Dietetics: Access
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Course overview
Build your confidence, refresh your science knowledge, and take the first step towards a university degree in Biology, Chemistry, or Life Sciences.
This Scottish Wider Access Programme (SWAP) course is designed for adults returning to education who want to move into biological or chemical sciences at university, or progress to HNC Applied Science here at Glasgow Kelvin College.
You’ll explore the key areas of Biology and Chemistry while developing the essential maths and communication skills that will help you succeed in higher education. The course provides a strong scientific foundation, practical experience, and study confidence - everything you need to start your journey into a science-based career.
This is a full-time, intensive course with classes between 9am and 5pm, Monday to Friday. You’ll need to plan your time carefully and consider personal commitments such as childcare, work, and finances before applying. Further information about SWAP Access courses can be found on the SWAP website.
This course is for:
- Adult learners returning to education
- Learners aiming for degree-level study in Biological or Chemical Sciences.
- Those looking for a SWAP route into a related university course or HNC Applied Science.
- People who enjoy problem-solving, experimentation, and exploring how science shapes our world.
ℹ️ This Access programme is not suitable for recent school leavers or graduates. School leavers should consider the NQ Steps to Science programme instead.
What you will learn
You’ll study a broad range of scientific and academic subjects designed to prepare you for higher education:
- Biology – explore human and plant systems, cellular biology, and environmental science.
- Chemistry – understand the structure of matter, reactions, and chemical analysis used in labs.
- Mathematics – build confidence with scientific calculations, data handling, and numeracy skills.
- Communication Skills – improve your writing, presentation, and research techniques for university study.
You’ll also gain key transferable skills such as teamwork, report writing, problem-solving, and independent learning — all essential for success at degree level.
Entry requirements
✅ You have been out of education for three years or more (Nat 5 quals) and 5 years (for Highers)
✅ You want to follow the progression routes listed in the progression opportunities section below
✅ You do not already hold a Higher National Certificate (HNC) or degree
✅ You are looking for a SWAP route into university or higher-level science study
✅ Applications are also welcomed from Care experienced student, or students that have experienced exceptional circumstances and educational disadvantage. These will be considered on a case-by-case basis by the SWAP west office.
ℹ️ Entry is competitive and based on your application and personal statement.
Your personal statement should include:
- Details of your life, work, or education experience related to the course.
- What specifically interests you about the course subject and career path.
- The skills you have that make you suited to the course (organisation, problem-solving, teamwork).
- Applications that do not include this information are unlikely to progress to interview.
Additional information:
- When you start the course, your academic skills will be reviewed to ensure you’re placed on the right programme.
- If support is needed in a particular area, we may offer an alternative pathway to give you the best chance of success.
ℹ️ For this course, if English is not your first language
- you need to have SQA ESOL Higher (or equivalent, click here to see equivalent qualifications)
- If you do not have a formal ESOL qualification but your language skills meet this level, you should apply for your course and then contact our Admissions team to organise an internal language assessment here at the College.
Career Opportunities
This course opens the door to a wide range of careers in science and research, including:
🧪 Forensic Science
💊 Pharmacology
🌊 Marine Biology
🧬 Microbiology
🐾 Zoology
⚙️ Chemical and Environmental Science
Future prospects
Successful completion allows progression to:
- Degree programmes in Biological or Chemical Sciences at universities across Scotland.
- HNC/HND Applied Science here at Glasgow Kelvin College (internal candidates are prioritised).
Graduates from these routes often move into university study or secure well-paid scientific and research roles locally and internationally - from lab work and clinical testing to biotechnology and environmental management.
