Health Professions & Social Services

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Preparation for University Access to Nursing

Campus Milton Road Campus
Sighthill Campus

Qualification SCQF Level 5

Study mode Full time

Start date Aug 2026

Course overview
Entry requirements
Progression & career opportunities
Study options

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Choose your study options

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

Course overview

This fast-track course is designed for people with few or no qualifications looking to start a rewarding career as a nurse. Upon successful completion, this course will ensure you have the correct entry requirements to progress onto our Gateway to Health Care Phase 2 and University Access to Nursing course. We have a partnership with Edinburgh Napier University. Our University Access to Nursing students who are progressing well may be offered an interview for entry into year one of their Nursing degree programme.

During this course, you will attend Edinburgh College three or four days a week and study a wide range of subjects, including mental health, first aid, the human body and medical terminology. You will also have the chance to improve your numeracy and communication skills.

What you will learn

Human body
Introduction to First Aid
Understanding Mental Health
Medical Terminology
Communication in care relationships
Understanding Mental Health
Numeracy
Communication

How the course is assessed

You will be continually assessed through presentations, group work, essays and case studies.

Number of days per week

3-3.5 days per week

Entry requirements

There are no formal entry requirements.
You should have been out of formal education for at least 3 years to meet SWAP eligibility.
You should feel comfortable working at SCQF Level 4 and have strong communication skills, as you will be working with a wide range of people.
Experience working in a care setting is desirable but not essential.

Information on Tests / Auditions / Interview Requirements

You will be invited to an Edinburgh College information event to learn more about the course and take part in group activities.

English Proficiency Requirements

IELTS 5.5

Progression and Articulation Routes

University Access to Nursing taught at Edinburgh College
Another Health and Social Care-related Level 6 course taught at Edinburgh College
Gateway To Healthcare Phase 2

Career options

Nursing and other Health and Social Care professions

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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What's happening at Edinburgh College

Event

03 February 2026 - 07 February 2026

Open Days February 2026