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Social Science

Introduction to Social Sciences and Self

Campus Milton Road Campus
Sighthill Campus

Qualification SCQF Level 4

Study mode Full time

Start date Aug 2026

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Course overview

This course is now full at our Sighthill Campus; applications can only be made for our Milton Road campus.

You are advised to apply as soon as possible. This is a very popular course, and spaces fill quickly. 

This social science course takes you on a thought-provoking journey of discovery. It will help you understand yourself, your relationship with others and your place in the world. 

You also explore the world beyond your immediate experiences. By studying different cultures and understanding human interactions, social scientists can help build a better future for all. 

You have the opportunity to debate contemporary issues that are important to you and to study these issues through the lens of a social scientist.

The course takes a thematic approach to emphasise how philosophy, social anthropology, psychology and sociology all overlap. The focus is on real-world issues, which allow you to connect academic content to the world around you. You are encouraged to think critically about themes, question assumptions and explore different perspectives. 

What you will learn

The units you will study:

  • Introduction to Moral Philosophy Level 4
  • Introduction to Social Anthropology Level 4
  • Coping Strategies and Building Resilience Level 4
  • Introduction to Psychology Level 4
  • Introduction to Sociology Level 4
  • Local Investigation Level 4

You will also be developing essential, transferable skills:

  • Meta skills
  • IT
  • Communication

How the course is assessed

  • Continual assessment with portfolio evidence
  • Project
  • Written work
  • Presentations

Number of days per week

  • 3 full days per week
  • You will be expected to study independently for at least 1 additional day per week

Entry requirements

  • You should have achieved or be working towards National 4 English or an equivalent.
  • You should have achieved or be working towards at least one social science qualification.
  • You should demonstrate an interest in the social sciences in your personal statement.
  • You will need to pass the group task, the written task and the one-to-one interview

Information on Tests / Auditions / Interview Requirements

  • Everyone who meets the entry requirements will be invited to participate in a group task, written task and one-to-one interview.

English Proficiency Requirements

IELTS 5.5

Progression and Articulation Routes

  • Social Sciences Level 4 with NPA Criminology Level 5
  • Introduction to Social Services Level 5
  • Other related Level 5 courses

Career options

This course is designed to help you progress to further study and will not directly lead to employment in the field of social sciences.

This course will provide a stepping stone to careers in the following areas:

  • local and central government
  • criminal justice service
  • teaching
  • policing 
  • urban planning
  • social work
  • housing
  • charities

and many more opportunities.

Study Options

Campus Study mode Start date
Milton Road Campus Full time 24/08/26
Sighthill Campus Full time 24/08/26

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