North East Scotland College (NESCol) is one of the largest providers of vocational education and training in Scotland. We have a course to suit everyone – whether you’re fresh out of school, currently working, returning to education or simply want to try something new.
We cover a wide range of course levels across a range of different subject areas, and aim to deliver inspirational teaching from each of our modern and well-equipped campuses. Coming to College can be a big step, but we have a number of expert teams in place to provide support to help you along the way.
It doesn’t matter what qualifications you have when you apply! NESCol has a variety of courses in a wide range of subject areas, from introductory to advanced level. This means that everyone can start on a course to suit their ability and experience.
Specialist training facilities include engineering labs, TV studios, photography studios, hair & beauty salons, training restaurants and kitchens, a studio theatre, computer hardware labs and more! We also have excellent study and social facilities available including Library+ at all campuses, digital skills spaces, fitness suites, common rooms, refectories and cafés.
READ MORE ABOUT OUR FACILITIES
You’ll find that learning comes to life thanks to the dedicated, industry-experienced and enthusiastic teaching staff in place to guide you through your course.
The College’s Student Advisors offer advice on anything and everything that might affect your time at College or your future education and employment – from additional learning support and funding to international student guidance, personal support and career advice.
READ MORE ABOUT OUR ADVICE CENTRES
Formal articulation links with RGU, the University of Aberdeen and many universities across Scotland mean that you could progress to university level study on successful completion of your HND (and in some cases HNC) course.
Our qualifications allow you to progress to employment with a recognised qualification and relevant industry skills. NESCol has great relationships with employers, learning geared towards work and knowledgeable Student Advisers to allow for a well-supported transition from College into a career!
We have excellent relationships with local businesses and national bodies. This means that your learning will be industry relevant. Your training and development is focused on preparing you for your future employment – including input from guest speakers, class trips, client-initiated projects and more!
The College places a strong emphasis on developing enterprise skills and confidence amongst students at all levels. Close work with organisations such as Bridge 2 Business and Elevator ensures there are many opportunities to get involved.
Students from all walks of life are welcome at North East Scotland College. Our Respect Agenda ensures that we strive to be a constructive and productive community for all students, staff and stakeholders, free from harassment and discrimination. This means that every College Campus is a diverse, interesting, safe and exciting place to be.
Although our courses are considered full time, most only require you to be in class for 18 hours per week*. This gives you plenty time to study, work, and enjoy your own free time alongside your College timetable!
*Some courses will require more than this.
Find out more about North East Scotland College.
We have 7 campuses and learning centres spread throughout Aberdeen City and Aberdeenshire.
We have a wide range of facilities and the very best of learning environments.
Further information on what happens after successfully completing your College course.
Don’t take our word for it! Find out what our students think about studying at NESCol.
“It’s a great industry to work in – there’s loads of pathways and opportunities. Engineering is about problem solving and teamwork and seeing how things work.”
“After finishing the evening course my mind was set on Sports Massage as my future career and I knew that I no longer wanted to go to University.”
“I now have qualifications and I’ve found a rewarding career that I love. I’d recommend the Highers course at NESCol to anyone who wants options for entry to a wide range of university degrees. “
” I can see already that there are many more female seafarers around today and hopefully my experiences at the SMA gives encouragement to others!”
“I feel the course has prepared me well for my new role and I’m excited to put my new skills into practice and have the opportunity to do something I love every day! “
“I’m so proud to have achieved my HND and come so far on my journey to achieving my degree. There is no age limit to education and achieving your dreams. If anyone else is thinking about returning to education, I would tell them to go for it!”
“NESCol has made a huge difference for me and I would say to anyone considering retraining to just go for it – you’ll be surprised at what you can achieve and the difference it will make in a short time. I would highly recommend college to others who have moved to Scotland from abroad, especially if you are not sure where to start with gaining qualifications. College is a great because it gives you the option to go straight into work or continue on to further study.”
“So I had a rethink and chose to go to College and get back to a more practical course. I completed the Performing Engineering Operations courses in Manufacturing and then I was offered a CNC manufacturing apprenticeship with Baker Hughes.”
“I knew I would get the chance to gain valuable work experience and get paid at the same time, and as MAs are funded by Skills Development Scotland it meant I could avoid a student loan.”
“College is different to school, it’s a lot closer to real life experience, and I’ve really enjoyed my time at NESCol.”
