Gain the qualifications and training you need to get into university and secure great career opportunities
At Richmond upon Thames College we offer a niche set of courses for those interested in changing their career path, preparing for and getting into university or advancing in their current careers.
Our Access to Higher Education and Higher Education courses attract students from a wide rage of ages and backgrounds and are taught in an engaging and holistic way in order to give our students all of the knowledge and skills they need to make that career transition and successfully progress to university and the workplace.
We offer a selection of niche Higher Education courses in Graphic Design, Engineering, Early Years and Computing. As well as numerous Access to Higher Education courses in Art and Design, Nursing and Health Care, Science and Humanities and Social Science.
Why Study Access to HE and Higher Education at Richmond upon Thames College
- A brand new state of the art campus with fantastic facilities
- In November 2017, Ofsted rated RuTC as GOOD in all areas including Adult Provision
- Flexible part-time or full-time study that fits around your work/ lifestyle
- Various funding options available depending on your age, employment status and qualifications
- Classes are small, allowing for ample one-to-one tutorials with teachers
- Great support services for those with counselling, study and learning needs
- Strong work-related emphasis and links to employers
- A great track record of student success
Types of higher education and access to HE courses available
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Access to HE Diplomas
If you would like to study for a degree but do not have the qualifications you need, then an Access to Higher Education course could be a great option for you. Access to HE courses attract a diverse range of students, and there is no upper age limit. You can download the OCN Access to Higher Education Diploma Guide for Learners here.
An Access to HE Diploma is a nationally recognised qualification which allows for an individual without traditional qualifications to gain new transferrable skills, start a new career path or study at university. Access to Higher Education programmes are designed for students who are aged 19 and over as of 31 August. However, if you are 18 on the 31 August please contact our Admissions team by emailing This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. so that we can discuss your options.
The Access to HE Diploma is widely recognised by UK universities, many of which actively encourage applications from students who have achieved this qualification. Most Access to HE courses can be completed in one year.
You may qualify for a Student Loan. These loans help learners aged 19+ to pay for their course including access to HE diplomas.
Below is a list of Access to Higher Education courses currently available to you at Richmond upon Thames College.
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Foundation Degrees
If you are interested in pursuing higher education opportunities but are unsure about taking on a full degree for three years or you may not have the entry requirements for an undergraduate degree, then a Foundation Degree may be an appropriate option for you.
Foundation Degrees are nationally recognised qualifications. They allow students to gain transferrable academic skills and practical, first-hand knowledge in a shorter timeframe than a traditional degree. Foundation Degrees have been created in partnership by universities, further education colleges and employers. They attract A Level leavers and mature students.
Upon successful completion of a Foundation Degree, students will have the opportunity to ‘top-up’ to a full honours degree by doing a further year of study.
You may qualify for a Student Loan. These loans help learners aged 19+ to pay for their course including foundation degrees.
Please find the Early Years Foundation Degree at RuTC below.
