About the course
The diploma allows learners to undertake study related to forensics and criminology topics. Learners will have the opportunity to develop skills which will enable progression to a range of degree level programme. The mandatory units include a mixture of science-based units, which will support forensic topics, and basic criminology units. These include: Crime Statistics, Forensic Investigation Procedures, Forensic Science and Introduction to Criminology.
Many learners join degrees related to forensics and criminology after following A level study, so the diploma will place the Access to HE learners on a level with those who have followed A level studies.
You will also cover maths, statistics, and study skills as well as an individual Research Project. The course will give you the opportunity to develop a range of skills that will be essential for progression to university.
Entry requirements
Applicants must be 19 or over as at 31 August.
English and Maths at Functional Skills Level 2 or GCSE Grade 4 or Grade C as a minimum
It is preferable to hold a science GCSE but not essential
Qualifications
Access to HE Diploma Level 3 (Forensics and Criminology)
How will I be assessed?
A number of different assessments are used on the Access course. These include essay writing; presentations; exams; an e-portfolio of Higher Education Study Skills; and an Independent Research Project. These assessments will develop your academic skills in line with university expectations ensuring a smooth transition into degree level study programmes.
Where is the course delivered? (facilities/classrooms)
The course is delivered at:
University Studies Campus
73 Western Way
Bury St Edmunds
Suffolk IP33 3SP
Where will this course take me?
Progression routes
- BSc (Hons) Criminological Psychology
- BSc (Hons) Psychology and Criminology
- BSc (Hons) Police Studies with Criminal Psychology
- BSc (Hons) Forensic Science
- BSc (Hons) Forensic Science with Criminology
- BSc (Hons) Forensic Science with Psychology
- BA (Hons) Criminology and Criminal Justice
- BA (Hons) Criminology and Law
- BA (Hons) Criminology and Psychology
- BSc (Hons) Professional Policing
If you need help with funding
We offer flexible payment plans to help spread the cost of fees.
If you are aged between 19 and 23 and studying for your first full Level 3 qualification, your course will be fully funded through our Adult Education Budget and you will not incur any fees.
If you are 19-23 and already have a full level 3 qualification or are over 24, you can apply for an Advanced Learner Loan to fund your course.
For students studying Access to HE diplomas, Student Finance England will write off any outstanding Advanced Learner Loan balances taken out to pay for an Access course should you complete a degree. This means that you would not have to repay your access loan.
Study is hard enough without struggling to pay for the things that you may need to undertake your course. A discretionary bursary fund, depending on household income and family circumstances may provide support for travel, childcare and materials required for your course. Apply for a Bursary..
I'm interested. What should I do now?
Please apply online, or email us to find out more: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
Days & times
Starting 08/09/2025
Wednesday 18:00 - 21:00
Thursday 18:00 - 21:00
Friday 09:15 - 16:00