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, Interior Design, Community Learning and Development and a wide range of Humanities and Social Science courses.

Entry Requirements

Suitability will be assessed through an interview and a levelling exercise (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 National 5) or for 5 years (if highest level of study is Highers). For information on eligibility and possible progression routes, go to the SWAP website at https://scottishwideraccess.org/east .

Method of Assessment

This course contains a high academic and assessment workload. Throughout the year you will sit a mix of open and closed book assessments. There is also 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. For example students may progress onto degrees in: Law, Primary Education, Social Work, Community Learning and Development, Geography, Psychology, Criminology, Philosophy, Social Anthropology, Sociology, Media and Film Studies, International Relations, Interior Design, Food and Nutrition, Counselling, Mental Health Nursing.

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

Course Overview
  • Study Type

    Full Time

  • Campus

    Gardyne Campus

  • Start Date

    01 Sep 2025

  • SCQF Level

    6

  • Duration

    34 Weeks

  • Subject Area

    Social Science

  • Tuition fees may be paid for full-time students in Scotland subject to meeting residency requirements, applications should be made to the appropriate funding body. International Students please refer to our International fees page
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