• Pathway to Medical Schools

  • Access to Higher Education:

    Diploma in Medicine

    Level 3

    Overview

    This is an intensive yet rewarding course which is intended to provide a qualification equivalent to three A-levels, recognised by universities as sufficient for entry to medical related degree courses such as medicine, biomedical science, pharmacy, marine biology, dentistry and veterinary science.

     

    Throughout the course, you will delve into an array of units that can prepare you for the medical career you want to work towards. From cell biology and human reproduction to reproductive biology and psychology for healthcare. With a broad scope, you can use this knowledge to progress into a specified area of medical study.

     

    You will also be developing a wide range of academic study skills on the course, from essay writing to using ICT, leading you towards the Independent Academic Study unit, where you will have the chance to experience what producing a dissertation will be like, once you move onto university.

    Course Content

    Mandatory Units

    Biology

    • Cells, tissues and organs
    • Digestion and the liver
    • Homeostasis for healthcare
    • Blood, circulation and gaseous exchange
    • Medical Biochemistry
    Chemistry
    • Fundamentals of Chemistry
    • Equilibria Acids and Buffers
    • Reaction Kinetics and Energetics
    • Separation and Analysis
    • Medical Chemistry
    Other Science/Mathematics
    • Medical Physics 1
    • Medical Physics 2
    • Statistics
    Study Skills
    • Critical Thinking
    • Study Skills for Medicine
    Professional Behaviours
    • Doctor-Patient Relationship
    • Health Studies for Medicine
    Optional Units
    Biology
    • The musculoskeletal system for healthcare
    • Disease and body defence
    • Reproductive biology

    Chemistry

    • Body Chemistry
    • Drugs and food additives
    Psychology
    • Introduction to Psychology
    • Psychology and Mental Health
    • Psychology of health
    • Applied Stress Management

    Physics

    • Mechanics and Kinematics
    • Nuclear and Particle Physics
    Mathematics
    • Algebra
    • Arithmetic
    • Calculus

    Assessments

    You will be assessed through tutor assessed coursework. All assessments are internally and externally verified through a rigorous and robust process to ensure that all grading is consistent, fair and provides developmental feedback.

     

    The coursework will involve:

    • essays
    • presentations
    • examinations
    • discussions
    • a portfolio of evidence

    Entry Requirements

    • You must be at least 18 years old (17 years old if study 100% online).
    • You must have a Level 2 in Maths and English [GCSE at grade 4 (Grade C) or above]
    • If your first language is not English you will need an IELTS score of 5.5 or higher.
    • Please note: If you wish to go on to study a medicine degree, most universities require five GCSEs, including English, maths, and science at grades 7–9 (A–A* equivalent).

    Duration

    • Full-time in Reading, UK: 6 months
    • Full-time Online: 9 months
    • Part-time online: 18-24 months
    • Hybrid: 3 months online + 6 months in Reading, UK

    University Progression

    You may continue your university degree in the following areas:

    • Applied Medical Sciences
    • Biological Sciences
    • Biomedical Sciences
    • Biomedicine
    • Bioscience
    • Dentistry
    • Medical Biochemistry
    • Medical Bioscience
    • Medical Physiology
    • Medical Sciences
    • Medicine
    • Neuroscience
    • Nutrition and Dietetics
    • Occupational Therapy
    • Ophthalmic Dispensing
    • Optometry
    • Pharmaceutical Science
    • Pharmacology and Physiology
    • Pharmacy
    • Physiotherapy
    • Podiatry
    • Radiography
    • Veterinary Medicine and Science

    Further Information

    Students planning to apply for Medicine, Veterinary Science/Medicine or Dentistry should be aware that you normally will need to complete either the BMAT or UCAT exams as well as a L3 course. These exams are organised externally to the college and normally need to be completed before application (before November of the year before you attend to start).

    Important Note

    To obtain the full Access to Higher Education Diploma in Medicine (QAA), students must complete at least 50% of the course within the UK. Students who are unable to travel to the UK or wish to complete the entire course outslide of the UK will receive Level 3 Diploma in Medicine and Medical Sciences upon successful completion of the programme. The Level 3 Diploma is validated by Open College Network South East Region (trading as Laser Learning Awards).

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