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.

Applicants must demonstrate a high level of commitment and motivation.

Entry Requirements

Applicants must have Level 5 qualifications in Maths, Biology & Chemistry grade B or above, or have successfully completed a Level 5 applied science course. Applicants who have previously completed a SWAP course may also be eligible.

Applicants will be interviewed and will be required to take a maths skills test. To be an eligible SWAP student, applicants must have been out of full time education for at least 3 years if they previously studied level 5 qualifications, or 5 years for level 6 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

Course Overview

  • Study Type

    Full Time

  • Campus

    Kingsway Campus

  • Start Date

    01 Sep 2025

  • SCQF Level

    7

  • Duration

    32 Weeks

  • Subject Area

    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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