Social Sciences incorporating ICS
English Higher
Campus Sighthill Campus
Qualification SCQF Level 6
Study mode Evening
Start date
Aug 2025
Cost
£400
(see funding options)
Course enquiry form
Course overview
Higher English will build on skills learned in National 5 English, especially the ability to understand, discuss and analyse literature such as poetry, drama, short stories and novels.
Through this, you will develop the ability to read, understand and appreciate the impact of detailed and complex language in academic, journalistic and creative contexts.
Speaking and listening skills will be practised through individual presentations and group discussions. Skills in research and planning will be developed through independent study guided by your lecturer.
National 5, Higher and Advanced Higher qualifications, accredited by the SQA, are typically studied at high school and college. These qualifications act as pathways to further study including, university entry. Edinburgh College offers a selection of subjects at National 5, Higher and Advanced Higher levels as part-time courses. You may choose to study up to two subjects.
For evening classes, you will come to college once a week for a 3-hour class. This is a National Qualification. It is an entry requirement for degree university courses (the course is not an ESOL qualification).
Course Fees: £400 per subject. Fees will be confirmed when an application has been processed.
What you will learn
- Communication skills in reading, writing, talking and listening
- Understanding, critical analysis and evaluation of complex literary texts
- The production of complex and detailed writing
- Knowledge and understanding of complex language
How the course is assessed
- The course assessment will take the form of a portfolio through which you will demonstrate your writing skills and an examination will assess your ability to write critically on set texts and demonstrate reading skills for understanding, analysis and evaluation of texts.
- Higher English is a demanding course. Students must attend all classes and study independently for at least 3 hours a week. Please consider whether you can make this commitment before applying for the course.
Number of days per week
- 2 separate evening classes per week, one on a Monday and another on a Thursday at the Sighthill campus (6 PM to 9 PM)
- For evening classes you will be required to attend college once a week for a 3-hour class
- Please state which day you would prefer on your application.
Entry requirements
- You should have recently gained an A or B in English at National 5 or Intermediate 2 level (or equivalent)
- Applicants must demonstrate the ability to work at an appropriate level by having already achieved a pass at A or B in the level below which they are applying.
- National 5 (SCQF 5) subjects - pass at National 4 (with added value unit), Intermediate 1 at A or B, or Standard Grade 3 or 4 in the subject
- Higher (SCQF 6) subjects - A or B pass at National 5 or A or B at Intermediate 2 in the subject
- Advanced Higher (SCQF 7) subjects - A or B pass at Higher
- For entry to social science subjects such as Psychology, Sociology and Politics previous study of the subject is not required. However, National 5 English is required plus another social subject at SCQF level 5
The above represents the minimum entry requirements.
These courses are challenging and require the ability to study independently. Applicants should identify clearly the reason for studying their chosen subject in their course application.
Information on Tests / Auditions / Interview Requirements
- You may be invited to sit a diagnostic test to assess your ability to meet the demands of the course.
English Proficiency Requirements
IELTS 7Progression and Articulation Routes
- Appropriate Highers, including English, may support your application to study HNC or degree courses in your preferred subject area.
- If you require Higher English to apply for a post-graduate course you should check the grade required.
Study Options
| Campus | Study mode | Start date | Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sighthill Campus | Evening | 25/08/25 |
|
