Higher Education the unconventional way – If you want to go to University but don’t have the right qualifications, our Access courses can help.
These courses are designed for people like you who want to study something they’re interested in and get ready for higher-level education. They give you what you need to start University.
A lot of students who take these courses go on to study things like Nursing, Psychology, Sociology, and more.
Did you know? Working-age graduates earned £10,000 more than non-graduates in 2018 and had higher employment rates.
Drop down the sections below to see our available courses
Studying an Access to Higher Education Diploma is such a fabulous experience at Northern College. It is the most diverse, friendly and supportive educational place I have been. It's also super beautiful.
Rated by Ofsted as a Good Provider
student pass rate for 2023-24
of students rated the College as good or outstanding in supporting them to improve their confidence to learn
“I started with a couple of short courses to build my confidence and now I have finished my Pre-access in social studies.” - Samantha
Learn more about Samantha's story
Amazing college and amazing tutors. I can't believe how quick the time went. I've left not only achieving my Diploma in Humanities and Social Science; I've also taken with me confidence and aspirations to be the best I can be.
They do everything they can to support you and help you, and it really does feel like a little community whether you live there or not. My confidence has grown immensely since starting here and I will miss coming when my Access to Higher Education Diploma is finished!
It's a life changing place. I started the access course in 2013 without a qualification to my name and not much hope. Last year I started my PhD. I'm now a different person.
Northern College for adults changed my life. I did short courses and an Access to Higher Education course. I am now a midwife with a first class degree.
If doesn’t matter where you are in your learning journey – we can help you find the best place to start.
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We have a whole team to support you through your studies to make sure you do well.
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We can offer you all the advice you need about course fees, funding support and Advanced Learner Loans.
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Our students tell it best – find out more about their own journeys.
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