specific benefits. If eligible, you do not pay the 'Course fee' listed under 'Course fee per year'. A registration fee of £10-40 may be charged. Any professional registration fee / exam fee / other fee listed will need to be paid for. Financial support for these costs may be available. To find our more go to www.cavc.ac.uk/PartTimeFunding

Course code

ACSDF3P02
L3

Qualification

Access to Biosciences (Biology, Biochemistry & Chemistry)
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Career prospects & further study

After completing this course, successful candidates may progress within the college and go on to study for a Foundation Degree. Many students also pursue various employment opportunities within the industry, as well as a number of courses at University. 

Locations

City Centre Campus, Cardiff
City Centre Campus, Cardiff

City Centre Campus,

Dumballs Road,

Cardiff,

CF10 5FE