Social Sciences incorporating ICS
Maths National 5
Campus Sighthill Campus
Qualification SCQF Level 5
Study mode Evening
Start date
Aug 2026
Course enquiry form
Course overview
Mathematics is rich, stimulating, engaging, and fascinating for people of all ages, interests, and abilities. Learning maths develops logical reasoning, problem-solving skills, creativity, and the ability to think abstractly. Using the universal language of numbers and symbols allows us to communicate ideas concisely and rigorously.
National 5, Higher and Advanced Higher qualifications, accredited by the SQA, act as pathways to further study, including university entry. Edinburgh College offers part-time National 5, Higher, and Advanced Higher levels. You may choose to study up to two subjects.
- Course Fees: £400 per subject. Fees will be confirmed when an application has been processed.
- Please ensure you are applying for the correct course: National 5 Mathematics. However, we also teach National 5 Applications of Maths.
- If you are pursuing a Professional Graduate Diploma in Education (PGDE), we recommend applying for National 5 Applications of Maths. This is the same level of qualification, but it is generally better suited for prospective PGDE students as the content is more relatable and beneficial.
What you will learn
Maths: Expressions and Formulae:
- Manipulation of abstract terms, the simplification of expressions
- Evaluation of formulae
- Aspects of number, algebra, geometry, and reasoning
Maths: Relationships:
- Solving and manipulating equations, working with graphs
- Carrying out calculations on lengths and angles of shapes.
- Aspects of algebra, geometry and trigonometry
Maths: Applications:
- Using trigonometry, geometry, and number processes within real-life contexts.
- Statistical calculations
- Problem-solving and reasoning skills
How the course is assessed
- The course is assessed through an SQA examination in May. You will draw on and apply the skills and knowledge you have acquired across all the units in the course, sometimes in integrated ways.
- The exam consists of two papers - one where calculators are not allowed and one where they are permitted.
Number of days per week
Part-time evening class:
- Tuesday evening, 6 PM to 9 PM at our Sighthill Campus
- Plus, a recommended minimum of at least 3 hours of self-study
Students need to attend every week at the allocated time. National 5 Maths is a demanding course, and applicants must ensure they can commit the time required to pass.
Entry requirements
- You must have gained a pass at National 4 Maths (or equivalent).
- It is recommended that you also gain a pass in National 4 English
- We cannot accept applicants with only National 4 Applications of Maths for this course.
- You should provide a personal statement to support their application, including reasons they are studying National 5 Maths.
Information on Tests / Auditions / Interview Requirements
- Applicants with appropriate maths qualifications gained more than 2 years ago will be asked to attend a skills test to assess their knowledge and suitability for the course.
- This will be in person and paper-based.
- If you need to attend a skills test, your acceptance into the course will be contingent on successfully completing it.
- There will be a minimum requirement to pass the test, ensuring applicants are equipped with the skills needed to begin the course.
- Unfortunately, resits for this skills test will not be possible until the following academic year.
English Proficiency Requirements
IELTS 5.5Career options
- The course has obvious relevance for candidates, where the maths learned will be put to direct use with interests in fields such as
- business
- computer science
- engineering
- science
- It can also be used to gain entry to a Higher Education institution in conjunction with other relevant qualifications
Study Options
| Campus | Study mode | Start date |
|---|---|---|
| Sighthill Campus | Evening | 27/08/26 |
