Access to Higher Education (Land-based Studies)

Course Code

DHAW-Y1

Course Level

Level 3

Study Mode

Full time

Start Date

14-Sep-2026

Course Type

School Leavers

Campus

Moulton

Course Duration

1 year

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Access to Higher Education courses are ideal if you are an adult looking to study at degree level but don't have the necessary qualifications or UCAS points to gain a place at university.

The courses will cover key themes within the land-based sector but you will also learn how to conduct research, write essays and other key essential study skills that will enable you to excel once you move onto a degree level course.

On our land-based access course we run the Animal Science & Welfare pathway. However through your industry research project we can support you to explore a wider range of land-based areas including conservation, ecology, environmental sustainability and equine. Subject to student numbers and demand other land-based pathways could be considered.

Open Event

The Access to Higher Education land-based pathway consists of 13 compulsory or mandatory units that all students will complete. Plus 2 subject specialist units. The course is structured in the following way.

15 credits from ungraded units (compulsory for all students)

Core HE Study Skills 1 - Research (3 credits)
Core HE Study Skills 2 - Presentation and Reflection (3 credits)
Introduction to the Land-based Sector (3 credits)
Land-based Skills (3 credits)
Critical Thinking and Communication (3 credits)

33 credits from mandatory graded units

Biology - Laboratory Techniques (3 credits)
Biology - Cells, Transport and Processes (6 credits)
Biology - Animal Pathogens and Disease (3 credits)
Introduction to Chemistry (3 credits)
Biology - Biochemistry (3 credits)
Biology - Bioscience (3 credits)
Business - Creating a Business Proposal (6 credits)
Land-based Industry Research Project (6 credits)

12 credits from subject specialism units. Based on demand we offer the following two subject specialist units from the Animal Science & Welfare subject block.