ACCESS TO CRIMINOLOGY AND PSYCHOLOGY

Intro to the course:

The Access to Criminology and Psychology course is designed to prepare you for moving to our HND Social Science program. It covers a range of social science topics, with a focus on criminology and psychology whilst also developing your basic academic skills. 

The courses look as at contemporary and classic topics within social science, through engaging and innovative approaches. 

You will look at the psychology of the individual as well as considering behaviours in society. Whilst looking at the topics of criminology, you will review the reasons behind crime, the justice system, role of prisons and potential future of crime. The Access to Criminology and Psychology course covers topics that allow you to begin to develop an understanding of how society functions at both a societal level and individual level. 

Built within the course are study units which help prepare you for progression to the HNC Social Science course. 

 

Who is the course for?

This course will suit a variety of learners. You may have recently left school, but do not hold the qualifications required for HN study, or be an adult looking to return to education.

If you are not sure, we would encourage you to get in touch to discuss further. 

What will I study?

You will study a combination of units which will largely focus on criminology and psychology. Sociology and history are also covered to ensure you have a well rounded knowledge of social science, supporting progression to the HND Social Science program. 

Within the course you will study core skills designed to ensure you have the skill set and insight into Higher Education study. Communication, numeracy and ICT skills are developed with a focus on confidence in your own ability and wellbeing. 

Topics include: 

• Psychology 
• Sociology
• Criminology
• Academic Skills.

Units are subject to change. 

Next step course options

The next course options from the ‘Access to Criminology and Psychology’ includes the HNC Social Science

How will I be assessed?

The assessment approaches vary between units depending on the requirements. 

Assessment approaches can include: 

• Closed book exams
• Open book exams
• Posters
• Presentation
• Practical skills

Your lecturer for each unit will advise on the assessment approach and timescales. 

If you are worried about assessments, you can seek support from the ‘Learning hub’ within the college.

Why should I choose this course?

The Access to Criminology and Psychology course is a dynamic course that looks at past, present and future. You will engage in a variety of learning approaches as well as learn from guest speakers. 

Visits to the Scottish Parliament, local history walks and universities are organised to ensure that you gain as much insight into social science and potential career options as possible.

The course team use their subject knowledge to provide you with a progressive learning experience. 

Our campus has free on site parking, catering facilities, on site library and nursery as well as being local to the town centre.

Where can this course lead?

Whilst this course does not provide specific vocational qualifications, it does support the development of highly transferable skills for employment. Through various approaches, your communication, problem solving and critical analysis skills will become enhanced, with the ability to apply them to a variety of situations. 

What are the entry requirements?

The minimum entry requirements for the course are: 

• Demonstrating understanding of course and its demands. 
• Attendance at interview. 
• Personal statement detailing why you want to do this course and next steps 

If you are not successful in gaining a space on this course, we may offer you another course. 

What are the interview arrangements?

You will be invited to speak to a member of the team to discuss your application in more detail. 

 

Fees, finance and funding

Fees for full time is £1008

This course is eligible for Bursary.

Please note, fees are subject to change, please double-check this when enrolling in your course

If you are unsuccessful in your Bursary application, you may be liable for the full cost of course

For more information please visit the finance pages - Fees, finance and funding options.

Other information:

We will support you in your core skills and meta skills development. The course is fast paced and intense, however it is designed to ensure you are well prepared for progression to HNC Social Science

 

Full time course: 18 week course attending 3 days a week.