Access to HE diploma: humanities and social science (2 years, evening)

Year 1 ( Tuesdays): study skills and literature. Year 2 ( Thursdays): history and sociology. Three hours attendance a week and substantial study at home. THIS COURSE IS NOW CLOSED FOR 2011-12 APPLICANTS.

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Key course information

Dates
14/09/10 - 22/05/12

Day(s)
Tue

Duration
60 weeks

Time
18:00 - 21:15

Fees
Full fee: £673
Senior fee: £673
Concession: £128

Venue
KS - Keeley Street

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Course code
AA311*

Availability
Contact department

This course has started

It may still be possible to enrol on this course - please call 020 7831 7831 to discuss. Please note that you will have missed some course content and it may not be possible for the tutor to fully cover missed content with you. Please be advised that the published course fees will apply.

Course outline

What is the course about?

This Humanities and Social Science Access Course offers you the chance to make a fresh start in education or to build on skills and interests you already possess. It is designed to be used as a preparation for study at university by adults who lack the necessary formal qualifications and is an accredited course, leading to award of the Access Certificate through the Open College Network - London Region (OCNLR). The Access Certificate is recognised by universities as an entry qualification. The course provides a coherent two-year programme of study which combines study skills with a compulsory core of three academic subjects. It sets out to meet individual study needs and includes small group and regular one-to-one tutorials.

What topics will we cover?

Year 1 (Tuesday)
Study Skills: this sets out to increase your understanding of how you learn and to help you to learn effectively. Practice in note-taking, essay writing, reading and research skills, exam skills.
Literature: an introduction to the study of novels, poetry and drama, exploring different approaches and interpretations, and relating texts to their wider historical and cultural contexts.
Year 2 (Thursday)
History: an introduction to the study of the past through some of the major developments of the last two hundred years, such as the growth of industrial and urban society, colonialism and feminism. Sociology: an introduction to sociology in which you examine some of the ways in which social scientists attempt to describe and explain the social world.

By the end of this course you should be able to:

- tackle study tasks (e.g. researching a topic, writing an essay, making a seminar presentation, independent projects, sitting an exam) with greater confidence, understanding and skill
- think analytically and critically, and relate and interpret different kinds of material
- read and discuss a wide range of texts with confidence and understanding
- express yourself confidently both orally and on paper
- learn more effectively and with greater independence
- understand what advanced academic study involves
- gain OCNLR credits and an Access Certificate

.

What level is the course and do I need any particular skills?

Access courses are intended for adults who wish to prepare for degree or diploma courses, but have few or no formal qualifications, or have been out of education for some time. Motivation, determination and interest are the most important qualities required. You will also need to have appropriate literacy skills. Learning and dyslexia support are available through the Learning Centre. The Access Certificate is recognised by universities as an alternative qualification to A levels for applicants aged 18 and over.

How will I be taught, and will there be any work outside the class?

Classes will consist of a mixture of tutor input, discussion and debate, small group work, and student presentations. You will be asked to read in preparation for all classes and regular written assignments will be set. You should be prepared to spend 6-8 hours a week on reading and written work at home. All learning and dyslexia support is available through the Learning Centre.

Are there any other costs? Is there anything I need to bring?

A substantial amount of course material will be available in photocopied handouts but you will need to buy copies of some course set books. The Library keeps copies of all set texts but there are not enough for all students. You will also need a supply of A4 paper, pens and a ring binder. If you are on a low income, you may be able to apply to the Access Fund for help with the costs of the course (e.g. Fares, books, materials). Phone the City Lit Information and Advice Shop on 0207 492 2500 for more information.

Do I need to have an interview before I can enrol?

Yes. Before you can enrol on this course, you need to have an advisory interview with the relevant department. Without this the enrolment team will be unable to process your enrolment. Please contact the department to arrange your interview, or to find out about drop-in sessions.

What feedback will I get?

You will receive regular feedback from your tutor throughout the course, as and when appropriate. At the end of the course you and your tutor are asked to assess the progress you have made. You will get detailed written feedback from your tutors on the work you hand in, and will also be able to discuss your progress on a one-to-one basis with your personal tutor every three weeks. The work you complete during the year - both oral and written assignments - will be assessed and you will gain credits which count towards your Access Certificate.

How will I be able to give my views on the course?

Please complete the evaluation form at the end of your course. These are monitored and help us to continually improve our courses.

How do I find out if I can get some support for my learning?

You may be interested in: education and careers advice; financial and childcare support; disability support; support for Deaf and hearing-impaired students; dyslexia support; study support; counselling, and library services (supported learning centre). To find out what may be available to you, and how to apply, see page 189 of the 09-10 course guide, or visit www.citylit.ac.uk/students

When I've finished, what course can I do next?

Full or part-time degree courses in humanities or social science subjects (e.g. English, Philosophy, Anthropology, Film Studies, Sociology, History, Politics, Archaeology etc.) Recent popular destinations for our students include: University of London (Goldsmiths College, Queen Mary College, SOAS, Kings College, University College); University of Sussex; University of Westminster.
Other advanced courses (e.g. certificates or diplomas) in further or higher education.

General information and advice on courses at City Lit is available from the Information and Advice Shop, open Monday to Friday 12:00 – 19:00 during term time, and Monday to Friday 12:00 – 17:00 out of term time. See the course guide for term dates and further details.

Who can I contact for further information?

Tel: 020 7492 2610

freshhorizons@citylit.ac.uk

Contact us

Access to higher education

Tel: 020 7492 2610

freshhorizons@citylit.ac.uk

Access to higher education

An Access course is the ideal stepping stone if you want to apply for a university course but are lacking the necessary qualifications