Medical Studies and Allied Health: Access

What you will learn

You’ll study a wide range of science-based subjects and core skills to prepare for university entry, including:

• Biology – human anatomy, physiology, and cellular biology
• Chemistry – essential chemical principles and laboratory techniques
• Mathematics – numerical reasoning and data analysis for science
• Communication – academic writing, presentation, and study skills

You’ll also build transferable skills such as problem-solving, critical thinking, and independent learning - all key to success at degree level.

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.  

If your application is successful, you will be invited into the college for a selection event.  Several dates will be made available to you. This event will include an interview (where we will discuss aspects of your application in more detail), a short test (to assess your science, maths and communications skills) and a chance for you to ask questions and see the college.  

ℹ️ Entry is competitive and based on your application, personal statement and performance at interview.

Personal Statement Requirements:

• Include the following in your application:
• Details of relevant work or voluntary experience in health, science, or animal care.
• Your career aims and the university route you wish to pursue.
• Examples of your skills, motivation, and commitment to study.

Applications missing this key information are unlikely to progress to interview.

Additional requirements:

• Applicants must satisfy the Protection of Vulnerable Groups (PVG) (Scotland) Act 2007 criteria for health-related study.
• Initial academic review at course start ensures you are placed on the correct pathway; adjustments may be made to support 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 a wide range of health-science careers, including:

⚕️ Medicine 

🦷 Dentistry 

🐾 Veterinary Medicine 

💊 Pharmacy 

🧪 Biomedical or Life Sciences 

🩺 Physiotherapy and Allied Health Professions

It also supports future employment in research, laboratory science, or healthcare roles.

Future prospects

Successful completion allows direct progression to:

• University of Glasgow: Medicine (MBChB), Dentistry (BDS), Veterinary Medicine (BVMS)
• University of Strathclyde: Pharmacy (MPharm)
• Glasgow Caledonian University: Biomedicine and Oral Health
• University of the West of Scotland, University of Stirling, and SRUC: various Life Science degrees
• Many learners also progress internally to HNC Science programmes at Glasgow Kelvin College.

As an internal candidate, you will be prioritised for places. Completing these courses can open doors to a wide range of well-paid roles in healthcare, research, and scientific industries worldwide.