Access to Social Sciences (SWAP)

Course Content

This course offers a range of units at SCQF levels 5 and 6 and prepares learners for higher/further education courses. Topics covered include History, Politics, Sociology, Psychology, Geography, Maths, English and ICT. Due to the range of subjects studied, this course appeals to individuals wishing to enter university courses including Architecture, Law, Social Work, Teaching, Food and Nutrition, Sport and Fitness, Nursing, Environmental Studies, Community Learning and Development and a wide range of Humanities and Social Science courses.

Entry Requirements

Suitability will be assessed through interview and diagnostic tests (e.g. a written exercise and a numeracy test). A detailed personal statement is required in your application.

For SWAP eligibility, this course requires you to have been out of full-time education for 3 years (if highest level of study is SCQF level 5) or for 5 years (if highest level of study is SCQF level 6 or above). For information on eligibility and possible progression routes, go to the SWAP website at http://www.scottishwideraccess.org.

Method of Assessment

This course contains a high academic and assessment workload. There is the option to sit final SQA Higher English and National 5 Maths exams (if required for progression) dependant on performance in these subjects.

Future Prospects

Successful completion of the programme may lead to HNC level study, or degree courses at university (e.g. Law, Primary Education, Social Work, Community Learning and Development, Social Sciences and Humanities).

For those not wishing to further their studies, this course allows progression to a wide range of careers, employment opportunities and volunteering.