Access to Higher Education

Whether you are 18 or 80, adult education can open up a world of opportunities and personal achievement - whether you want to brush up on your basic skills, improve your career prospects with a professional qualification, or simply would like to learn a subject in more depth.

We can provide you with the qualifications, top-class teaching and flexibility you're after. With our mix of supported learning and innovative course materials, you'll get an exceptional learning experience in a friendly and welcoming atmosphere.

These courses are designed for those returning to education who want to access higher education degree courses at university or college.

Higher Education Foundation Course (HEFC)

Gateshead College's Higher Education Foundation Course (HEFC) is ideal if you would like to go to university but don't have the qualifications to do so. No previous qualifications are required although you will need to demonstrate a minimum level of numeracy and literacy.

The course builds on your life skills to provide the underpinning knowledge and study skills you will need to progress to a degree or diploma course at university or college with a qualification that's equivalent in level to A Levels. 

Our HEFC is a modular, credit-based programme with a wide range of subjects from which three are chosen along with a compulsory study skills component called the HE Toolbox. The course leads to the nationally-recognised Access to Higher Education Diploma awarded by Ascentis and to the Northumbria University Foundation Certificate.

At Gateshead College we offer the following modules:

  • British Politics
  • Business Studies
  • Chemistry
  • Criminology
  • English Language
  • English Literature
  • Film Studies
  • Geography & the Environment
  • Health Studies
  • Law
  • History of Art & Visual Culture
  • Historical Studies
  • Human Biology
  • Information Technology
  • Mathematical Studies
  • Physics
  • Psychology
  • Quantitative Methods
  • Social Welfare
  • Sociology
  • Themes in Philosophy

Click here to view all HEFC courses available >

 

  • Access to Higher Education