If your goal is to gain an HN or degree qualification, but you don’t have the grades to enter straight away, don’t worry!

Completing one of the fantastic SWAP courses delivered in partnership between Fife College and SWAP could have you ready to start your degree after only one year of full-time study.

What is a SWAP course?

Scottish Wider Access Programmes, also known as SWAP courses, are specially designed for adults who have few or no formal qualifications and who have been out of full-time education for at least three years (five years if you have Highers or above).

These courses provide an alternative route into Higher Education (that’s HNCs, HNDs, and degrees) and are designed to give adult learners the opportunity to develop the skills and confidence required to study at degree level.

These courses are full-time for one year and prepare you for entry into HNC, HND, or degree level study through recognised progression routes at Fife College and universities throughout Scotland and the UK.

For more information about SWAP, visit their website at www.scottishwideraccess.org

Why start your degree at college?

By successfully completing your SWAP course, you will be able to progress to a relevant HNC or HND course at Fife College. And did you know that an HNC and HND are equivalent to years 1 and 2 at university which means you could move on to year 3 at university with only one year to do to complete your full ordinary degree. Studying the first two years of your degree locally at Fife College will also be cheaper and more convenient than travelling or moving to university.

What SWAP courses are on offer?

So what are your options? And which course is the right one for you? Fife College offers four fantastic SWAP courses that allow for progression to degree level study in a wide range of subject areas and disciplines.

The SWAP courses offered by Fife College include:

  • National Certificate: Mechanical Engineering (including SWAP Access to Engineering)
  • Advanced Certificate: SWAP Access to Arts, Humanities and Primary Education
  • Advanced Certificate: SWAP Access to Health and Life Sciences
  • Advanced Certificate: Health and Social Care (Access to Nursing and Care HNCs)

How to get started

Ready to start your journey with Fife College towards a degree and, ultimately, an exhilarating and rewarding career in in your chosen field?

In general, you’ll need three or four National 5s at Level C or above, or equivalents, although some of the SWAP courses do not have any formal entry requirements. They’ll also consider your existing life skills and industry experience, though you might be required to complete an aptitude test and a successful interview.

Check their website for more information or give them a call. Their team will be happy to help and get you on your way.

Applications are open now. What are you waiting for?

Visit their website here and start your journey today.

This sponsored article was brought to you by Fife College.