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Pathways to Social Sciences

  • Qualifications National Qualifications
  • SCQF Level SCQF Level 5
  • Study mode
  • Campus Ayr, Kilmarnock, Kilwinning
  • Start date August 2026
  • Duration 18 weeks or less
More information

Attendance/Duration

Short full-time

Overview

For entry to this course you'll need: A real interest in Social Sciences Four National 4s or equivalent OR a pass in a relevant NC course at SCQF Level 4 An interview with us Or Are a continuing student who has successfully completed the August short FT Social Science course If you don't have formal qualifications, but have life experience, then we'll also consider you for a place, so please call us for a chat.

Entry Requirements

For entry to this course you'll need: A real interest in Social Sciences Four National 4s or equivalent OR a pass in a relevant NC course at SCQF Level 4 An interview with us Or Are a continuing student who has successfully completed the August short FT Social Science course If you don't have formal qualifications, but have life experience, then we'll also consider you for a place, so please call us for a chat.

Course Content

Take a look at various topics to spark your curiosity and deepen your understanding of social sciences. Here's a glimpse of what you may explore:

  • Investigate famous criminal cases: to understand the nature of crime and deviance.
  • Discover more about social psychology: unravelling how the social environment shapes thoughts, feelings, and behaviour.
  • Explore sociology: examining cultural identity and societal issues.
  • Examine current topics around equality, diversity: and their impact on individuals and society.
  • Study political systems: and the distribution of power, engaging in debates on the role of the state versus the individual.
  • Uncover the significance of historical events: from the Slave Trade to the American Civil Rights Movement.
  • Learn about population distribution, growth, and change: comparing factors affecting different regions. 

Careers and Further Study

When you complete the course, your journey doesn't end there. You may have the opportunity to:

  • Progress to a Level 6 course like Advanced Social Sciences
  • Explore diverse career options, including education, campaigning, research, media, social work, police service, voluntary sector, health, and social care.

Skills

By choosing Pathways to Social Sciences, you'll acquire not just knowledge but a set of skills that may open doors to various opportunities. Gain insights into crime, psychology, sociology, and history, developing a versatile skillset. Engage in real-world scenarios, gaining a deep understanding of societal dynamics. You will also develop your communication skills and digital skills through use of Microsoft Office 365.

Employer and Industry Links

Throughout the course you will meet with guest speakers from universities, various companies and third sector organisations as well as ex-students who have studied the course and gone on to further study. Some the organisations we work with include Thriving Communities, Police Scotland, Dundonald Castle, Kilwinning Heritage, and East, North, and South Ayrshire Councils.