BTEC Extended Diploma or Access to Higher Education Diploma
Hello trying to decide whether to do a BTEC Extended Diploma (2 years) or an Access to Higher Education (1 year) either in Civil Engineering or Business - does anyone have experience/advice. At this stage unsure as to whether I will proceed to University, but would like to consider higher level Apprenticeships. Thank you.
Reply 1
Hi there 
There are a few things to consider here that could affect how to answer this, but this is my advice based on the options you've listed:
The BTEC Extended Diploma is a great all-rounder option that offers flexible pathways (apprenticeships, university etc.) if you're still unsure of what you'd like to do afterwards, also this option is great if you prefer to learn in a more practical/project-led environment.
The Access to HE Diploma is also a solid option, especially if you're looking for a shorter and more intensive course, since it’s usually completed in 1 year rather than 2. That being said, I think a good starting point would be figuring out which subject you’re most interested in... Business or Civil Engineering and then factoring that into your decision based on how each subject is taught on either the BTEC Extended Diploma or the Access course.
Both qualifications are good options for different reasons, and the style of learning is quite different, so knowing which subject you prefer might make the choice clearer!
There are a few things to consider here that could affect how to answer this, but this is my advice based on the options you've listed:
The BTEC Extended Diploma is a great all-rounder option that offers flexible pathways (apprenticeships, university etc.) if you're still unsure of what you'd like to do afterwards, also this option is great if you prefer to learn in a more practical/project-led environment.
The Access to HE Diploma is also a solid option, especially if you're looking for a shorter and more intensive course, since it’s usually completed in 1 year rather than 2. That being said, I think a good starting point would be figuring out which subject you’re most interested in... Business or Civil Engineering and then factoring that into your decision based on how each subject is taught on either the BTEC Extended Diploma or the Access course.
Both qualifications are good options for different reasons, and the style of learning is quite different, so knowing which subject you prefer might make the choice clearer!
Reply 2
Original post
by Crotchet11Hello trying to decide whether to do a BTEC Extended Diploma (2 years) or an Access to Higher Education (1 year) either in Civil Engineering or Business - does anyone have experience/advice. At this stage unsure as to whether I will proceed to University, but would like to consider higher level Apprenticeships. Thank you.
@Crotchet11
Hello! I have taught on Access to HE for over 10 years, and my colleagues have taught engineering and business. They are two very distinct pathways, progressing onto a business degree is typically a bit easier in terms of UCAS tariff points for University. Different types of engineering are more competitive, however, there is a huge focus on STEM subjects in the UK.
Access is like A levels squashed into 1 year, it is perfect for learners who are 19+ but it is a steep climb, with a lot of programs having a high drop out rate. If you are 18, a BTEC over 2 years might be more suited to your progression. The unique selling point about Access is that if you had to take out an Advanced Learner Loan for the course, it is completely written off when you complete your degree - this probably doesn't apply to you, as it sounds like you haven't used up your Level 3 allocation of funding yet (A level, BTEC, Access etc).
Marc
Arden University Student Ambassador
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