University Access Courses

Quick university access

An Alternate Degree Pathway to University by Onsite, Distance Learning or Blended Learning

There are many pathways to university which do not require the completion of the ‘A’ levels or its equivalent (e.g. the International Baccalaureate, NVQs, etc.). We call these University Access Courses.

Warnborough College offers a fast-track degree foundation pathway for Business students to graduate from UK and overseas universities. This is done by Onsite, Distance Learning  or Blended Learning options to allow flexibility to meet the needs of the student. All university access qualifications are through UK awarding bodies.


How does it work?

ATHE-Logo

The process works on the concept of top-up degrees.

The graphic below shows you how a student can progress from GCSEs through to a university degree, and the associated cost comparisons. Bear in mind that the Warnborough College programs include ALL study texts and case studies so there is no need to buy any additional textbooks. All awards are awarded by the ATHE, an Ofqual-approved body.

Warnborough College University Pathway Comparison
Warnborough College University Pathway Comparison

Time Comparisons

LevelQualificationCreditsEquivalent toEquivalent DurationDuration at WC
3Diploma in Management120A Levels or International Baccalaureate2 years6 - 9 months
4Extended Diploma in Management120University - First Year1 year6 - 9 months
5Extended Diploma in Management120University - Second Year1 year6 - 9 months
Total Time4 years27 months or less

After completing each level, you can apply to enter a UK or overseas university to continue at the next equivalent level. For example, after completing a Level 3, you can apply to begin a university degree. Or, after completing a level 4, you can apply to join the second year of a university degree. After completing level 5, you can apply to complete your final year of a Bachelor’s Degree at one of our partner universities.*

LevelQualificationCreditsEquivalent toEquivalent DurationDuration at WC
6Graduate Diploma in Management120Same level as a Bachelor's degree12 months6 - 9 months
7Postgraduate Diploma in Strategic Management120Part of a MBA12 months6 - 9 months

After completing Level 7 you can continue to a UK or overseas university to complete your MBA (up to 1 year).*
*Whether you complete a degree or MBA, your final award will be given by the university you have chosen.


Study Online or in a Classroom

Study Online

You can study at your own pace, wherever you want, as long as you have access to the internet. We provide unlimited tutor support if you have any questions. All the learning resources are online, with interactive questions, and links to useful websites. There are no examinations, only assignments which you must submit.

Study in Canterbury

If you prefer to sit in a class, engage with other students and interact with a teacher, come and study at Warnborough College in Canterbury. Expect to spend at least 15 to 25 hours a week attending classes, workshops and seminars.

Combine both options – Blended Learning

If you are working or can’t attend classes all the time, you can still have the best of both worlds. Speak to us to see how we can help you.