Social Science
Social Science SCQF Level 5
Campus
Milton Road Campus
Sighthill Campus
Qualification SCQF Level 5
Study mode Full time
Start date
Aug 2026
Course enquiry form
Course overview
This course is in high demand, and places fill quickly. You are advised to apply as soon as possible to secure a place.
This course will be delivered in 2 phases:
- Phase 1: August to January
- Phase 2: January to June
This course offers you the opportunity to study society and human interaction systematically. You will learn about the world beyond your immediate experiences and gain insight into why people behave, think, and feel the way they do. If you are curious about what influences human behaviour and how societies may be improved, then this course is for you.
What you will learn
The course includes:
- Psychology
- Sociology
- Social anthropology
- Politics
- Criminology
- History
In Phase 1, you will work towards the NPA Psychology as well as units in sociology, criminology and communication
In Phase 2, you will work towards the NPA Anthropology as well as units in politics, history and digital data skills
You will also gain essential, transferable skills in:
- Communication
- Critical and analytical thinking
- Meta skills
How the course is assessed
- You will be assessed through open-book assessments, essays, reports, portfolios and presentations.
Number of days per week
- 3 full days a week.
- You are expected to study independently for an additional 2 days a week.
Entry requirements
This is an academically challenging course. It is essential that you have the resilience for the physical and mental demands of this course. To succeed, you must carefully consider if you have the motivation and time to commit to this level of study.
Minimum entry requirements:
- National 4 English
- Three additional National 4s in relevant subjects (History, Modern Studies, Geography, RMPS, Health Studies, Business Studies, Maths)
- A strong personal statement in support of your application
- A successful interview, which will include a written task as well as a group task
or (for progressing students)
- A pass in the Social Science Level 4/5 NPA Criminology
- Recommendation from the Level 4/5 academic team (engagement, quality of assessments, organisational skills, motivation, and attendance (85% minimum) will all be considered).
Information on Tests / Auditions / Interview Requirements
- Everyone who meets the entry requirements will be invited to participate in a group task, a written task and a one-to-one interview.
English Proficiency Requirements
IELTS 5.5Progression and Articulation Routes
- From Phase 1, you may progress to Phase 2 Social Science courses or to other related college courses.
- From Phase 2, you may progress to Social Sciences Level 6 or to other related college courses.
Career options
Further study in the social sciences may lead to employment in:
- Local/central government
- Social Services
- Social work/community work
- Housing
- Teaching
- Police
- Criminal Justice Service
- Policy making
- Data analysis
Study Options
| Campus | Study mode | Start date |
|---|---|---|
| Milton Road Campus | Full time | 24/08/26 |
| Sighthill Campus | Full time | 24/08/26 |
