Access to Medical Studies (SWAP)

Course Content

SWAP Access programmes are designed for adult learners who are looking for a change in career direction. The Access to Medical Studies is an extremely intensive course which aims to prepare learners academically, and to give the opportunity to develop the skills required for entry into Medicine, Dentistry, Veterinary Medicine & Pharmacy as well as many other Health & Life Science degrees. Learners will study Maths, Biology, Chemistry and Communications at Level 6 as well as Human Biology at Levels 7 & 8.

Entry Requirements

Applicants must have National 5 qualifications in Maths, Biology & Chemistry at grade B or above, or have successfully completed a Level 5 Applied Science course. They must demonstrate a high level of commitment and motivation. Applicants will be interviewed and will be required to take a maths skills test. To be an eligible SWAP Access student, applicants must have been out of full-time education for at least 3 years if they previously studied National 5 qualifications or 5 years for Higher qualifications. There are English efficiency entry requirements of 6.0 IELTS score for students who have English as a second language. Applicants must be able to evidence work/volunteering experiences relevant to their chosen degree.

Method of Assessment

Assessment is by end of unit tests/completion of course work. At the end of the year, learners will be given a grade profile in Maths, Biology and Chemistry. SWAP profile grades are the means whereby universities will consider applicants.

Future Prospects

Successful completion of the course will allow the opportunity for entry to a wide range of degree programmes, including Medicine and Dentistry at the University of Dundee. Veterinary Medicine & Pharmacy may be available as a progression route at other universities. Further information on SWAP Access programmes, including eligibility and routes to degrees is available from https://www.scottishwideraccess.org/east