SWAP ACCESS TO PARAMEDICINE AND SCIENCE

Intro to the course:

This Scottish Wider Access Programme (SWAP) course is for people interested in a career in healthcare or science. 

It will develop your knowledge of the sciences and health subjects. It will give you the skills and confidence for success in a college or university course.

You will study a variety of subjects including: 

• Human Anatomy & Physiology
• Cell Biology
• Chemistry
• Applications of maths
• Academic writing
• Psychology

The units range between SCQF level 5 and SCQF level 6. 

Within the course, is a unit called ‘Preparation for HE’ which is designed to support you in developing your skills for transition to University or HNC, on successful completion of the program. 

Who is the course for?

This course is designed to support mature students who wish to return to education. 

You are expected to have been out of formal education for at least 3 years. 

The course is focussed on ensuring you have the theoretical knowledge required to progress to Higher Education be it within college, or at university. 

What will I study?

SWAP Health and science covers a multitude of disciplines including biology, chemistry, physics and anatomy. 

The units have been selected to ensure that you have a good grasp of basic scientific theory whilst being able to transfer and apply that knowledge to practical situations., 

You will study topics such as: 

• Chemistry basics - atoms, molecules and reactions. 
• Cell Biology- what are cells, what do they do and how we use them in bioscience.
• Mathematics - develop numeracy skills, critical thinking and problem solving. 
• Human Anatomy & Physiology - understand how your body works and the impact of disease and injury.
• Psychology - consider the influence of the world around is and its impact on behaviour. 
• plus many more.

In addition to the subject based units, you will study a unit called ‘Preparation for Higher Education’ that develops your skill set for transition to University or HNC, if you successfully complete the course. 

Please be advised that the units are subject to change. 

There is no placement element on this course. 

Next step course options

With this course, you are able to apply for a wide range of undergraduate degrees and HNC programs. You will be provided with support  to apply for progression routes. In addition, we ask external speakers, SWAP West organisation and former students to attend and speak to you, giving insight into their journey. 

Some of the courses that our previous students have progressed to include: 

• B.Sc Paramedic Science.
• B.Sc Human Nutrition & Dietetics. 
• B.Sc Biomedical Science
• B.Sc Oral Health
• B.Sc Chemistry with Drug Discovery
• B.Sc Applied Bioscience and Zoology
• B.Sc Marine Biology
• B.Sc Occupational Therapy
• B.Sc Podiatry
• HNC Applied Science
• HNC Healthcare Practice. 

There are many more avenues open to you. Your guidance tutor will provide you with support in considering your options and completion of UCAS and/or HNC applications. 

There are multiple HNC programs that you can apply for within the college, and your lecturer will be able to advise on this, as well as what HNC program is best suited for your progression route. 

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 science and healthcare industry within Scotland is expanding rapidly, with increases in job and academic opportunity. This course, will support you in being able to take advantage of that. 

You'll be taught by experienced staff with a background in the science and health care industry, with the chance of site visits  with organisations such as the Marine Conservation Society, the University of the West of Scotland and the Scottish Universities Environmental Research Centre.

We work closely with our University and SWAP Partners to ensure a progressive and positive learning experience. 

Where can this course lead?

The SWAP Access programs give you the ability to gain the skills required to progress in academics and gain further qualifications - be it vocational or academic. 

Previous students have gained employment as a paramedic with the scottish Ambulance Service after completing their B.Sc Paramedic Science degree, working as an Adult Nurse in the NHS following completion of a B.Sc Adult nursing as well as a Biomedical Research with the Cancer Institute following completion of a B.Ac Applied Bioscience. 

We have also had students working in conservation research following Higher Education study after their SWAP program.

What are the entry requirements?

• Out of education for a minimum of 3 years.
• No previous undergraduate/post graduate degree. 
• Personal statement detailing your reasons for applying for the course. 
• Successful interview held on campus
• Reference

What are the interview arrangements?

For the interview, you will be be sent a date and time. In the event that you wish to change this, please contact admissions. 

The session will include a short presentation on the course from a course tutor., with an individual written task to be completed on the day. You will have an individual interview to discuss the course, your understanding of the course and your desired progression route. 

Fees, finance and funding

Fees for full time is £1008

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:

This course is full time (3.5 days a week) and there is a significant amount of studying involved. It important that you ensure you will be able to allow for studying time outwith timetabled classes.

On campus, we have fantastic facilities in terms of extended learning support, study skill workshops, counselling service for students and the student service team on site to help with enquiries. 

For further information on the SWAP programs, you can visit : 

https://www.scottishwideraccess.org/west