This course is for you if you have been out of education for some time and do not have the formal qualifications normally required for entry to further and higher education. If you are interested in studying computing and progressing onto University, the Access course will help you develop the knowledge and skills required to enter Higher Education.
All applications to Higher Education Courses must be made through UCAS, however please ring us for advice on this process and we will support you with your application.
This one year course is fast paced and requires self-motivation and determination in order to be successful. Learners will be required to complete units in the following modules:-
Specialist units in:
- Computing modules covering Hardware and Software;
- Database;
- Programming and Network Fundamentals;
- Web Design;
- Imaging.
Study Skills in:
- English language
- Academic Skills
- Extended Project
You will need:
- GCSE Maths at grade 4 (C) or higher
- GCSE English at grade 4 (C) or higher
We will accept Functional Skills at Level 2 as an equivalent, but recommend that you check the entry requirements of your chosen university before applying, as many will only accept GCSEs for entry onto their degree programmes.
You will also have an interview with our course teachers at enrolment to check that the course is right for you.
Each module is assessed using a variety of criteria. You will be required to demonstrate creativity, critical thinking, evaluation, decision making, personal reflection, reading and research of relevant information, time management and effective communication skills.
Each module carries a number of assessments. Depending on the module you will be assessed through combinations of the following; written assessments, production of images, programmes, databases and websites, formal reports, presentations, in-class and practice assessments under controlled conditions, case studies, reflective statements, exams and an extended person project.
Our students have been offered places in top universities such as Glasgow, Manchester, Reading, Bath, Kings College London, Queen Marys University London, Brunel, University of Brighton, London Metropolitan University and Royal Holloway University of London. Students will be guaranteed conditional offers at London South Bank University at lower admissions requirements than their standard offer. Some decide to remain at the college and continue their studies on Level 5 Higher National Diploma in Computing and Systems Development.
This course is designed solely for progression to Higher Education. Some students have progressed to jobs such as database management, programmers, web-designers and IT sales but often with the thought of continuing education while working or at a future date. The anticipated route is to degrees and other higher education programmes e.g. HNC/HND/BSc computing related qualifications.
Our Access pathway provides study in real work-based applications of computing skills. You will develop your presentation and seminar delivery techniques. You will learn in dedicated classrooms and IT labs with the latest software and equipment including Adobe Suite software.
We will give you the opportunity to develop your skills and experience which will enable you to build on your CV.
As part of the course employer visits and guest speakers will be arranged to enhance and contextualise your learning. You will also receive support in the UCAS application process.
You will have timetabled classes over approximately 2.5 days per week.
Adult Students (19+)
If you will be aged 19 or older on 31 August before your course starts, are resident in London, and have the legal right to stay in the UK for at least 12 months, you may be eligible to study for free, depending on your circumstances and chosen course. For more information, please click here.
You may also be eligible for financial help to support with books, travel, course materials and childcare costs â please click here.
Course Fee: £4070
You may be eligible for financial help to support with books, travel, course materials and childcare costs â please click here for more information.
Please note: West London College is unable to support students requiring an Advanced Learner Loan to cover course fees for the remainder of the 2025/26 academic year. However, many students may be eligible to study with us free of charge, depending on their individual circumstances. For those who wish to pay their own course fees, we also offer a payment plan option - more information will be provided after you have applied.
