Frequently asked questions
What will I study?
This depends upon your interests and current level of skills. After your assessment and interview we will help you find the most suitable entry route and programme. All Access pathways have a number of mandatory modules, and some offer optional modules so that you can find the right combination of subjects to meet university entrance requirements and follow your own interests.
Does my Access Diploma have to be in the same subject area as the one I study at university?
Some, but not all, university courses require you to have studied a similar subject or may have other specific requirements. Your Course Leader will be able to advise you on this at interview as will your chosen university.
How do I achieve an Access to HE Diploma?
Successful completion of the Access Diploma requires that you achieve a minimum of 60 credits. Each Access pathway has additional criteria that specify combinations of mandatory and optional units which must be achieved for successful completion.
How will I be assessed?
Assessment takes place continually. You will be set assignments for which credits will be awarded. These may include written or oral tasks, performances or tests. At the end of the academic year these assessments are externally moderated by the Open College Network (OCN) London.
What is OCN?
The OCN London is the examination body which accredits our Access Diplomas. Their accreditation means that the Access Diploma is a nationally recognised qualification and that you will receive a certificate recording your achievements on the course. You must register with OCN to undertake an Access Diploma at Morley.
What can I progress on to?
Universities recognise the Access to HE Diploma as an equivalent qualification to A-level or vocational qualifications, enabling you to apply for a course at university where this is a minimum requirement.
What support will I have?
You will receive detailed advice on your university application from a personal tutor who will offer support and guidance throughout the year. The Access Course Leaders are available at set times during the week to help with your problems and concerns.
Are there facilities to support people with young children?
Depending on your financial status, you may be able to seek support for childcare related costs through our Hardship Fund.
Are the courses accessible to people with disabilities and learning difficulties?
Morley aims to support all students in their studies. We encourage you to disclose disabilities and learning difficulties on the enrolment form and to contact us as soon as you arrive so that we can discuss your needs with you. For more information about the type of support we may be able to provide contact our Learning Support team.
When should I apply?
Applications can be made at any time from March 2013. It is advisable to apply early, particularly for those courses in the health section. Please note that the academic year starts in early September 2013.
I left school years ago; will I be able to cope with an Access Diploma?
Our Access to HE students are of a wide age range. Many people are nervous when they start an Access to HE Diploma, particularly if they haven’t been in a classroom for some time. Tutors are aware of this and take it into account in their teaching. Though you can expect the programme to be challenging, the whole purpose of an Access to HE Diploma is to help you to be successful.
What are the entry requirements?
See our Access Information page for further details.
What if I’m an overseas applicant?
We are unable to help learners based overseas to get a visa to study in the UK. If you are already based in the UK on a visa that is not dependant on you being a student you can apply for our courses. If you have been living in the EU for less than three years it is likely that we will class you as an Overseas Learner which means your fees will be higher than those for home learners. Please contact us for further advice as each case is different.
Overseas applicants for the Nursing and Midwifery pathways may not be guaranteed a place at university even if they successfully complete an Access to HE Diploma. This is because you will only be entitled to a government grant or NHS bursary to fund your university studies if you satisfy one of the following conditions:
- You have been resident in the UK throughout the three years preceding the first day of the academic year of the university course, other than for the purpose of receiving full time education
- You have settled status in the UK within the meaning of the Immigration Act 1971 on the first day of the first academic year of the course
- You have been granted refugee status or exceptional leave to remain in the UK
- You are a citizen of the European Union who has been resident in the UK for three years.
For further information contact the admissions department at your university of choice; NHS Careers or the UK Border Agency.
For the Access to Music Technology Course, do I need any software of my own?
Home access to sequencing software is desired but not required.
For the Access and Pre-Access to Music courses, will there be any performance opportunities?
Yes, there will be at least two opportunities during the year.
Is there guaranteed progression from Pre-Access courses to Access courses?
No, you will still have to apply and may be interviewed (and auditioned for Music Access). We will take into account your attendance, punctuality and work submission all of which will provide you with a good foundation of skills and a better chance of being offered a place on an Access course.
Will I be able to visit the College before I apply?
We are holding a number of open days in 2013 - find an open day.
Where can I find University Open Days?
You can find events at both London and outer-London institutions on the Open Days section of the UCAS website.