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HNC SOCIAL SCIENCES

  • Start date:   August 2026
  • Level of Qualification:   SCQF Level 7
  • Course Type:   Full-time

HNC SOCIAL SCIENCES

This course is for those who want to learn about competing views, perspectives, theories and evidence in social science subjects such as psychology, sociology and philosophy.

Please note: Applications for all Full-Time, Part-Time and Schools courses for August 2026 entry are now closed.
If you are interested in studying with us, applications for our January 2027 Full-Time Short Courses will open on 13th October 2026.

Applications for August 2027 entry will open in mid-January 2027. These courses will be showcased at our December Showcase Event, with full details available closer to the time.

Work-Based Qualifications (SVQs) still have spaces available, and applications are accepted throughout the year. For information on our available Work-Based Qualifications (SVQs) and how to apply, please visit our Work-Based Qualifications (SVQs) page.

Please check our website regularly for updates, course information and future application dates.

 

Start date – August 2026 
End date –  June 2027 
SCQF Level - 7 
Mode –  Full time  

On this course, you will explore the historical development of these subject areas and investigate specific topics and apply your knowledge. 

Read about Marissa Smith's West Lothian College experience here.

  • What the course includes

    • Psychology   
    • Sociology  
    • Criminology  
    • Politics  
    • Research methodology 

Why choose this course

You will have the opportunity to develop skills that will fully prepare you for higher education at university e.g. critical and evaluative thinking, problem solving, communication and presentation skills.  

The course will also include opportunities to attend subject specific conferences, go on visits and meet people who are working within the sector. 

Entry requirements

  • Two Highers – One Grade C and One Grade B. 
  • One of the Highers must be English or equivalent, and one other relevant subject for example, RMPS, psychology, sociology, modern studies, history, geography  
  • Already achieved a level 6 social science course.
  • We also encourage those with relevant experience to apply. 

If English is not your first language, ESOL Level 5 is an entry requirement for this course.   

  • Where it leads

    Education: HND Social Science at another college or Degree courses in Psychology, Sociology, Politics or Social Science-oriented Degrees such as Criminology. This may give access to other degree areas not listed here. 

    Employment: A variety of employment roles as a result of the transferable skills developed in this qualification. This could lead to roles e.g. in the health, civil services, criminal justice and the third sector. 

Selection Process

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

This course is taught by a highly qualified staff team with a vast range of teaching experience and knowledge across a variety of Social Science subjects.  

This course will give learners the opportunity to visit Livingston Sheriff Court, the Scottish Parliament and a local prison.

Fees, Finance & Funding

There may be help available to assist with your study related costs. Impartial, confidential help and advice on financial matters is available from the Student Funding Team - including Bursaries, Educational Maintenance Allowance (EMA), Student Awards Agency for Scotland, Student Loans Company and student support funds. Click here to find out more

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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.

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