Advanced Biochemical Sciences: Access
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Course overview
Build your confidence in Science, Engineering, and Maths — and take the first step towards university or a career in the STEM industries.
This Scottish Wider Access Programme (SWAP) course is designed for adults returning to education who want to progress to HNC, HND, or degree-level study in Science, Engineering, Computing, or Mathematics.
You’ll explore a wide range of subjects including Physics, Chemistry, Engineering, and Mathematics, supported by Communication and Core Skills development. It’s the perfect starting point if you want to refresh your academic knowledge, gain recognised qualifications, and open doors to exciting technical and scientific careers.
This is a full-time, intensive course, with classes timetabled between 9am and 5pm, Monday to Friday. It requires enthusiasm, focus, and a genuine interest in STEM subjects.
Delivered in partnership with SWAP West, the programme provides adults without formal qualifications a clear and supported route into higher education. Further information about SWAP Access courses can be found on the SWAP website.
This course is ideal for:
- Adults who’ve been out of education for several years and want to return to study.
- Learners who enjoy problem-solving, technology, and scientific exploration.
- Those aiming for engineering, computing, or science-related degrees or HNC/D programmes.
- Students looking for a SWAP route into university or technical higher education.
ℹ️ Not suitable for recent school leavers — please consider our NQ Science or Engineering courses instead.
What you will learn
You’ll study a broad mix of STEM subjects designed to build your academic skills and prepare you for higher-level study:
- Physics – mechanics, energy, and the physical principles behind modern technology.
- Chemistry – understanding matter, reactions, and laboratory techniques.
- Engineering – basic principles of design, mechanics, and applied problem-solving.
- Mathematics – strengthening numeracy, algebra, and data analysis skills for science and engineering contexts.
- Communication Skills – developing your ability to write, present, and explain technical ideas clearly.
Because this course covers quantitative and analytical subjects, strong mathematical skills and enthusiasm for science are essential.
Entry requirements
✅ You must have been out of formal education for at least 3 years (if you last studied at National 5 level) or 5 years (if you last studied at Higher level).
✅ You must not already hold an HNC, HND, or degree qualification.
✅ Entry is competitive, based on your application and personal statement.
Personal Statement Guidance
Your personal statement should:
- Explain why you’re interested in STEM and what motivates you to study Science or Engineering.
- Describe any work or life experience that shows your practical, problem-solving, or analytical abilities.
- Highlight your strengths in maths, science, or technology, and show how they’ll help you succeed.
- Demonstrate commitment to full-time study and enthusiasm for learning.
Incomplete or vague statements are unlikely to progress to an offer or interview.
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
Completing this course opens up future careers such as:
⚙️ Engineering Technician
🧪 Laboratory or Research Assistant
💻 Computing or Data Support Roles
🔋 Energy or Environmental Science Technician
📈 Technical Analyst or STEM Educator
Future prospects
Successful completion allows progression to:
- HNC/HND Science or Engineering programmes at Glasgow Kelvin College (internal applicants prioritised)
- Degree-level study at universities including:
- University of Glasgow
- University of Strathclyde
- Glasgow Caledonian University
- University of the West of Scotland
- University of Stirling
Graduates often continue into specialist STEM degrees or move into well-paid technical and analytical roles across Scotland’s growing engineering, computing, and life science sectors.
