Diploma in Nursing
Awarded by Gateway Qualifications
Duration
9-12 months
Credits
60
Study Mode
E-Learning
Tuition Fee
£3384
Course Overview
Dreaming of becoming a nurse? This is your opportunity to turn that dream into reality. Whether nursing has always been your passion or is a new calling, this intensive, 9-month programme is your fast track to a fulfilling healthcare career. Gain the skills, confidence, and knowledge you need to succeed in this rewarding profession.
The Access to Higher Education Diploma (Nursing) is an academic qualification that prepares individuals for degree-level nursing and healthcare studies. Universities across the UK recognise this qualification, which is equivalent to A-Levels, providing a pathway to nursing and related fields.
This nine-month, fully online course, awarded by Gateway Qualifications, is designed for adults aged 19 and over who wish to enter the healthcare sector. Whether considering a career change, returning to education, or lacking formal qualifications, this diploma will provide a pathway to higher education.
Upon completion, you will be prepared to pursue a nursing degree or progress into midwifery, paramedicine, and mental health specialisations.
Entry Requirements
Eligibility Criteria
Age: Applicants must be at least 19 years old at the start of the course and reside in the UK.
English Proficiency: Proficiency in written and spoken English.
GCSEs: Grades A* - C / 9-4** or Functional Skills Level 2 in English and Maths are preferred. Recognised non-UK GCSE equivalencies may also be taken into account. However, each applicant will be assessed individually.
Commitment: Applicants are required to demonstrate their commitment to the course by submitting a personal statement.
Application Process
Online Application: Complete the application form on LPC’s website.
Interview: Attend a brief interview to assess your suitability.
Personal Statement: Submit a statement outlining your motivation for a career in nursing.
Enrolment: Once accepted, you will receive guidance on how to enrol and start your studies.
Unit Structure
The course is divided into focused, manageable units designed to build the subject knowledge and study skills needed for university-level education, the units include:
Homeostasis (GM)
Human Anatomy and Physiology (GM)
Human Reproduction and Health Related Issues (GM)
Introduction to Biology: Cells and Tissues (GM)
Research Skills for Health or Care (GM)
Professional Behaviours: Nursing and Health Professions (UM)
Numeracy in a Health Context (UM)
Care Principles (GO)
The Role of the Health or Social Care Professional (GO)
Mental Health and Illness (GO)
Introduction to Psychology (GO)
Health Psychology (GO)
Health Inequalities (GO)
Preparation for Higher Education (UO)
Academic Writing Skills (UO)
Promoting Wellbeing and Building Resilience (UO)
Notes
GM - Graded Mandatory Units
UM - Ungraded Mandatory Units
GO - Graded Optional Units
UO - Ungraded Optional Units
Progression Opportunities
Upon completion of the diploma, you can progress onto a range of degree programmes, including:
BSc (Hons) Nursing (Adult, Child, Mental Health, Learning Disabilities
BSc (Hons) Midwifery
BSc (Hons) Mental Health Nursing
BSc (Hons) Occupational Therapy
Degree Apprenticeships for Nursing and Trainee Nursing Associates
Delivery Mode and Support Structure
Fully Online Delivery: All sessions and resources are delivered online via Microsoft Teams, with OneFile used as the E-portfolio platform for assessments and feedback.
Live Sessions: Weekly live online teaching sessions are held twice a week, offering structured learning and real-time interaction. A structured timetable will help guide you through the course content and ensure consistent progression.
Learning Resources: You will have access to recorded tutorials, teaching and learning materials, course work and opportunities for peer collaboration to enhance engagement and understanding.
One to one Support: Learners benefit from individual virtual tutorials, including academic guidance, pastoral support, and feedback.
Learner Interaction & Collaboration: You will be able to engage with peers through discussion forums, breakout rooms, group activities.
Assessment & Feedback: Scheduled assessment submissions will support continuous development, with timely feedback provided to facilitate learner progression.
Formative Assessments: Ongoing quizzes using Kahoot, assignments, and feedback to monitor progress.
Summative Assessments: Question-based tasks, essays, case studies, presentations, academic poster, reports etc. (via Onefile – ePortfolio), examinations aligned with the awarding body’s requirements.
Technical Support: Technical support is available for learners experiencing any difficulties accessing course materials or using online platforms.
Commitment: While the course offers flexibility through self-paced online materials, you are expected to follow the structured timetable and dedicate regular study hours each week. Active participation in live sessions, discussions, and assessments is essential to ensure successful progression and achievement.
UCAS Points
The Access to HE Diploma (Nursing) carries UCAS tariff points, which are awarded based on the grades achieved in the 45 graded Level 3 credits. This widely recognised qualification enables learners to earn:
144 UCAS points for Distinctions,
96 points for Merits, and
48 points for Passes.
The total number of UCAS points is determined by the combination of grades obtained. Achieving higher grades enhances the likelihood of meeting university entry requirements for nursing degrees, and in many cases, may eliminate the need for a foundation year.
Key Advantages
Advanced Learner Loan: If you complete this course and then progress to a degree course, the loan you took for it will be written off.
Completely Online Delivery: Learn at your own pace and convenience, with assistance at every step of the journey.
Progression Opportunities: Upon completion, you can progress to degree programmes in Nursing (Adult, Child, Mental Health, Learning Disabilities), Midwifery, Occupational Therapy, and more.
Funding Options
This course is eligible for funding through the Advanced Learner Loan (subject to eligibility). Alternatively, you may choose to self-fund your studies.