HNC/D Social Sciences

Overview

The aim of the course is to provide sound education and training in key areas of Social Science theory, research and investigation. Key course objectives are: to develop subject knowledge in Social Science and relevant specialism; analytical, evaluative and problem solving skills; communication skills; personal effectiveness; critical thinking about social and cultural issues.

• The minimum entry qualification is two or more Higher passes at Grade C or above in relevant subjects, such as History, Modern Studies, English, OR:
• 16 relevant NQ module passes with good grades (As and Bs), including a pass in Communication at SCQF Level 6, and a satisfactory reference from the awarding centre
• Mature students may be admitted without formal qualifications.

Possession of the minimum entry qualification does not guarantee entry. Applicants are advised to ensure that their personal statement is written to a very high standard.

Successful candidates will possess a high degree of literacy, a mature attitude to studying and an ability to engage in and take responsibility for the learning process. Suitable applicants will be invited to an interview/presentation prior to being offered a place on the course. Some applicants may be required to participate in a short written exercise/activity.

Candidates with 3 Higher passes may be able to apply for the Diploma of Higher Education in Social Sciences.

More Information

Year 1

Mandatory subjects are: Research, Sociology, Psychology and Graded Unit – that develops skills and knowledge from several different disciplines offered on the course.
Optional Units include Psychology, Politics, Economics, History, IT Applications and Literature. The availability of optional subjects is dependent on demand.

Year 2

Students continue with more advanced work in the same subject areas. Criminology will be offered as an option. Successful completion of 12 appropriate credits gains the award of HNC and candidates who successfully complete 15 credits may progress to HND.

Career

Social Services, Social Work, Community/Voluntary Sector Work, Police Force, Local Government, Civil Service, Health Work, Educational Psychology and Teaching. Social Sciences offers a good general education which is a skill sought after by employers from all sectors.

Continuing study

Students leaving with an HNC are eligible to apply to year 1 of a university degree course. Exceptionally, entry to year 2 may be possible. The College has secured a limited number of guaranteed places in year 3 of the BSc at Glasgow Caledonian University.

Students qualified to HND level normally apply to year 2 of a degree course, exceptionally, year 3 may be possible. The most common paths are to one of Scotland’s universities including the BA (Hons) Social Science at Glasgow Caledonian, UWS or Strathclyde Universities. However, some students have gone on to study at Glasgow, Stirling, and many other institutions of higher learning. Alternative routes through part time study to degree level may be available at the College.

HNC - One year, starting in August.

HND - Two years, starting in August.

Riverside Campus