Social Sciences incorporating ICS
SWAP Access to Arts, Humanities, Social Sciences and Primary Teaching
Campus
Milton Road Campus
Sighthill Campus
Qualification SCQF Level 6
Study mode Full time
Start date
Aug 2026
Choose your study options
Course enquiry form
Course overview
This course is designed to help you progress to either university or HNC programmes. You will be taught by highly qualified lecturers and study several essential subjects, including Sociology, Psychology, Politics, Communication, Literature, Creative Writing, History, and Mathematics.
This is a Scottish Wider Access Programme (SWAP), which means if you have few or no formal qualifications and have been out of full-time education for at least three years, you can apply. Part-time study undertaken does not affect eligibility.
SWAP courses offer an alternative route into higher education. They will give you intensive academic preparation and the opportunity to develop the skills and confidence you need to enter higher education through recognised progression routes at colleges or universities in Scotland. You can find more information on the SWAP Website by visiting the SWAP East Portal.
Listen to the Industry Insiders podcast on Spotify or Apple Podcasts, where a primary teacher talks about her experience in the industry.
What you will learn
- Sociology
- Psychology
- Politics
- ICT
- Communication
- Literature
- Oral presentations
- History
- Mathematics
- You must pass all assessments (including an external National 5 Maths examination for those applying for primary teaching or for some psychology/criminology degrees) in order to achieve the full SWAP Access qualification
How the course is assessed
- You will be continually assessed through essays, presentations, examinations and reports.
Number of days per week
- 4 days per week on-campus delivery
Entry requirements
- There are no formal entry requirements, but you must demonstrate that you are ready to study at SCQF Level 6 as the aim of the course is to prepare you for entry into university.
Information on Tests / Auditions / Interview Requirements
If selected for an interview you will be asked to:
- complete a written assessment in literacy to ensure you have the appropriate level of skill to meet the requirements of the course
- complete a maths diagnostic test so that the maths team can assess your level in order to place you appropriately (you will be placed at National 4 or National 5 level)
Before attending the interview please have a look for the university/course you would like to apply for in December 2025 SWAP
Some university courses require National 5 Maths.The diagnostic maths test will assess your readiness to study National 5 Maths.The diagnostic test may be challenging if you have not studied maths for a while. It is recommended that you prepare for the test in advance National 4 Maths - BBC Bitesize
The SQA has National 5 Maths past papers National 5 Mathematics - Course overview and resources - SQA
English Proficiency Requirements
IELTS 6.0Progression and Articulation Routes
- Apply to university to study arts, social sciences or primary teaching
- Studying at HNC level in social science or creative industries
Study Options
| Campus | Study mode | Start date |
|---|---|---|
| Sighthill Campus | Full time | 24/08/26 |
| Milton Road Campus | Full time | 24/08/26 |
