Access to Higher Education Diploma (Engineering)
The accredited online course that qualifies you for an engineering degree — study at your pace with instant study support and expert tutor guidance.
or £599.99/year (save 17%)
Is this course right for you?
This course is for you if…
- ✓ You want to study engineering at university
- ✓ You don't have A-levels in maths or physics
- ✓ You want to study online, around work or family
- ✓ You're looking for a career in engineering or STEM
After this course, you can…
- → Apply to engineering degrees at UK universities
- → Your Access to HE loan is written off on graduation
- → Start a career in civil, mechanical, electrical, or other engineering disciplines
You'll need…
- • To be 19 or over (no upper age limit)
- • Access to a computer or tablet with internet
- • No formal qualifications required
- • We'll assess your readiness to start
What you'll study
The Access to HE Diploma (Engineering) covers key subjects to prepare you for your degree.
Master the mathematical foundations essential for engineering — algebra, trigonometry, calculus, vectors, and matrix methods. You'll develop the quantitative skills that underpin all engineering disciplines.
Study the core physics principles that drive engineering — forces, motion, energy, waves, electricity, and thermodynamics. You'll learn to apply physical laws to real-world engineering problems.
Explore the fundamental principles of engineering design, including systems thinking, engineering processes, quality standards, and the role of engineers in solving real-world challenges across civil, mechanical, and electrical disciplines.
Investigate the properties, behaviour, and applications of engineering materials — metals, polymers, ceramics, and composites. Learn how material selection affects design, performance, and sustainability.
Develop the academic skills you need for university — essay writing, research methods, critical analysis, referencing, and time management. This module prepares you for the demands of degree-level study.
Develop practical skills in computing and computer-aided design (CAD). Learn to use digital tools for engineering design, modelling, and problem-solving — essential skills for modern engineering practice.
6 modules · 18 units · Approximately 15 hours per week study time
How you'll learn
Online Materials
Study at your pace with interactive content
Instant Study Support
Ask a question any time — get a clear answer in seconds, 24/7
Expert Tutors
Qualified humans mark your work within 5 days
Flexible Schedule
Learn around your life, work, and family
Mobile Friendly
Study anywhere on any device
Regular Feedback
Know exactly where you stand at all times
Where this course takes you
The Access to HE Diploma (Engineering) is your first step to a rewarding career.
Average graduate starting salary for UK engineers
UK universities accept Access to HE for engineering degree entry
Per month — everything included, no hidden fees
Your next step: university
This Access to HE Diploma is your pathway into a engineering degree — here's what awaits you.
Now: Access to HE Diploma
Study online with Qualvera for £69.99/month. No A-levels needed — this Level 3 qualification is the equivalent of three A-levels and is accepted by universities across the UK.
Next: Engineering Degree at University
Apply to engineering degrees using your Access to HE Diploma (up to 144 UCAS points). You can also apply for student finance to cover tuition and living costs — and your Access to HE loan is written off when you complete your degree.
Then: Qualified Engineer
Graduate and start your engineering career. Average graduate starting salary: £30,000+.
Support included with your subscription
Ask a question at midnight, get a clear answer in seconds. And if you ever need deeper help, your named human tutor is never more than a business day away.
| What you need | How it works | Response time |
|---|---|---|
| Quick question about your coursework | Intelligent study assistant | Instant — 24/7 |
| Feedback on practice work | Instant review with detailed notes | Instant — 24/7 |
| Stuck on a complex concept | Step-by-step explanation with examples | Instant — 24/7 |
| Need human guidance or reassurance | Your named, qualified tutor | Within 1 business day |
| Formal assessment marking | Human tutor reviews and grades | Within 3 business days |
Frequently asked questions
You don't need any formal qualifications. This course is designed for adult learners aged 19 and over who want to progress to a related degree at university.
The course is designed to be completed in 12 months studying around 15 hours per week. You can study at your own pace and start anytime.
Yes. The Access to HE Diploma is a nationally recognised Level 3 qualification accepted by UK universities for entry onto relevant degree programmes.
After completing the Access to HE Diploma and a relevant degree, you can pursue a career as a Engineer. Starting salaries are typically around £30,000+.
Start your engineering journey today
You've already made the hardest decision — to start. Let us help you get there.