Routes into Education or Employment
Working with Communities HNC
Campus Milton Road Campus
Qualification SCQF Level 7
Study mode Full time
Start date
Aug 2026
Course enquiry form
Course overview
If you are working or volunteering with community-based groups this course, based in our Milton Road Campus is designed to provide you with an opportunity to gain a professional qualification in Community Learning and Development. You will undertake a placement in youth work, adult education or community work in the statutory or voluntary sector to give you valuable practical experience.
In addition, you will study a wide range of relevant subjects including group work, sociology, principles of community learning and development, approaches to learning, youth work and managing resources, ensuring you will be well prepared for degree-level study or employment.
The Part-Time course will be delivered in combination with the Full-Time course with attendance on Tuesdays from 9.00 AM - 4.00 PM.
What you will learn
- Principles and Practice of Community Learning
- Managing Resources
- Group Work
- Sociology
- Learning Approaches
- Adult Education
- Working with Young People
- Health Promotion
Placement information
- Students complete placement of approximately 45 days (300 hours) in a community-based organisation.
- Students can use existing paid or voluntary work for their placement or they will be supported to find a placement.
How the course is assessed
- Essays
- Short answer assignments
- Presentations
- Observation of practice
Number of days per week
Part-time
- 1 Tuesday a week in college.
- 1 days placement. This can be split over days or evenings
Full-time
- 2 days in college; Tuesday and Thursday.
- 1 Day in Placement. This can be split over days or evenings
Entry requirements
- Minimum 2 Highers or a relevant NC pass at SCQF Level 6
- Mature students without formal qualifications but with relevant experience may be considered
- All applicants will require an acceptable Protecting Vulnerable Groups (PVG) Scheme record check
Information on Tests / Auditions / Interview Requirements
- Applicants will be invited for an informal interview to discuss their experience of working with community based groups.
English Proficiency Requirements
IELTS 5.5Progression and Articulation Routes
- Students can progress to a degree in Community Education at Dundee University, Glasgow University or the University of the West of Scotland
- We will have a progression route agreed with Edinburgh University beginning in August 2024, where students can apply to progress to year two of the Undergraduate Degree in Community Work.
Career options
- Employment in youth work, adult education or community work.
Study Options
| Campus | Study mode | Start date |
|---|---|---|
| Milton Road Campus | Full time | 24/08/26 |
