Health Professions
Social Services HNC
Campus Sighthill Campus
Qualification SCQF Level 7
Study mode Full time
Start date
Aug 2026
Course enquiry form
Course overview
If you want to get into a challenging career, have development opportunities, and make a real difference in people’s lives, then social services could be perfect for you.
Although social service workers can be office-based, much of their day is usually spent working with people in the community, in a care home, in a person’s own home, in a day centre, in a hospital, or in other settings. Most people come into contact with a social worker at some point in their lives, so you can understand how important good quality service can be.
At Edinburgh College, you will undertake theoretical and practical work to prepare you for work in the sector. There are part-time and full-time options available, so you can study this HNC in whichever way suits you.
This qualification is recognised by the Scottish Social Services Council (SSSC) for many jobs within the social care sector, and you will be well prepared for a whole range of further related studies.
What you will learn
- Care in Contemporary Society
- Leadership starts with me
- Health, Wellbeing and Safeguarding
- Lifespan development theoretical approaches
- Care Practice
- Social Care: Graded Unit 1
- In addition, three optional units have yet to be determined (SVQ Units)
- Promote Effective Communication
- Promote Health, Safety and Security in a Workplace Setting
- Develop your Practice Through Reflection and Learning
Placement information
- You will have a placement 2 days per week if you are on a full-time course.
- If you are studying part-time, you would be expected to be already working in a relevant care setting that will provide you with evidence to complete work at level 7.
- You must complete at least 60 days of placement in a social care setting. We organise placements for you in a range of settings, including working with people with learning disabilities, physical disabilities, mental health issues, and people who are homeless and work with young people.
- It is essential to be aware that social care work placements often involve shift work.
How the course is assessed
- HN units are mainly assessed by reports and project-based work, with a few closed-book assessments.
- SVQ units are assessed by completing a portfolio based on your work on placement.
Number of days per week
- 2 days per week at college
- 2-day placement
- Evening class - This is delivered once a week on a Tuesday evening (primarily online)
Entry requirements
- A minimum of two Highers, with evidence of relevant work/volunteer experience, is essential, particularly for school leavers, given the demands of the HNC placement and SVQ assessments.
- Relevant SCQF level 6 course
- National five maths is required if you wish to progress to a Social Work degree.
- If you do not meet the academic entry requirements, previous experience working in a health or social care setting is desirable and may still qualify you for this course.
- All applicants will be required to have an acceptable Protecting Vulnerable Groups (PVG) Scheme record check.
- Complete a detailed personal statement.
- Significant consideration will be given to your supporting statement, so it is essential to supply all the information that you think is relevant to your application. This may include any relevant work experience, your skills and qualities, why they would be helpful in social care, and your reasons for applying for the course.
Information on Tests / Auditions / Interview Requirements
- You will be invited in for a group interview and a written test.
English Proficiency Requirements
IELTS 5.5Progression and Articulation Routes
- Social Work degree programme at a university (some universities will also ask for a Numeracy or Maths qualification).
- Year 2 of the MA Health in Social Sciences at the University of Edinburgh.
- SVQ Level 3 and 4 in Social Services in Healthcare or Children and Young People.
Career options
- Care worker
Study Options
| Campus | Study mode | Start date |
|---|---|---|
| Sighthill Campus | Full time | 24/08/26 |
