SWAP Access To Nursing

Intro to the course:

This Scottish Wider Access Programme (SWAP) nursing course is one of our most popular courses. It is a first step for those looking to start a career as a nurse or in the health care sector. It is designed to help you reach your potential and give you the confidence and skills for success in a college or university course. If you've few or no formal qualifications and have been out of full-time education for a period of time you could be eligible for this course.

Who is the course for?

This course is ideal for anyone wanting to start a career as a nurse. It will suit adult returners or those looking to change career or progress into the industry.

What will I study?

You'll be introduced to various healthcare subjects to enable you to progress to a university degree or a health-related field at HNC level. The course also develops confidence, core skills to maximise chances of successful progression to higher education. You'll learn through groupwork, lectures, industry visits and guest speakers.

Next step course options

• Degree programme in nursing (adult, mental health, child and learning disability) 

• HNC programmes including healthcare practice and social services

How will I be assessed?

Closed- and open-book assessments, practical assessment on placement, presentations, academic posters.

Why should I choose this course?

This is a good time to start a nursing career with increased wages, and job opportunities. This course will teach you the practical skills and theory so you can progress to university study in nursing. Our registered and practising nurse and healthcare lecturers will share their experiences with you to help you start your career in the sector.

Where can this course lead?

This course leads to work in the statutory, voluntary and independent care sectors. Career progression depends on a satisfactory Disclosure Scotland PVG check.

What are the entry requirements?

Access to Nursing is part of the Scottish Widening Access Programme (SWAP). This is for adults who want to return to education but who do not have the entry qualifications and who have been out of full-time education for at least five years.

It prepares adult returners for entry into higher education and can lead to a place at college for an HNC care course. SWAP courses have helped many adults to progress to a degree. For entry to this course you'll need: 

• interest in working with people 

• entry test 

• satisfactory reference 

• Disclosure Scotland PVG check 

• previous experience in the health and social care sector (preferred but not essential) 

What are the interview arrangements?

• Written task and professional reference, PVG check.