Level 3
Environmental Science – Access to HE
This Access to HE course is a one-year, full-time Level 3 course specifically designed to enable you to develop the knowledge and study skills to progress into Higher Education. You may already have some qualifications…
Quick info
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- Course type
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- Course level
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- Dates
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Course overview
This Access to HE course is a one-year, full-time Level 3 course specifically designed to enable you to develop the knowledge and study skills to progress into Higher Education.
You may already have some qualifications at GCSE, NVQ, BTEC or A Level but not enough to get to university.
“I studied the environmental science access course, it was split into three really interesting topics (biology, environmental science, and geography). It had been seven years since I stepped inside a classroom and the staff made it such a nice environment to get back into swing of things (even with COVID), there was lots of support and help and I learnt a lot of valuable skills. I now study conservation biology & ecology with the University of Exeter. The access course took me from tending to bars to spending a summer working in conservation in South Africa. Would recommend!”
– Ben Harris, Environmental Science Pathway student 2020-2021
How to apply
Find out more about our A Level pathways and how to apply
Who is this course for?
This course is for adults over 19 who want to enter Higher Education. You should already have GCSE Science, Maths and English at Grade 4 (C) or above.
What you’ll learn
The Access course will equip you with the skills and knowledge to achieve your goal. You need to be very committed to study and focused on your career choice.
You will study Environmental Science, Geography and Biology.
The Environmental Science pathway will enable you to undertake studies relating to environmental issues such as; the impact of pollution on the environment, how human’s impact on the environment, the links between ecology and the environment, sustainable futures and sustainable food production, conservation techniques and how construction techniques can support sustainability.
Environmental Science
- Core Concepts in Environmental Science
- Climate Change
- Environmental Damage and Protection
- Introduction to Ecology
- Sustainable Futures
- Geography
Handling Scientific Data
- Population Dynamics
- Extended Project
- Planning and Conducting a Scientific Investigation
- Biology
Biological Molecules and Enzymes
- Cells
- Photosynthesis and Respiration
- Use of Organisms for Genetic Purposes
Entry requirements
You will be required to include a personal statement (approximately one side of A4), within the application form. Please prepare this in advance before starting the application process.
You will need to include:
- Why you are applying for the course
- What you would like to study at university, and why
- Any experience you have in relation to the Access course, this may be educational, voluntary and/or work based
- GCSE Science, Maths and English at Grade 4 (C) or above
- Writing skills will be assessed prior to enrolment
- Knowledge of course required at university
- Strong desire to study
- Commitment to study full-time for a year
- Good organisation, motivation and enthusiasm
Future career and study
The Environmental Science pathway will enable you to start to carve out a career in the ‘green energy revolution’ by introducing you to important concepts that will naturally lead to a university course that will prepare you even further to join one of the biggest growing economic sectors on the planet.
Through studying concepts such as sustainability, ecology and alternative energies in Environmental Science, and combined with modules in Geography such as sustainability issues to do with population and resources, and modules in Biology such as nutrient cycles and plant and cell biology, you will be well prepared to further excel at university which will lead to high-level employment in a sector that will save the planet from the woes of climate change.
There are also a number of HND/Foundation Degrees at City of Bristol College.
- It is essential that you know what you want to study at university or college
- Thoroughly research your intended university course and its entry requirements before you apply for an Access course
- We recommend you visit universities on their Open Days
- We have long-established links with universities
- We offer guaranteed consideration for a Foundation Degree at City of Bristol College
Additional costs
As a City of Bristol College student, you may incur additional costs to attend your course. For example, it is likely you may need to pay for travel and stationery.
Many courses offer learning opportunities that you may need to pay for. This may include things like study visits and visiting speakers. We will let you know in advance if there will be additional costs.
If you are on a limited income, you may be able to receive help from our Learner Support Funding Bursary.