Advanced Biochemical Sciences: Access
Read more
Course overview
Take your first step towards a university degree in Dietetics and start building a rewarding career helping others lead healthier lives.
This Scottish Wider Access Programme (SWAP) course is designed for adults who want to return to education and progress to university to study Dietetics or other Life Science–based degrees. Further information about SWAP Access courses can be found on the SWAP website.
The course provides the scientific foundation needed for higher education and focuses on Biology, Chemistry, and Core Skills such as Communication and Mathematics. You’ll gain confidence in your academic ability while preparing for degree-level study in a friendly, supportive environment.
This is a full-time, intensive course - learners must be able to commit fully to study between 9am and 5pm, Monday to Friday. It’s ideal for those who have been out of education for at least three years and are ready to re-engage with learning.
This course is for:
- Adults learners returning to education
- Learners who want to progress to a Dietetics degree or Life Science course
- Those who do not already hold a Higher National Certificate (HNC) or degree
- Students looking for a SWAP route into university or higher-level science study
ℹ️ This Access programme is not suitable for recent school leavers. If you’ve just left school, please consider applying for our NQ Steps to Science courses instead.
What you will learn
You’ll study a range of science and academic preparation subjects, including:
- Biology – explore human systems, nutrition, and biological processes
- Chemistry – study the structure of matter and essential chemical principles
- Mathematics – build problem-solving and numerical confidence for scientific study
- Communication Skills – develop your writing, presentation, and academic English
You’ll also gain essential study habits and confidence for university-level learning, supported by tutors experienced in teaching adult returners.
Entry requirements
✅ You have been out of education for three years or more (Nat 5 quals) and 5 years (for Highers)
✅ You want to follow the progression routes listed in the progression opportunities section below
✅ You do not already hold a Higher National Certificate (HNC) or degree
✅ You are looking for a SWAP route into university or higher-level science study
✅ Applications are also welcomed from Care experienced student, or students that have experienced exceptional circumstances and educational disadvantage. These will be considered on a case-by-case basis by the SWAP west office.
ℹ️ Entry is competitive and based on your application and personal statement.
Your personal statement must include:
- Details of your life, work, or education experience related to the course.
- What specifically interests you about the course subject and career path.
- The skills you have that make you suited to the course (organisation, problem-solving, teamwork).
- If this information is missing, your application is unlikely to progress.
When you start the course, we will review your academic understanding to make sure you’re on the best pathway for your success.
ℹ️ For this course, if English is not your first language
- you need to have SQA ESOL Higher (or equivalent, click here to see equivalent qualifications)
- If you do not have a formal ESOL qualification but your language skills meet this level, you should apply for your course and then contact our Admissions team to organise an internal language assessment here at the College.
Career Opportunities
This course can lead to university and careers in:
🥗 Dietetics
💊 Nutrition Science
🏥 Healthcare Support
🔬 Life Sciences
Dietetics graduates work in hospitals, community health settings, education, research, and private practice.
Future prospects
This Access to Dietetics course prepares adults without formal qualifications for degree-level study in Dietetics or related Life Science disciplines.
Successful completion can lead to:
- University degree programmes in Dietetics, Nutrition, or Biomedical Science
- HNC Science programmes at Glasgow Kelvin College
- Future employment in health, nutrition, or scientific roles
Learners who complete the HN Science route often progress directly to university or move into well-paid positions within the growing science and healthcare sectors.
