This is an intensive course which aims to prepare you academically, and to give you the opportunity to develop the skills and confidence you need, for entry into university or HNC/D courses.
As well as providing a sound grounding in the theoretical basis of medical and life sciences, the course contains a significant amount of stimulating practical activities. Much of the practical work will be of direct relevance to local interests, industries or topical issues, and will ensure you acquire a broad base of laboratory knowledge and expertise.
Please note that all applicants must meet the below eligibility criteria.
This will be an intensive programme which in the space of one year can take you from having no formal science qualifications to being able to commence HNC/D or degree level study.
The course will be delivered in a small group setting which will ensure a large amount of individual support can be provided. Most science classes will take part in dual purpose laboratory/classrooms which will allow practical and theory to be delivered in a combined fashion assisting learning and skills development. You will experience laboratories which are equipped to an excellent standard, with a wide range of modern instrumentation.
The course will make heavy use of online and interactive learning materials delivered via the College’s Virtual Learning Environment, which can be accessed outwith the College.
This programme will include:
At the end of the programme each student is awarded a SWAP profile grading ranging from AAA-DDD. These grades are a reflection of your performance in each of the main science subjects (Maths, Biology and Chemistry) throughout the year.
There are no formal entry requirements for the course, however, you must meet the eligibility criteria.
You must also be able to demonstrate a high level of commitment and motivation. All applicants will have a personal interview and you will be advised of the most appropriate pathway. You may be required to take a Maths/English skills test to gain entry onto the course.
You must meet the following criteria:
Although you are permitted to undertake a science course such as NC in Applied Sciences (SCQF Level 5) in preparation for the SWAP programme the following session.
You will require a scientific calculator. You will also be required to bring a laptop to classes. However if you are eligible for a full bursary for the course then this will be paid for from the bursary fund.
If English is not your first language, please view the specific English language requirements for this course.
If you are studying a full-time non-advanced course (below HNC level), you may be entitled to funding.
You can apply for a full-time course online or using a paper form.
Open Days are a great way to find out more about this course and what it’s like to study at NESCol. You will see facilities, meet lecturers and get a feel for life as a student.
Our next Open Day will take place in winter 2024.
NESCol can provide extra support to students who have additional support needs, including:
You may be eligible for additional funding to support the cost of living, including travel costs, cost of materials, and childcare.
Find out more about the types of funding and whether you are eligible here
This course is a Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) programme. This means that you are required to have access to your own laptop computer, netbook or similar device in class each day that you are in college.
This may be funded or part-funded by a bursary, if you are eligible to receive one.
Whether you wish to progress in your studies or enter the world of work, North East Scotland College has excellent progression opportunities, with links to eight universities across Scotland and great relationships with industry employers.
Successful completion of this course will allow you to apply for a wide range of degree programmes at a number of partner universities — visit the SWAP website for more information. Partner universities include:
Employment opportunities at Apprentice Laboratory Technician level may be possible.
“One of my highlights so far has been getting the chance to become an Executive Officer with the Students’ Association.”
“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. “
“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.”
“I’m really glad I did the 2 + 2 Degree link with NESCol as I found myself well prepared with my lab techniques. Last year we had a practical research methods module and I found that a lot of the skills I learnt during my time at College were applicable and really helped me. I achieved an A grade for the unit and I attribute that to my time at NESCol. “
“The lecturers have been great – they are really approachable if you’re stuck with anything or want to ask questions. They have a wide range of industry experience and are very willing to share this with their students.”
North East Scotland College offers hundreds of courses each year, apply for one now.
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If you take up a place on a College course, at the start of the course you will be asked to sign an enrolment form. In signing the form and/or taking up a place on a College course, you will enter into a contract with the College and be bound by the North East Scotland College Standard Terms and Conditions of Study. Copies of the Terms and Conditions are available for inspection on notice boards and at various locations throughout the College, at the College Reception, on the College website: nescol.ac.uk, or can be obtained on request from the Student Funding and Admissions Manager, North East Scotland College, Aberdeen City Campus, Gallowgate, Aberdeen AB25 1BN. Please note that courses are offered subject to (a) there being sufficient numbers of enrolments and (b) the availability of resources. The College reserves its right (i) not to run courses where the number of students is considered insufficient or where resources are unavailable and (ii) in certain circumstances, to refuse admission to an individual applicant.
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