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.
“All of the lecturers know their stuff – they are previous seagoers so they are not just teaching they are sharing.”
“The Trainee Deckhand course has prepared me well for the first 17 weeks of training, I am actually surprised how much of the basics I already know.”
“I’m a huge champion of the College and the value of practical courses they offer. My time there undoubtedly contributed to the career I have today and there is a large alumni of talented creatives working in agencies and freelance both locally, nationally and indeed globally who started out from NESCol.”
“I found studying at Fraserburgh campus very enjoyable, the staff motivated me to work hard and there were always plenty of opportunities to expand my learning and knowledge. When I first left school I had no confidence and doubted my abilities, NESCol changed that. “
“From juggling working full time, being at College and still having quality time with my daughter, it was challenging at times. Despite how hectic it was it made the experience even more worthwhile for me and the whole process was highly rewarding. “
“I loved the course and for the first time in my life felt properly challenged. It was strange at first when teaching went online but with the support of friends made on the course and the lecturers, we all got each other through.
“NESCol is a great college – it has a really relaxed atmosphere and is in a great location. It was so easy to get to after dropping my son off at nursery, and the lecturers are so encouraging and involved.”
“My time at college helped me see that I actually wanted to study psychology at university rather than a more broad-based social sciences course. If I hadn’t gone to college first, I wouldn’t have had the chance to discover that so I’m really glad I had the opportunity to properly explore the subject area before making a final decision.”
“My family were really supportive as it was quite challenging going back to College after a 12 year gap and I was also working shifts. It required a lot of dedication and commitment, but I got there!”
“I had the life experience but not the right professional qualifications. To open the door to the big opportunities as an Early Years Practitioner I knew had to gain HNC Childhood Practice and then a degree – that’s when I applied to College.”
