National Certificate in Social Sciences
SCQF Level 6
The National Certificate (NC) in Social Sciences is a full-time course designed to develop your knowledge of society, human behaviour and the world around you.
Whether you're a school leaver looking to build on your qualifications or an adult learner interested in progressing to higher study or employment, this course offers a strong academic foundation in the humanities and social sciences.
You’ll explore key ideas and debates across a range of subjects, develop critical thinking and communication skills, and prepare for further study at Higher National or degree level.
The teachers at Newbattle Abbey are inspirational and fantastic. I love to learn here!
Social Sciences
This qualification offers direct progression to the HNC in Social Sciences at Newbattle, forming part of our Associate Degree pathway, and can also lead to HNC programmes at other colleges or universities.
Whether you are leaving school, transitioning from home learning or returning to education later in life, the NC is a valuable stepping-stone to further study or employment.
Who is the course for?
This course is ideal for:
- Anyone interested in exploring social, cultural and psychological questions in greater depth
- You should be ready to engage with academic learning at SCQF Level 6 and be open to developing your written and analytical skills.
Who is the course for?
This course is ideal for:
- Learners without traditional qualifications. This course is particularly suited to individuals who may have been home-schooled or followed a non-traditional learning path.
- It offers a structured, welcoming, and academically rigorous bridge into formal education and supports progression into higher-level programmes.
What we do?
On this course we:
- Introduce students to key disciplines in the humanities and social sciences
- Build critical thinking, communication and academic writing skills
- Provide a strong foundation for further study in social science or related subjects
- Explore big ideas around society, identity, culture and behaviour
- Create a nurturing learning environment where diverse experiences are recognised and valued
- Prepare you for progression to HNC-level study, employment or the Associate Degree Programm at Newbattle
What will I learn?
This course is designed to:
- Develop your knowledge and understanding of human behaviour and society
- Support your personal growth and confidence in a college setting
- Build transferable skills for study and employment
Subjects can include:
- Psychology , Criminology, Sociology, Child Development, Literature and Communications
How will I Study?
This is a full-time course delivered over a single academic year (36 weeks).
You will attend college for four days each week, with some additional independent study required. All students benefit from small class sizes, a supportive college team, and access to study support throughout the course.