Are you looking to take your first steps toward college or university education or jumpstart your career?
Social Sciences: Associate Degree Programme
SCQF Level 7
This one-year HNC in Social Sciences is Year 1 of the Associate Degree Programme delivered in partnership with Queen Margaret University (QMU). It offers a direct, supported route into degree-level study — with guaranteed progression to Year 2 of selected QMU programmes on successful completion.
As an Associate Student, you will be fully enrolled with QMU but will study your first year at Newbattle Abbey College, benefiting from small-group teaching, one-to-one academic support and a close-knit learning community.
You’ll gain your HNC while building the confidence, skills and experience to succeed at university.
There’s a really strong sense of support here. You feel it as you walk through the door!
Who is the course for?
This course is particularly suited to:
- Students who are ready to study at degree level but would benefit from the personalised support and small-group teaching that Newbattle offers
- Learners seeking an alternative to Advanced Highers, who want to earn an HNC qualification while progressing towards a university degree
- Individuals looking for a more personal introduction to higher education, with access to both college support and university facilities
Who is the course for?
Whether you are coming from school, home education, the workplace or another learning path, this course provides a clear, supported transition into university study.
What we do?
On this course we:
- Provide a full-time HNC in Social Sciences, equivalent to Year 1 of a degree
- Support your transition to higher education through small-class teaching and personalised academic support
- Deliver a stimulating programme of study rooted in psychology, sociology, criminology, politics and research methods
- Work closely with Queen Margaret University to ensure a seamless progression to Year 2
- Offer access to university-level resources while maintaining a college-style support system
What will I learn?
This programme is designed to:
- Develop your ability to think critically, communicate effectively and conduct research
- Provide deep insight into human behaviour, society, and cultural issues
Study a range of subjects including:
- Psychology
- Criminology
- Sociology Research and Methodology
- Narrative in Fiction and Film
On completion, you will have gained an HNC in Social Sciences (SCQF Level 7), equivalent to Year 1 of a degree programme and you will be ready to enter year 2 at Queen Margaret University.
How will I Study?
You will study full-time over one academic year. Classes take place on campus at Newbattle Abbey College and are delivered in small groups by experienced, supportive lecturers.
Alongside your college experience, you will have access to a range of QMU facilities as an Associate Student.
The course is designed to balance academic rigour with personalised learning support, ensuring you are well prepared for Year 2 at university.
