Our Product Development Manager, John Earland, gives six reasons why an Access to HE Diploma can set you up for career success.

You may have heard about the Access to HE Diploma, but how much do you actually know about how it can really change you as an individual and help you into the career you’ve always wanted?

Did you know, for example, that past Access to HE students have become Principals of colleges and senior staff at universities? Others have gone on to run their own businesses while others have become lawyers, teachers, nurses, doctors and so on. Suffice to say that the Access to HE Diploma opens doors for you to become the person you’ve always wanted to and can dramatically improve your career prospects.

So, let’s understand what this diploma is all about.

The QAA Access to Higher Education Diploma is a UK qualification that prepares students, especially mature learners who don’t have traditional qualifications like A-Levels, for university studies. It’s a fantastic opportunity for individuals looking to return to education, change their career, or advance in their current one. It has actually been around in one form or another for well over 30 years and every year approximately 43,000 students enrol on Access to HE Diplomas. It is a demanding and challenging qualification and quite unlike anything else. However, it is also arguably the most transformative qualification you can study. Students go on to achieve things beyond their wildest dreams and it raises aspirations in families, friends and communities. It is the ultimate in widening participation in education and the epitome of ways to improve social mobility. Yes, it’s hard work, but it is also hugely rewarding for both the student and the staff delivering and assessing it.

So, let’s explore how getting this diploma can impact your career prospects.

Opening more job opportunities: expanding the horizon of possibilities

By obtaining an Access to HE Diploma, you unlock doors to a wide range of university degrees, which in turn opens up a whole world of job opportunities. This diploma acts as a stepping stone towards diverse and fruitful career paths that may have been previously inaccessible. Numerous employment sectors place a high value on degree-level qualifications, with many employers considering them essential for certain roles. Through this diploma, you broaden your options and gain access to fields such as healthcare, education, business, and engineering, among others. The Access to HE Diploma becomes your passport to embark on a rewarding professional journey.

Boosting earning potential: reaping the financial rewards

Research consistently highlights the positive correlation between higher education and higher earning potential. Acquiring a university degree through the Access to HE Diploma puts you in a favourable position to command better financial compensation. Employers recognise the depth of knowledge and skills that graduates bring to the table, making them more attractive candidates for high-paying roles. The combination of theoretical expertise and practical competency gained through the diploma empowers you to pursue lucrative career opportunities, ultimately leading to increased financial security and a better quality of life.

Enhancing job security: equipping you for career stability

In today’s dynamic job market, having a diverse skillset is essential for ensuring job security. The Access to HE Diploma equips you not only with job-specific skills but also with transferable skills that are highly sought after by employers. These include problem-solving, critical thinking, adaptability, and effective communication. By possessing these valuable assets, you position yourself as an adaptable professional capable of thriving in various roles and industries. Employers recognise the versatility and adaptability of employees with an Access to HE Diploma, which enhances your job security and increases your desirability as an employee.

Supporting career progression: climbing the professional ladder

The Access to HE Diploma not only prepares you for initial entry into your chosen field but also acts as a catalyst for career progression. The comprehensive knowledge and practical skills acquired through this diploma enable you to take on greater levels of responsibility within your existing career. With a solid foundation in higher education, you become better equipped to seek promotions, assume leadership roles, and navigate your way up the career ladder. The Access to HE Diploma empowers you with the expertise and confidence necessary to make significant strides in your professional journey.

Enabling career change: redefining your path

For those contemplating a career change later in life, the Access to HE Diploma can be a transformative asset. It offers an entry route into university degrees that align with your desired career path, regardless of your prior experience or educational background. Whether you aspire to become a nurse, lawyer, entrepreneur, or pursue any other field, this diploma empowers you to seamlessly transition into a new area of expertise. The QAA Access to HE Diploma serves as a bridge connecting your current career to a future brimming with fresh possibilities and renewed professional fulfilment.

Personal growth: fostering a powerful transformation

Beyond the tangible benefits, the Access to HE Diploma contributes to significant personal growth and development. The journey of higher education challenges individuals to step outside their comfort zones, cultivating resilience, determination, and a growth mindset. By embracing the rigorous academic pursuit of the diploma, you gain confidence in your abilities, hone your critical thinking skills, and nurture your passion for lifelong learning. This personal development extends beyond the classroom and permeates every aspect of your life. The Access to HE Diploma empowers you to embody a positive attitude, enhancing your overall career satisfaction and enabling you to navigate future challenges with grace and tenacity.

The impact of the QAA Access to Higher Education Diploma on career prospects is profound. It serves as a gateway to higher education, unveiling employment opportunities, a heightened earning potential, enhanced job security, and a transformative personal growth journey. Whether you strive for career progression, a complete change of path, or simply desire to expand your knowledge and skills, the Access to HE Diploma becomes the driving force propelling you towards a future of professional success and fulfilment. Embrace this remarkable diploma and watch your career soar to new heights.