96% would recommend NESCol to others.
Science
Bringing science to life.
Courses
Studying science allows you to make a significant impact on our society.
Science is essential for Scotland’s economy, driving innovation and supporting key industries including healthcare, energy and technology.
A career in science offers exciting opportunities such as contributing to groundbreaking research and solving real-world problems.
NESCol’s labs are kitted out with the latest equipment and analytical instruments, so you’ll learn essential practical skills ready for further study or employment.
View all full-time science courses
As well as a host of full-time courses, we also offer part-time science courses where you can study at a location near you with daytime, evening and weekend options.
770
life science organisations in Scotland¹
Coming to NESCol has been a great experience for me and I think it prepared me really well for the demands of university. I’m looking forward to learning more, achieving my degree and perhaps using it to go into teaching.”
Connar Duncan
Connar was employed in the oil and gas industry and returned to education to study HND Applied Science at NESCol before progressing directly into the third year of BSc Applied Sciences at RGU.
Career opportunities
Analytical Chemist, Biochemist, Biologist, Brewing Technician, Chemical Scientist, Environmental Health, Environmental Scientist, Fermentation Engineer, Food Scientist, Forensic Scientist, Geophysicist, Laboratory Technician, Marine Biologist, Medical Physicist, Microbiologist, Pharmaceutical Technician, Physical Scientist, Researcher, and Secondary School Science Teacher.
46,000
people work in life sciences in Scotland²
Where you can study
Our labs are always a hive of activity and practical work is central to the curriculum. Cloud chambers, flame tubes, fluorescence spectrometers, hydrogen and biotechnology equipment, and a range of other instruments and research resources provide the opportunity for students to build their skills and knowledge at City and Fraserburgh campuses.
Study Science in Aberdeen
- 4,500+ students
- Fitness Suite
- 4 Cafés
- Quiet & social areas
Our Aberdeen City Campus is situated in the heart of Aberdeen city centre, within walking distance of shops, restaurants, bars and cafés.
Study Science 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 4,100 full-time students responded in our Student Satisfaction and Engagement Survey, covering the 2025-2026 academic year. We are delighted to share some of the feedback we received.
"Learning at college has been incredibly fun."
96% feel safe and secure at College.
"I feel very supported in my learning and staff are very helpful."
93% feel College has helped them develop knowledge and skills for the workplace.
"Staff use their industry experience well."
Student stories
Don’t take our word for it!
Kayleigh Gillies
HNC Applied Science (Chemistry/Biology Route)
Kayleigh returned to education after her youngest started nursery, with ambitions to make a real difference to the future of medicine. She is now studying molecular and cellular biology at the University of Aberdeen.
Gordon Hannah
HNC Applied Science (Chemistry/Biology Route)
Gordon is dedicated to helping tackle climate change. After NESCol, he studied conservation biology at the University of Aberdeen, statistical ecology at St Andrews and is now working towards his PhD.
Darren Reilly
HND Applied Science (Chemistry/Physics Route)
After leaving school, Darren worked in odd jobs before a part-time course at NESCol sparked an interest in science. He is now studying physics at the University of Aberdeen and hopes to one day specialise in astrophysics or nuclear physics.
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: Scottish Development International (SDI)
² Source: Life Sciences in Scotland