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Access to HE Diploma (Computing and Digital Technology)
Access to HE Diploma (Computing and Digital Technology)
The Access to Higher Education Diploma (Computing and Digital Technology) is a route into university without A Levels. This page explains what the qualification involves and how it's structured, giving adult learners considering a computing or digital technology-related degree the information they need to decide if it's the right route for them.
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Explore a route towards a Computing and Digital Technology related degree at university
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Study fully online with a structured schedule, while still fitting learning around work and family life
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A Level 3 qualification designed to support progression into higher education
Now available online.
Spread the cost over up to 6 months
Spread the cost over up to 6 months
Got a question?
We'd love to talk about how we can help you.
How does the Access to HE Computing and Digital Technology Diploma work?
Not sure where to begin with the Access to HE Computing and Digital Technology Diploma? This page is here to explain what the diploma involves, how it leads towards a computing or digital technology-related degree, and what to expect from studying it, so you can decide whether it's the right route for you.
The Access to HE Computing and Digital Technology Diploma is a Level 3 Access to Higher Education qualification studied 100% online with rolling start dates throughout the year. It has a minimum age of 16, although it is recommended for learners aged 19 and over, and is a common route into a computing or digital technology degree at university for adult learners and career changers.
If you'd like to find out more, register your interest below and one of our advisors will be happy to talk you through your options.
Register Your Interest
Let us know you're interested in the Access to HE Computing and Digital Technology Diploma and a Pass advisor will get in touch to talk through your options.
Access your course
Get access to your online course materials covering programming, computer systems, networking and research skills.
Tutor support for your diploma
Your diploma tutor supports you throughout the course, while unit tutors mark assignments and provide feedback as you progress.
Get your diploma
Once your assignments are completed and the required quality checks are complete, you receive your recognised Access to HE Computing and Digital Technology Diploma.
Get into University
Check which UK universities currently accept the Access to HE Computing and Digital Technology Diploma.
Other Access to HE Diplomas
Explore the other Access to HE Diplomas Pass offers across health, education, psychology and beyond.
Equivalent to 3 A Levels, Accepted by Universities
The Access to HE Diploma is equivalent to three A Levels and can carry up to 144 UCAS points, helping learners progress towards degree-level study at many universities across the UK.*
Officially Recognised Level 3 Diploma
This is a nationally recognised Level 3 qualification, regulated by the Quality Assurance Agency for Higher Education (QAA) and is Subject Descriptor Compliant.
What does this mean?Fast-Track Route into Computing and Digital Technology
Complete your Access to HE Computing and Digital Technology Diploma in as little as 6 to 9 months, giving you a faster route towards university and a future career in computing or digital technology.
100% Online Diploma, No Classroom
Study completely online with structured units, tutor support and assignment feedback, so you can work around your job, family and other commitments.
Awarded by a QAA-Recognised Body
The Diploma is regulated and awarded by a QAA-recognised Access Validating Agency.
What does this mean?Low Cost, No Hidden Fees
Clear, upfront pricing with course materials, tutor support, assessment and certification included, so you know exactly what you are paying for.
*Learners are responsible for checking that their chosen university accepts the qualification for their intended course.
Where Could an Access to HE Computing and Digital Technology Diploma Take You?
An Access to HE Computing and Digital Technology Diploma is a route towards a range of BSc degrees, including Computer Science, Software Engineering, Cybersecurity, Data Science and more. Depending on the units studied and individual university entry requirements, the options open up quickly once you're accepted onto a degree.
Computer Science and Software Engineering
A grounding in programming and computational thinking that can support progression towards computer science or software engineering degrees.
Cybersecurity
The diploma's computing units can provide a foundation for degrees in cybersecurity, ethical hacking or digital forensics.
Data Science and Analytics
A recognised alternative route for adult learners aiming towards data science, data analytics or artificial intelligence degrees.
Networking and IT Infrastructure
Units covering computer systems and networking can help build the foundation needed for IT infrastructure or systems engineering degrees.
Games Development
A pathway into games development or interactive media degrees for learners considering a future in games design and programming.
Artificial Intelligence and Robotics
Computing units can help build the foundation needed for degrees focused on artificial intelligence, machine learning or robotics.
Because up to 45 graded Level 3 credits can carry UCAS Tariff points, the diploma is treated by many universities as equivalent to three A Levels at admissions stage. You can find out more about how this works directly from UCAS's guide to Tariff points, and see how Level 3 qualifications fit into the wider UK qualifications system on GOV.UK.
Entry requirements vary by university and course, so it's always worth checking directly with your chosen institution.
1 Register Your Interest
If the Access to HE Computing and Digital Technology Diploma looks like the right route for you, register your interest below. Before you do, review the details below to make sure this diploma fits your university and career goals.
Diploma Details
Level 3 Access to Higher Education qualification awarded by a QAA-recognised Access Validating Agency
Minimum age of 16, recommended for learners aged 19+
UK address required
Designed to support progression into computing, digital technology and related degrees, subject to individual university entry requirements
2 Access your course
Course Access
Once you have registered your interest and enrolled, you can access the online platform and begin getting familiar with the course materials, structure and next steps.
Structured Learning Plan
Follow a clear unit-by-unit plan covering Programming, Computer Systems, Networking, Cyber Security and Research Skills, all aligned to computing and digital technology degree requirements.
Interactive Course Materials
Work through expert-written reading materials and guided study tasks that bring each unit of the diploma to life and prepare you for university-level study.
Ongoing Unit Tutor Feedback
Submit assignments online and receive feedback from unit tutors in line with the qualification rules, with your diploma tutor supporting you through tutorials and helping you stay on track.
3 Tutor support for your diploma
When you study your Access to HE Computing and Digital Technology Diploma with Pass, you're supported by tutors in two ways. A diploma tutor stays with you from start to finish, offering tutorials and helping you stay on track, while unit tutors change from unit to unit, marking your assignments and giving feedback against the assessment criteria.
This support is built around the arrangements for each unit, so while it isn't unlimited, it keeps the assessment process fair and gives you consistent guidance as you work through the diploma.
Tutor Support Information
Diploma tutor support from start to finish
Unit tutors who mark assignments and provide feedback for each unit
Tutorials to help learners understand the diploma structure and stay on track
Feedback provided in line with the rules and limits of the qualification
4 Get your diploma
Unlike traditional qualifications, the Access to HE Computing and Digital Technology Diploma has no fixed results day. You complete the diploma through assignments, which are marked unit by unit as you submit them, with grades issued continuously throughout the course rather than all at once.
To achieve the Access to Higher Education Diploma, you need to complete 60 credits in total:
- 15 ungraded credits from study skills-based units
- 45 graded credits from academic subject units
Once your final assignments have been graded, your work must go through the required internal verification, external verification and final awarding body ratification process before the diploma can be issued.
Once awarded, your nationally recognised Level 3 diploma is ready to support your UCAS application. The Access Validating Agency can also make your results visible to UCAS directly, helping universities verify your achievement as part of the admissions process.
5 Get into University
The Access to HE Computing and Digital Technology Diploma is widely accepted by universities across the UK as a genuine route into a computing or digital technology degree. Acceptance can vary by course and institution, so it's always worth checking your specific university's entry requirements before applying.
We've put together a full, regularly updated list of universities that currently accept this diploma, along with guidance on what to do if your chosen university isn't listed.
6 Other Access to HE Diplomas. It all starts with a Pass.
Pass offers a range of Access to Higher Education Diplomas, giving adult learners a recognised route into university across a variety of career pathways. Explore the other Access to HE Diplomas available below.
How can the UK's best Access to HE Computing and Digital Technology Diploma help you succeed?
Our market-leading diploma is built to get you into a computing or digital technology degree at university. Find out how below.
Course Onboarding
Independent Learning Plan
Course Materials and Reading
Assignment Submission
Track Your Progress
24/7 Access, 100% Online
Course Onboarding
Welcome to Your Diploma
After registering your interest in the online Access to HE Computing and Digital Technology Diploma, you will begin an onboarding process before officially starting your studies. This introduction is designed to help you understand how the qualification works, what support is available, and what to expect from the diploma before you start studying.
During onboarding, you will be walked through how the qualification works, the units you will cover, how credits and grades work, and how assignments are submitted. Once you are registered, your Independent Learning Plan will be generated and this will inform you of your study schedule.
Completing onboarding means your diploma gets off to the right start. Rather than feeling lost or unsure where to begin, you will move into your first unit with a clear understanding of how the course works.
Officially Recognised and Regulated
Find out more about the recognition, regulation and awarding body behind your Access to HE Diploma (Computing and Digital Technology).
Officially Recognised Level 3 Diploma
The Access to HE Diploma (Computing and Digital Technology) is a nationally recognised Level 3 qualification built to help adult learners move on into higher education. It's regulated by the Quality Assurance Agency for Higher Education and follows the standard requirements set for every Access to HE Diploma.
Awarded by Open Awards
Open Awards, a QAA-recognised Access Validating Agency, regulates and awards this Diploma. As the awarding body, it sets the qualification standards, oversees assessment and quality assurance, and confirms your final award once you've completed the required credits and checks.
Get support with your Maths and English qualifications
Degree courses generally expect at least two Level 2 qualifications alongside your diploma. If you haven't got Level 2 Maths and English yet, Pass can help you gain them at the same time as your Access to HE Diploma (Computing and Digital Technology).
Pass offers both GCSEs and Functional Skills qualifications, and Functional Skills tend to suit adult learners returning to study best. Both are studied fully online at your own speed, with exams sat remotely from home.
Where required, support with Functional Skills English and/or Maths can run alongside your course, helping you build towards a computing or digital technology degree with everything in place.
Be the first to access our Access to HE Diploma (Computing and Digital Technology)
By registering your interest, you’ll be among the first to know when enrolment opens for the Computing and Digital Technology diploma pathway, along with early updates and launch alerts as they happen. Our team will also keep you in the loop on course content, start dates and everything else you’ll need to plan your route into higher education with confidence.
Whether you’re just starting to weigh up your options, coming back to education as an adult learner, or ready to take your next step towards a degree in computing or tech, we’ll help you find the right way in.
There’s no obligation here – just a free, straightforward way to stay informed.
FAQs
What is the Access to HE Computing and Digital Technology Diploma and what can I do with it?
An Access to HE Diploma is a Level 3 qualification used primarily by adult learners who want to progress to a degree at university, pursue further study, or change career path. It is widely accepted by universities as an alternative to A Levels for UCAS applications, although entry requirements vary by university and course. Once completed, you can apply for a range of computing and digital technology-related degrees and go on to careers in fields such as software development, cybersecurity, data science, networking and related areas.
How long does the diploma take to complete?
Completion times vary depending on the pace you choose and how quickly you complete the required work. A fast-track pace can typically be completed in 6 to 9 months, while a more standard pace typically takes 9 to 12 months. Because the diploma is delivered fully online, you can fit study around your existing commitments, but once you begin submitting assignments there is a clear schedule to work to. Learners may be able to work faster or request extensions or study freezes where appropriate.
How is the diploma assessed?
The diploma is assessed through coursework rather than final exams. Most assessment is completed through written assignments, although some units may include other assessment formats such as presentations. You must meet all required assessment criteria across the units to achieve the diploma. Your work is marked by unit tutors and goes through internal and external quality checks before the qualification can be confirmed.
Can I study around work and family commitments?
Yes. The diploma is designed to fit around work, family and other commitments, allowing you to study flexibly and progress at a pace that suits you. Completion times vary depending on how quickly you complete the required work, with a fast-track pace typically taking 6 to 9 months, while a more standard pace is usually around 9 to 12 months. An Independent Learning Plan helps keep you on track, and depending on your circumstances, it may also be possible to work faster or request extensions or study freezes where appropriate.
How much tutor support will I receive?
Every learner receives tutor support throughout the diploma. A diploma tutor supports you across the qualification and provides tutorials to help you stay on track. Unit tutors change from unit to unit and are responsible for marking assignments and providing feedback. Tutor support is structured and provided within the permitted support arrangements for each unit, so it is not unlimited or available 24/7
Do I need any qualifications to start the diploma?
The minimum age is 16, although the diploma is recommended for learners aged 19 and over. You do not need A Levels or any prior Level 3 qualifications to start. However, most universities will expect you to have GCSE English and Maths at grade 4/C or above, or accepted equivalents, when you apply for a degree. If you do not yet have these, Functional Skills qualifications can be completed alongside or before the diploma, or if you would prefer full GCSE qualifications, online GCSE courses and exam bookings are also available in a range of subjects, including GCSE Maths and GCSE English.
Do I need a computing background before starting the diploma?
No prior computing qualifications are required to start the Access to HE Computing and Digital Technology Diploma. The diploma is designed to build your computing knowledge from the ground up through units such as programming fundamentals, computer systems and digital technology concepts, alongside study skills units that support your transition into degree-level study. This makes it a suitable route for adult learners who may not have studied computing subjects recently, or at all, since school.
Is the diploma recognised by universities?
The Access to HE Diploma is a recognised Level 3 qualification designed to support progression into higher education, and is accepted by many universities as a route into degree-level study. However, every university sets its own entry requirements, so it’s the learner’s responsibility to check that their chosen university and course will accept the diploma before applying. General guidance on how Level 3 qualifications and UCAS Tariff points work is available on UCAS’s website and GOV.UK.
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