There are many misconceptions here.
The requirements say VB, and you ask PHP or VB? If they specifically said VB, then I'm thinking VB. They also didn't say they wanted a web application, so PHP would most likely be out anyway.
They also just said VB, not VB.NET; there is a difference. You might want to ask them if VB.NET is feasible as it will, in most cases, require the installation of a runtime.
If you're a VB neophyte, then you're not going to pick it up through online tutorials. Knowing VB is more about the syntax: it's ADO, COM, DCOM, etc.. You'll need to at least know ADO to interface with the Access database. If you're going to go .NET, you'll need to know .NET the platform before VB.NET, then ADO.NET, etc.
This would be the best intro book to VB.NET, imo.