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Social Science

Social Sciences Next Gen HNC

Campus Milton Road Campus

Qualification SCQF Level 7

Study mode Full time

Start date Aug 2026

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Course overview

This HNC Social Sciences Next Generation course will develop your understanding of a range of social science subjects for both academic and workplace environments in the 21st century. The mandatory unit and the social science subjects cover research and methodology as well as social science-related subjects such as psychology, sociology, politics, history and criminology.

You will be supported to develop meta-skills and higher-order thinking skills.

Throughout the course, you may decide that you would like to study for a degree that will allow you to support others, work in the criminal justice service, teach social sciences in schools/colleges, or influence social policy. The choice will be yours!

 

What you will learn

  • Psychology
  • Sociology
  • Politics
  • History
  • Criminology
  • Research Methodology
  • Communication: Practical Skills

This HNC course will enhance your employability and higher-education prospects by developing your data analysis skills and meta-skills.

How the course is assessed

  • Essays
  • Discussions
  • Presentations
  • Posters
  • Projects

 

Number of days per week

  • 3 days per week on-campus
  • You are expected to study independently for 2 days a week

Entry requirements

This is an academically challenging course. It is essential that you have the resilience to manage the challenges this course presents. You must carefully consider if you have the motivation and time to commit to this level of study.

Minimum requirements

  • Higher English Grade C or above
  • 1 Higher at Grade C or above in one of the following: Modern Studies; History; Sociology; Geography; Politics; Psychology; RMPS

Some universities require National 5 Maths. This is not included in this course, although you may choose to study National 5 Maths in the evening. 

Or

  • Pass at Social Sciences Level 6  and a Grade C (or above) in Higher Sociology
  • Recommendation from the Level 6 academic team (level of engagement, meeting deadlines, attitude to learning, and attendance will be considered). 85% minimum attendance is required. 

English Proficiency Requirements

IELTS 6

Progression and Articulation Routes

Most of our students gain 2nd year entry to university to study on a wide range of degree programmes:

  • Psychology
  • Sociology
  • Politics
  • Law
  • Criminology
  • History
  • Theology
  • International Relations
  • Social Policy
  • Geography
  • Philosophy

and many more.

Career options

Studying the social sciences will open doors for you in the following areas of employment:

  • Social services
  • Local and central government
  • Data analysis
  • Research
  • Police
  • Criminal justice service
  • Social work
  • Teaching
  • NGOs
  • Charities
  • Housing

and many more opportunities.

Study Options

Campus Study mode Start date End date
Milton Road Campus Full time 24/08/26 11/06/27

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