95% would recommend NESCol to others
Construction
Bringing construction to life.
Courses
Build a career in one of Scotland’s biggest industries.
Whether you see yourself as a self-employed tradesperson or contributing to major construction projects, your work will make a huge impact on communities. With the ongoing energy transition, you’ll also engage with new technologies and sustainable solutions.
Our construction courses cover hands-on trades like brickwork, joinery, painting and decorating and plumbing, as well as design and technical drawing. You’ll train in realistic spaces, supported by industry-experienced staff, so you’ll feel prepared for employment, an apprenticeship or further study.
View all full-time construction courses
As well as a host of full-time courses, we also offer part-time and distance learning in construction where you can study at a location near you or choose to study online.
26,100
people employed in construction in Aberdeen City and Aberdeenshire¹
Career opportunities
Architectural Technician, BIM Technician, Bricklayer, Building Services Technician, Building Surveyor, Construction Manager, Construction Supervisor, Joiner, Painter and Decorator, Planner, Plumber, Quantity Surveyor and Site Manager.
3,590
extra workers needed each year until 2029 in Scotland²
Where you can study
From replica home heating systems and circuit rigs for plumbing and electrical engineering students, to full scale interiors in the painting and decorating department and joinery and brickwork workshops, Altens and Fraserburgh campuses provide realistic training spaces that bring the construction disciplines to life.
Study Construction in Aberdeen
- 500+ students
- Fitness Suite
- 2 Cafés
- Quiet & social areas
Our Aberdeen Altens Campus houses many of the engineering, construction and automotive courses on offer.
Study Construction in Fraserburgh
- 950+ students
- Fitness Suite
- 2 Cafés
- Quiet & social areas
The bright and modern Fraserburgh Campus provides a fantastic environment for NESCol students, staff and visitors.
Study part-time
Part-time courses are offered at locations throughout the region.
What our students think
More than 4,000 full-time students responded in our Student Satisfaction and Engagement Survey, covering the 2024-2025 academic year. We are delighted to share some of the feedback we received.
"A very supportive and welcoming community of staff from all departments and students."
96% feel safe and secure at College
"Good variety of skills taught across the curriculum."
93% feel College has helped them develop knowledge and skills for the workplace
"I enjoyed my time at College and feel it will open more opportunities for me."
Student stories
Don’t take our word for it!
Amber Kordakis
Carpentry and Joinery Apprenticeship
A former engineer in the oil and gas industry, Amber returned to education to train for a more practical role. She undertook a four-year apprenticeship through Barratt Homes and is set for a career as a joiner.
Wrights and Coopers Award 2025
Advanced Craft Carpentry and Joinery
NESCol students Daniel Carroll and Chae Reid were recognised for their outstanding craftsmanship by the Aberdeen Wrights and Coopers Incorporation. Both are building strong futures in the trade.
Katie Cruickshank
Carpentry and Joinery Apprenticeship
Katie knew she wanted a career in carpentry and joinery when she discovered woodworking at school. Following an Open Day, she started an apprenticeship with Scotia Homes, attending College on a block release basis.
Get in touch
Our student advisers can help with any application enquiries.
Contact the team directly by calling 01224 612330, dropping into your local Student Advice Centre, or by emailing studentadvice@nescol.ac.uk. Student advisors are also available on LiveChat when the chat icon appears at the bottom of our website.
¹ Source: Skills Development Scotland (SDS)
² Source: Construction Industry Training Board (CITB)