Higher National Qualifications provide practical skills and theoretical knowledge that meet the needs of employers and higher education. The HNC in Social Sciences (SCQF level 7) develops knowledge and skills in areas such as human society and social relationships. The HND in Social Sciences (SCQF level 8) builds on the knowledge and skills of the HNC and also covers analysis and evaluation.
This qualification covers areas such as Sociology, Psychology, Research and other Social Sciences.
This qualification is available through colleges and some universities. Typically, an HNC takes one year to complete and an HND takes two years.
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Why deliver this qualification
Higher National Qualifications have been developed by SQA in partnership with colleges, universities and industry ¿ so employers recognise that they provide sound evidence of ability.
The unit-based structure supports flexibility. A unit is typically 40 hours of timetabled learning.
There is a wide choice of optional units which will enable centres to offer courses tailored to meet local needs.
This HN provides progression routes to further study (see Progression).
Who does this qualification suit
The HNC and HND in Social Sciences are suitable for a wide range of candidates including:
school leavers
adult returners to education
individuals in employment who wish to enhance their career prospects
Access
As with all SQA qualifications, entry is at the discretion of the centre. Examples of formal entry qualifications include:
SQA Highers in appropriate subjects at SCQF level 6
National Certificate course in Social Sciences at SCQF level 6
SWAP Access programmes in Arts and Humanities
Core Skill Communication at SCQF level 6
Or relevant work experience.
Different combinations of relevant National Qualifications, vocational qualifications and equivalent qualifications from other awarding bodies may also be acceptable.
Progression
Learners who achieve an HNC in Social Sciences can progress to the HND in Social Sciences (GP2N 16).
HNCs and HNDs can provide progression to degree-level study. For example, the HNC in Social Sciences may allow direct entry into the second year of most degree programmes, and the HND in Social Sciences may allow direct entry to most third year programmes.
Approval
Centres with devolved authority for approval should use their own internal approval process.
Centres without devolved authority are required to come forward for approval and should contact SQA's Business Development Team for guidance.
Assessors and verifiers must be able to meet SQA's general requirements for technical/occupational competence as outlined in the Systems and Qualification Approval Guide.
How to assess
Each individual unit specification gives detailed information on the evidence requirements and approaches to assessment for each unit.
Ongoing course assessment will apply.
Where can you take this course?
Qualification Structure
HNC Social Sciences
Group award code: GP1K 15 (96 SCQF credit points).
HNC Social Sciences at SCQF level 7 consists of 5 mandatory units (48 SCQF credit points) and 5 optional units (48 SCQF credit points).
HND Social Sciences
Group award code: GP2N 16 (240 SCQF credit points).
HND Social Sciences at SCQF level 8 consists of 10 mandatory units (96 SCQF credit points) and a number of optional units (144 SCQF points).
The University of Edinburgh played host to a group of teachers and lecturers interested in SQA's new Social Anthropology units. Tomislav Maric gave a presentation about his experience of teaching anthropology in England.
