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Pre-Access to Life Sciences (SWAP)

  • Qualifications Other Programmes
  • SCQF Level SCQF Level 5
  • Study mode Short full-time
  • Campus Kilmarnock
  • Start date August 2025
  • Duration 18 weeks or less
More information

Attendance/Duration

Short Full-Time

Overview

Pre-Access to Life Sciences (SWAP) is the first part of an intensive, two part course which will prepare hard working candidates for pursuing Scientific careers or progress onto further study in science.

Entry Requirements

For entry to this course you will need:

  • Biology or Chemistry or Physics at National 4 or above or relevant previous experience of Science.
  • It’s also for anyone who wants to develop their academic and employability skills, including adult returners who may have been out of education for a while.

Course Content

The course covers theory and practical work from a broad range of science topics including Biology, Chemistry, Forensics, Physics and National 5 Mathematics as well as core skills in ICT and Communications.

It is envisaged that in the first semester candidates will be working at the SCQF Level 5, quickly progressing onto SCQF Level 6 in the second semester.

The assessment includes: practical assessment with associated written reports, maintenance of a technical lab diary, written end of unit exams and oral presentations.

Careers and Further Study

The successful completion of this course would allow candidates to progress onto HNC Applied Science or to seek relevant employment in scientific industries.

Articulation Route

Completion of part one of the course allows progression to either:

  • Access to Life Sciences (SWAP) – University Route
  • Applied Science with Forensics (Prepare for HNC) – College Route