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.
“I really have so much to thank NESCol for. I’m sure it is an experience that will have a positive impact throughout my life.”
“My time at NESCol, and the success I achieved, wouldn’t have been possible without the dedication and support of the teaching staff. I will always be grateful for the opportunity to fulfil my aspirations of further education, combined with the unique experience and the incredible peers I met along the way.”
“Studying has been such a positive experience for me, challenging myself to learn new things when physically I’ve been limited has undoubtedly been rewarding for my mental wellbeing. I’m looking forward to learning more, achieving my degree and perhaps using it to go into teaching.”
Shay’s HND has given him knowledge and skills that are vital for running a business today including cyber resilience, e-commerce solutions and social media and knows the course has given him a solid grounding in business operations, technology and project management which will serve him well for the continued success of their family business.
“I want to let people know if they are a bit scared or worried about going to college, there’s so much help and support available. It’s a really nice place to study. It will be so worthwhile – I’m so happy I did it.”
“It has definitely been the hardest and most challenging two years of my life but also the most rewarding in so many ways. I’ve even gained a new group of friends in my classmates – we still keep in touch after finishing the course in the summer.”
“I’m so glad that I came to NESCol because it really has been a life changing experience. I think Social Sciences is a great place to be if you’re curious about the world or if there’s something that really frustrates you about the system and you’d really like to see it change. Studying an HND in Social Sciences really helped me to see the world in a better light. The department has such down to earth, friendly, normal staff and I would jump at the chance to finish my studies at the college if I could. Choose College – it really is a wonderful place!”
“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!”
“I’m living proof that it is never too late to follow your dreams. I’m amazed at how far I’ve come in such a short time and studying at NESCol really gave me the confidence to go on to university.”
“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.”
