Find a course
arc blue
ddl

Gateway to Psychology and Social Sciences

  • Start date:   January 2026
  • Level of Qualification:   SCQF Level 4
  • Course Type:   Short Full-time

Gateway to Psychology and Social Sciences

Please note: This course is now full. If you apply, you will receive an email confirming that the course is full. Should a place become available, we will contact you, but we cannot guarantee this. Some courses still have availability- please check our website for the most up-to-date information on course availability. Alternatively, you can contact our Enquiries and Admissions team at choosecollege@west-lothian.ac.uk

This course is designed to give you the opportunity to gain introductory knowledge of the Social Sciences.

Throughout this course, you will learn to think critically and analyse local, national and global topics, such as social and political issues, citizenship, sustainability, morality and mental health.

There will also be the opportunity to learn mathematical skills, which are essential for a career in the Social Sciences, particularly in Psychology and Criminology.

Start date - January 19, 2026  

End date - June 5, 2026  

SCQF Level - 4  

Mode  - Full Time

  • _PWP8621

    What the course includes

    The course will include developing meta skills, such as problem solving, teamwork, communication and citizenship/enterprise skills.

    The SQA units on the course include:

    • RMPS: Religious and Philosophical Questions
    • Influences on Mental Health and Modern Studies: Social Issues
    • Level 4 Maths

    These will cover a range of social, political and moral/ethical issues in the UK/Scotland, such as inequality, crime and the law, belief systems.

Why choose this course?

This course can lead to further study and career progression in the Social Sciences, and it will give you the opportunity to access other Social Science courses as you man progress through academic levels at college.

Entry requirements

Applicants should be working at SCQF Level 4 or have attained at least two National 4 qualifications or equivalent, which preferably includes English.

  • Graduation 2024

    Where it leads

    On completion of this gateway programme- learners may be able to progress onto Level 5 or Level 6 Psychology, Criminology and Social Science courses, depending on previous qualifications, while meeting the entry and success criteria of the next level.

    You will also have the opportunity to gain National 5 Maths by the end of Level 6 Psychology, Criminology and Social Science course.

    Students who have completed a degree in Social Science subjects are equipped for a range of careers in fields such as education, criminal justice, social work and research. They can pursue roles as psychologists, criminologists, political advisors, and more, contributing to positive change in communities, government, the third sector and beyond- this is just the start of the journey. 

Interview arrangements

You will be invited to a formal interview, where you will also undertake a literacy and numeracy task. You will also be allocated a small group and have to discuss a given topic and share this information with the group.

Learn more about the Selection Process for Social Science at West Lothian College – click here for full details and next steps.

arc purple
arc white

Take that next step in your career and apply for this course today. If the course is not yet open for applications, feel free to ask any questions by clicking make an enquiry.

Apply online Make an enquiry