Explore Something New at College
The pandemic has affected us all in different ways. If it has made you take some time to reflect on your job prospects, you might have decided to explore something new at college.
Do you have a hobby or passion you would like to pursue further? Or did you always see yourself in a different job role? Edinburgh College offers a range of courses that can help you take your next step in a new direction, whether that be developing new skills or retraining to explore a new industry.
Changing your career
If you are currently in employment you will have gained lots of knowledge and skills which are needed to complete that role. A lot of this work may be transferrable to another job within another industry. So while it may seem like you starting from scratch by changing career, you will have a lot of skills and experience already needed for different areas of work.
If you are considering changing your career, Edinburgh College have courses that are designed to get those with previous experience industry-ready in a new sector. These are studied at a Higher Education level as either a Higher National Certificate (HNC) or Diploma (HND). These courses usually last for a minimum of one academic year and on successful completion, you will have a nationally recognised qualification. This can help you find an entry position in your new employment sector or provide you with a pathway into university if you choose that route. These types of courses usually come with funding from SAAS which can cover your teaching costs and as well as your living expenses.
![Shot from above, a person is sitting on a bean bag and typing on a laptop. The bean bag is surrounded by stationery, notebooks and a cup of cofee.](/media/aghnr21c/laptop-flatlay.jpg?center=0.34902273633825287,0.50730955446855164&mode=crop&width=1920&height=600&rnd=132691046526000000)
Starting a new career
An access course is ideal for those looking to start a brand new career. These come with different qualifications attached such as National Certificates (NC) or National Qualification (NQ). These courses are designed to build a foundation of transferrable skills and industry-specific knowledge helping you to familiarise yourself with the sector.
Access courses are a good starting point in your learning journey, with pathways onto Higher Education courses at college, and then employment or study at university. They can vary from being six months to a year long, providing you with direct entry to further study (depending on successful completion). A bursary supplied from the college is available for these courses providing you with financial support throughout your studies. College bursaries are awarded on an individual basis and applicants must meet certain criteria to be awarded with one.
Edinburgh College have dedicated teams to help you through the process of deciding on your new career, helping you with your application, providing advice on funding and supporting you through your college journey.
Visit the Student Services section of our website for more information about the services that are available at college.
No matter what you choose to do make sure you are making the right choice for yourself. If you need any further advice please contact our course information team by emailing courseinfo@edinburghcollege.ac.uk
Ready to start your application? View our courses.