Access programmes (APs) aim to encourage young adults from socioeconomic
groups that are under-represented in higher education, mature adults,
persons with disabilities and ethnic minorities, to go to university.
This chapter presents an overview of why APs are important, followed by a
review of the history of APs in Ireland. It then discusses in detail an
evaluation of the comprehensive ‘New ERA’ AP at University College
Dublin. The results of this evaluation show a positive effect of the
programme on first year exam performance, dropout rates and final
graduation outcomes. This finding is consistent for access students
entering through the standard admissions system and for those entering
with grade concessions. The chapter concludes with a discussion of
possible avenues for future research.