Access to Social Sciences (Psychology, Law & Sociology)

L3 Level 3
Full Time
3 September 2025 — 16 June 2026
City Centre Campus, Cardiff

About this course

An Access course is an intense learning opportunity, aimed at adults who wish to study at university but don't necessarily have the qualifications to apply. An Access course would suit mature students with significant work and life experiences who have been out of formal education for 3 or more years. An Access Level 3 course is specifically designed to prepare students for study at university level.

This course would suit learners looking to pursue a career in social care or a legal role who wish to study one of the following university degrees (NB this list is not exhaustive)

  • Health & Social Care
  • Law
  • Criminology
  • Sociology
  • Care Studies
  • Philosophy
  • Social Work
  • Psychology
  • Youth Work 

What you will study

This course will cover subjects in:

  • Law
  • Sociology 
  • Psychology

Entry requirements

3 or more years out of formal education. GCSE English C+ (Please be aware that some universities require GCSE English and Maths C+ 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 assessments including coursework assignments and exams and practical skills tests

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

3 September 2025

End date

16 June 2026

Time of day

Day Time

Full Time

16 hours per week

Location

City Centre Campus, Cardiff
Maps & directions

Course code

ACCC3F05
L3

Qualification

Access to Social Sciences
Access logo

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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