Access DiplomaBiological/Biomedical Science Validated by Queens University Belfast
Qualifications
Access Diploma in Biological Sciences (P10009)
Overview
The Access programmes are aimed at students who have been out of full-time education for a minimum of two years. The ethos of the access programmes are that they are designed to facilitate a ‘return’ to study and provide an alternative route for mature students wishing to apply for entry to higher education, who for a variety of reasons do not have the traditional qualifications required. The Access courses validated by QUB are widely recognised by all local universities and many UK Universities.
This course is one-year, full time in our Titanic Quarter Campus. The one-year course is intensive and challenging and requires a high level of commitment to achieve success. All Access programmes are Level 3 and considered to be equivalent to A level.
Specific modules are core modules, such as Foundations of Biology, Further Biology, Foundations of Chemistry, Microbiology and Study and Employability Skills. The sixth module is chosen from Further Chemistry, Further Maths & Practical Applications, Foundations of Physics and Scientific Research Techniques and Statistics (modules run subject to numbers).
Please follow this link for further information on the course: https://youtu.be/RMJS2gtbMYA
Download the Pre-Entry Advice presentation. Play Slideshow in the presentation to activate any links or videos
• Have been out of full-time education for at least 2 years
• GCSE Grade C or above in English
• GCSE Grade C or above in Maths
• GCSE Grade C or above in a Science subject
- Applicants whose first language is not English should refer to the QUB International Students section under the heading ‘English Language requirements for international students’ since different requirements apply. https://www.qub.ac.uk/International/International-students/Applying/English-language-requirements
Non-academic course entry requirements
Important: All applicants must also meet the following conditions:
· be 16 years old by 1 July 2026.
· Provide proof of:
o Right to Study in the UK. For courses with work placement, proof of your right to work in the UK is also required.
o Photographic proof of identity
· Provide translated copies of and/or demonstrate equivalency of non-UK qualifications.
Further information on non-academic course entry requirements can be found at https://www.belfastmet.ac.uk/full-time/further-education/entry-criteria-further-education
Fees:
Academic period 2026:
Fees are payable annually.
Further Education Funding - age dependent
If 19 or over on 1st July 2026 apply to Education Authority to be assessed for a FE Grant. PLAQ Code P10022.
Please be aware that any funding received may impact upon any benefits you are currently receiving.
For information and application forms for the FE Grants: www.eani.org.uk/feapplication
Most modules are assessed through a combination of coursework assignments, practical lab book, portfolio of work, case study, practical investigation and exams.
Careers
Access to University courses are widely recognised by UK Universities and many students successfully progress to a variety of degree courses such as:
• Biological Science, Biomedical Science, Biochemistry or
• Degrees related to Biology, Chemistry and Health Sciences e.g. Nursing, Occupational Therapy, Physiotherapy
• Teaching Degree
• HND in Applied Biology or Applied Chemistry
• HNC Healthcare Practice
• Foundation Degree in Biomedical Science
Interests
Biology
Chemistry
Science
Health
Medicine
Biological/Biomedical Science Gallery
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