Your Future

Further information on what happens after successfully completing your College course

When it comes to leaving College and moving on – whether that is to continue with your education elsewhere or at university, or whether you are progressing directly into work – North East Scotland College has various arrangements in place to ensure you have the support you need.

University Links

On completing your course at North East Scotland College, you may decide that university is the next step for you. Depending on the course you have studied, you could gain direct entry into year two or three of a degree programme. This is something that many students aspire to, so the College has developed strong links with universities across the Scotland.

Find out more

Getting into Work

Many students progress to work or further education upon completion of a course at North East Scotland College, but there are lots of other options you can consider.

Keep in Touch

We urge past students to keep in touch and update us on further achievements. If you have something you’d like to share then please let us know – it could be anything from securing employment, completing a university degree, winning a competition or award or returning to College!

Gap Years

A Gap Year is an excellent opportunity to develop your personal skills and can be a positive and life-changing experience. It should be well-planned and well thought out, structured and relevant to your future plans. If successful, it can help inform decisions relevant to your future career.

Ensure that you research your options, are aware of possible costs involved and seek advice on the suitability and reliability of the companies offering Gap Year opportunities. Useful websites include:

Gap Advice
Website: www.gapadvice.org

GapGurU
Website: www.gapguru.com

Gapwork
Website: www.gapwork.com

VSO
Website: www.vsointernational.org

Worldwide Volunteering
Website: www.wwv.org.uk

Year Out Group
Website: www.yearoutgroup.org

Louise Findlay

Computing

HND Digital Design & Development (Web Development)

“I enjoy Computing because it’s such a broad field. There’s a variety of skills to learn and you can easily develop a niche. No two projects will be the same and since it’s such a fast-paced field, there are always new developments to keep abreast of.

“The computing courses give you lots of practical skills and a strong foundation to expand upon.”

Edward Flinn

Social Sciences

HND Social Sciences

“NESCol really prepared me for the step up to university. I would definitely recommend college if you don’t feel ready to go straight to university when you leave school.”

Sara Laverton

Science

HND Applied Science

“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. “

Julie Ingram

Hair, Beauty & Complementary Therapies

Body & Spa Therapies (VRQ Level 3 Diploma in Body & Spa Techniques)

“I think my story shows the diversity a career in Beauty Therapy can offer. Not only can it allow you to travel, work anywhere in the world, but also give you the choice to work in an established salon or set up your own business and become your own boss. The opportunities are endless. It’s such a fun, rewarding career and the job satisfaction from making your client feel better about themselves is priceless. “

Diane Shearer

Art, Design & Photography

HND Fashion & Textiles

“I was so nervous about starting College and felt uncertain about my abilities but NESCol completely changed that. I loved the course, learned so much from my lecturers and it gave me a new found confidence. It’s not easy at times being a busy Mum and juggling study but I have proven I can do it. When I started at NESCol I would never have believed I’d end up studying at a prestigious art school and firmly believe that my time at College has given me an advantage in coping with the demands of a degree. I’d say to any parents out there who feel they want a second chance at education to go for it and grab the opportunity with both hands, it really can change your life. “

Danielle Jam

Music, Sound Production & Drama

HND Acting and Performance

“If it wasn’t for College I wouldn’t have the confidence that I have now to market myself as an actor. I am the product so it’s a different kind of confidence that, I think, you need for yourself. College was definitely the first stepping stone for me – to take charge of my own career, to take the lead, make my own decisions with support and guidance from my tutors.”

Lee Goodwin

Sport, Fitness & Uniformed Services

Entry to Uniformed Services – Level 2 Diploma

“The air cadets boosted my passion for joining a service, and College gave me the confidence to grow as a person and develop my social skills in an environment where I felt I could thrive. It’s important to push yourself – you may surprise yourself by how much you can actually achieve.”

Andrew Emslie

Maritime

Merchant Navy Deck Officer Cadet programme

“The thought of a career where I can travel and see the world really appeals. After completing the programme I will be qualified as a Deck Officer and with sea time and further studying I can hopefully progress to Chief Officer and eventually Captain.”

Wayne Walker

Maritime

Merchant Navy Deck Officer Cadet programme

“Once I’m qualified my aim is to be a Captain of a construction vessel in the renewables sector, or Captain of a platform supply vessel. I suppose the dream is to just push myself to be the best I can be.”

James McLean

Supported Programmes

Qualification for Work: Hospitality

“It’s one of the best decisions I have ever made to continue at College. Lecturers and my classmates have helped me come out of my shell and the leadership skills that are taught on my course have helped me enormously – I feel better about myself.”