SWAP Access to Nursing SCQF 6 (Online Virtual Classroom)

What is special about this course?

SWAP Access to Nursing is the perfect course for individuals aspiring to pursue a career in nursing or care but lack the necessary qualifications.

Scottish Wider Access Programmes (SWAP) are designed for adults who have few or no formal qualifications and who have been out of full-time education for at least three years (five years if you have Highers or an HN). It prepares adult returners for entry into Higher Education and can lead to a place at college or university.

The curriculum covers essential subjects relevant to nursing and care professions, including principles underpinning National Occupational Standards and Health and Social Care Standards. Emphasis is placed on cultivating a strong ethical value base essential for care workers.

SWAP nursing programmes lead on to degree programmes in Adult Nursing, Mental Health Nursing, and Learning Disabilities Nursing at partner Scottish universities.  

The following universities will consider applications from SWAP Access to Nursing students to their degree programmes:

• Edinburgh Napier University
• Glasgow Caledonian University
• Robert Gordon University
• University of the Highlands and Islands
• University of the West of Scotland

More information on progression routes including degrees, entry requirements and universities can be found using the SWAP progression route search on the SWAP website.

Please note that this course will not give you access to Midwifery.

Entry requirements

• You don't normally need any formal qualifications to apply for a SWAP access programme. Adult returners often have valuable skills and knowledge obtained through employment or personal experience and this is taken into account.

  A SWAP programme could be for you if:

• you don't have any qualifications above SCQF level 5 (Standard Grade, Int 2, GCSE or equivalent) and have been out of full-time education for at least 3 years;  OR
• you already have qualifications at SCQF level 6 or higher (Highers, A Levels, HN) and have been out of full-time education for at least 5 years;
• you are able commit to college on a full-time basis (around 18-20 hours per week);
• you aim to progress to study at university or to college to do an HNC/D.

• Non-eligibility factors

• Adults who do not have pre-settled or settled status/indefinite leave to remain in the UK would not normally be eligible. International students are not eligible.

• Students who have already successfully completed a SWAP programme are not normally eligible. 

• Students who already hold a university degree (Ordinary or Honours) are NOT eligible.
• Students who have previously studied at university, but did not complete their degree due to illness or personal circumstances, may be considered but the SWAP Office should be contacted for guidance on this before applying to college.

•  Students from the rest of the UK not currently living in Scotland must contact SWAP before applying, to discuss eligibility

• Preparation for higher education
• Understanding of Mental Health and Mental Illness
• Health Promotion
• Care: Human Development and Behaviour  
• Care: Social Influences
• Care: Values & Principles  
• Physiology and Health
• Prevention of Infection
• Introduction to Basic First Aid
• The Human Body

Equipment

Internet connection and a suitable device with headphones, microphone and camera (minimum spec) is required. Please email us if you have any concerns about connectivity or equipment.
 

Fees

Find out more about fees, fee waivers and funding options.

Funding

Students may qualify for bursary, EMA or childcare funding. Please contact your local college centre or Student Services for more information.