This is a programme of study that prepares students, often mature students, although there is no age requirement, for studying at university. Access courses are designed for people who left school with few or no qualifications but who would like to study in higher education.

An accredited course certifies that a particular knowledge or competency has been reached by someone who passes it, by exam or other assessment. Organisations that provide accredited courses, such as colleges or universities, are subject to quality control processes that ensure accredited courses meet an appropriate standard.