Course overview
Are you looking for your first step into a science career? If so, then this is the course for you.
The level 4 course is a one-year programme and will allow you to develop and build skills across all areas of science by completing CfE national 4 units including biology, chemistry, maths, communication and physics helping you decide which areas of science are of interest to you for future study. The course will also allow you to work on practical skills in these areas.
The College will provide you with the best chance of achieving this goal, and with our support and your positive engagement, this dream can become a reality.
The programme is designed with progression in mind and when you achieve your qualification, you can progress from this course to the level 5 Steps into Science programme.
Obtaining meaningful science qualifications requires many years of study so you must ensure you are willing to put the time in to achieve this goal. If this sounds like you, then progression through our science courses can allow you to successfully achieve a HNC (level 7) or HND (level 8) to enter employment or progress to university.
What you will learn
Course topics include:
- Biology
- Chemistry
- Investigation Skills
- Mathematics
- Computing
- Communications
- Study Skills.
The programme has been specially designed to provide a high level of support and guidance together with regular feedback on progression
Entry requirements
There are no formal entry qualification for the course, however an interest in science, and the ability to clearly demonstrate this is required.
When you start the course we will review your academic understanding and skills to ensure you are placed on the correct programme. If you need support in particular area/s we may move you to an alternative pathway to allow you the best possible chance of success.
For this course, if English is not your first language
- you need to have SQA ESOL National 5 (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.
All applications will be considered.
Entry to the course will be based upon a competitive review of the applications. Good quality applications will be offered a place so make a good effort.
You should now provide detailed information on relevant life, education and employment experience within your personal statement, in addition to demonstrating a genuine interest in the subject.
Tell us what experience you have in the subject already and about the subjects that interest you most. What skills do you have that will make you a good student for the course and give examples of these skills? A successful application will contain all this information in your personal statement so make sure you include all information that is relevant.
Your personal statement will be a significant factor in determining whether you are short listed for the programme.
It is likely that if you are short listed, you will receive a formal interview either in person or on line.
Future prospects
When you are finished your Steps to Science level 4 programme successfully, you may be eligible for progression to the Steps to Science level 5 programme.