WHC_Prospecuts_2021_22_Final

FIND YOUR FUTURE

@ West Highland College UHI

Prospectus Leabhran - iùil 2021/22

For further information please give our friendly staff a call or visit

www.whc.uhi.ac.uk. 01397 874000

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For alternative formats call
01397 874000

West Highland College UHI is a company limited by guarantee (SC153921) with charitable status (SC024193).
Registered Office: Carmichael Way, Fort William, PH33 6FF
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Find your future here…

I am delighted that you are thinking about joining us, your
local College and University in the West Highlands. Making
the decision to study for a new qualification or degree is
probably one of the most important decisions you will make
in your life. This year, more than many, this decision is
bound to be tinged with uncertainty about the future and
what it will bring.

So we want to reassure you that here at West Highland
College UHI we are all determined to help you find the
right learning for your career path, and to provide you with
all the support you need to get you started on your
learning journey.

In this our tenth anniversary year, we are proud to have
made a significant contribution to the West Highland communities we serve by creating many
opportunities for study in further and higher education on full and part time courses so that
the choices you have are greater than ever before.

By choosing us you will join over 37,000 other students who form the partnership of
institutions that form the University of the Highlands and Islands – the biggest student body
in Scotland. This gives you access to world class university education and research
specialisms and to over 70 higher education courses including the unique range of Adventure
degrees at our School of Adventure studies based in Fort William.

By choosing us you will be studying at one of Scotland’s highest performing colleges. We
have one of the country’s highest student success rates and our learner consistently report
satisfaction rates of 97% or higher.

By choosing us you will have access to the most innovative teaching methods and a talented
pool of staff who have over 10 years’ experience of delivering to students using a
combination of learning technologies and real time contact. We don’t leave you to study
online and alone – you will have regular connected learning time with your lecturers, contact
with your peers and our teams of college centre staff are there to support you every step of
the way.

Choose the best start for your future with West Highland College UHI.

Principal and Chief Executive

www.whc.uhi.ac.uk 1

How to
use this
prospectus

To find out more about a subject area

Click on the Subject Area on the contents page opposite and you will
be taken to that area where you can read about career opportunities within the
sector and see the list of courses available.

If you already know what course you want to study, click on the Course Listing
on the contents page opposite and then click on the course of your choice.

Each course title can be clicked and that will take you directly to that course
on our website where the most up to date information can be found.

There is a row of icons at the foot of each course page. These are links to
various other pages in the prospectus which will provide you with details
about fees, funding, application and how you will study.

£FE £HE STEM STUDY
STYLE

2 www.whc.uhi.ac.uk

Contents Clàr-Innse Clàr-innse

4 About the University of the 170 Course Listing
Highlands and Islands
Mu Oilthigh na Gàidhealtachd agus Liosta de chùrsaichean
nan Eilean
Subject Area
6 About West Highland College UHI
Mu Cholaiste na Gàidhealtachd 38 Administration and Business
an Iar UHI Rianachd agus Gnothachas

8 Our College Centres 48 Beauty and Make-up
Na h-Ionadan Colaiste againn Bòidhchead agus Maise-Gnùis

10 How and where will I study 54 Computing and Creative Digital Skills
Ciamar a bhios mi ag ionnsachadh Coimpiutaireachd is Sgilean
agus càite Didseatach Cruthachail

12 The student voice 66 Creative Arts
Guth nan oileanach Ealain Chruthachail

14 How do we support you 84 Health, Education and Childcare
Ciamar a bheir sinn taic dhuibh Slàinte, Foghlam agus Cùram-Chloinne

16 Qualifications explained 98 Hospitality and Professional Cookery
Fiosrachadh mu theisteanasan Aoigheachd agus Còcaireachd Phroifeiseanta

18 Application, fees and funding 106 Humanities and Social Sciences
for FE Daonnachdan agus Saidheansan Sòisealta
Tagradh, cìsean agus maoineachadh
airson FA 114 Land and Sea
Fearann is Muir
20 Application, fees and funding
for HE 124 STEM
Tagradh, cìsean agus maoineachadh STEM
airson FAI
128 School of Adventure Studies
22 School College Partnership Sgoil Eòlas Dàn-Thurasachd
Com-Pàirteachas Colaiste agus Sgoil
160 Work Based Training, Employment
28 Gateway to Skills and Education Skills and CPD
Slighe a-steach do Sgilean agus Foghlam Trèanadh Stèidhichte air Obair,
Sgilean Cosnaidh agus CPD
THE COLLEGE RESERVES THE RIGHT TO
CHANGE COURSE PROVISION. www.whc.uhi.ac.uk 3
The description of our courses in the prospectus are
as accurate as possible at the time of their creation.
Circumstances can force changes: units can change,
funding can change, inadequate application
numbers etc. If there is a change to a course you have
expressed interest in, we will let you know as soon as
possible. If you require this prospectus in some other
format, call 01397 874000.

Find your
future here
Your local

university

The University of the Highlands and Islands offers
you the choice of studying at one of 13 colleges and
research centres, over 70 local learning centres,
or online from wherever you are.

Our students choose to study with us Further and higher education and the
whether they are from the remotest transition between the two are in our DNA.
communities in our region or from We have over 20 years of experience in
anywhere in the world. We cover the delivering a personalised learning
largest geographical areas of any experience to our students.
university or college in the UK and have
the largest student population in We consider ourselves the home of joined
Scotland, with nearly 37,000 students up learning. Our strength in delivering
studying with us each year. through blended digital learning is supported
by local student services and our
Our university partnership of colleges and personalised approach will build your skills
research institutions has been working for and confidence during your time with us.
many years to provide opportunities and
seamless pathways to enable students to As your local college and university partner,
make the transition from further education to West Highland College UHI is ready with
higher education as part of their own unique experienced local teams to support you. We
learner journey. are the ideal place to study whether you are
just starting out, if you have been out of
education for some time or are looking to
change career.

4 www.whc.uhi.ac.uk

www.whc.uhi.ac.uk 5

10

reasons to
study with us

West Highland College UHI

This year we celebrate ten years of bringing learning and
aspiration to our communities.

1 3 A COLLEGE CENTRE

STUDENT SATISFACTION NEAR YOU
Overall, 97% of students said A college centre near you
they were either satisfied or where you can stay at home
extremely satisfied with their
and study locally.
overall experience at West
Highland College UHI. 4

2 STUDENT FRIENDLY STAFF
Our lecturing and support
PERFORMANCE staff have years of experience
Our full time further education in supporting learners to
fulfil their career ambitions.
students are amongst the
very top performing in

Scotland with 71.8% achieving
their qualifications.

6 www.whc.uhi.ac.uk

5 8
FACE TO FACE AND
ONLINE ACCESS FOR ALL
Our courses have scheduled We aim to ensure equality of
connected learning time and access through supportive and
flexible learning time, allowing inclusive learning experiences.
you to fit study around other
commitments.

6 9

LOCAL EMPLOYERS EQUALITY AND INCLUSION
You will benefit from links with We celebrate diversity and seek
local employers who help us
to meet the needs and
design our courses to meet aspirations of all our students
regional skills needs.
and our communities.

7 10
LEARNING JOURNEY
Start your learning journey with STUNNING LOCATION
us and stay on, progressing Where else could you study
right up to degree and
postgraduate level through surrounded by such
the University of the beautiful scenery?
Highlands and Islands.

www.whc.uhi.ac.uk 7

Our Ullapool
college Ullapul
centres Gairloch
Geàrrloch
What makes our college
different from many Portree Auchtertyre
other colleges and Port Rìgh Uachdar Thìre
institutions is the
distribution and Broadford
diversity of our centres. An t-Àth Leathann

We are spread across a wide geographical Mallaig
area with centres reaching from Ullapool in Malaig
the north to Kilchoan in the south. Each centre
is firmly rooted in the location it serves, Strontian Fort William
working hard to provide accessible, locally Sròn an t-Sithein An Gearasdan
relevant learning opportunities for young
people, adults, and businesses. Kilchoan Kinlochleven
Cille Chòmhain Ceann Loch Lìobhann
We offer a full range of courses from school
leavers right through to adult learners at All our college centres
whatever stage or level is right for you, from
Access courses right up to Honours degree provide a base for
and beyond. We put you in control of your
learning journey and enable you to study from connected and flexible
wherever you are so that you can fit your
learning around other interests and full and part time course.
commitments without having to travel far.
You can join us at one of our local college
centres or online from home, or a combination
of both. You won’t feel alone as our staff will
support you every step of the way.

8 www.whc.uhi.ac.uk

Fort William West Highland College UHI – Auchtertyre
Taigh Darach, Lochalsh Business Park,
Fort William is our largest centre and is the Auchtertyre, Kyle of Lochalsh, IV40 8EG
main base of our School of Adventure 01599 566775 | 01397 874510
Studies which delivers our four degree
programmes. We have a lecture theatre, West Highland College UHI – Broadford
multi-purpose classrooms, video and audio Pairc nan Craobh, Broadford,
conference facilities, professional training Isle of Skye, IV49 9AP
kitchen, fashion and textiles studio, 01471 822622 | 01397 874530
construction centre and music rooms to
deliver courses across the whole curriculum. West Highland College UHI – Fort William
Our learning resource centre is based here, Carmichael Way, Fort William, PH33 6FF
and all our students automatically have 01397 874000
access to it.
West Highland College UHI – Gairloch
Portree Gairloch Museum, Gairloch,
Ross-Shire, IV21 2BH
Portree college centre has multipurpose 01397 874543
classrooms, video conferencing facilities,
IT suite, training beauty salon, construction West Highland College UHI – Kilchoan
workshop, art studio and professional Pier Road, Kilchoan, PH36 4LH
training kitchen. 01397 874260

Broadford West Highland College UHI – Kinlochleven
The Leven Centre, Riverside Road,
Adventure and rural courses are based Kinlochleven, PH50 4QH
here. This centre is perfectly located for 01397 874250
outdoor learning activities.
West Highland College UHI – Mallaig
Mallaig West Bay, Mallaig, PH41 4PX
01687 460345 | 01397 874600
This centre hosts our maritime courses.
The adjacent marine training centre is used West Highland College UHI – Portree
for the more practical aspects of learning Struan Road, Portree,
with our marine trainers, including RYA and Isle of Skye, IV51 9EG
MCA short courses. 01478 611310 | 01397 874500

Auchtertyre, Kilchoan, West Highland College UHI – Strontian
Kinlochleven, Strontian, The Sunart Centre,
Ullapool and Gairloch Ardnamurchan, PH36 4JA
01397 874280
All our centres play a vital role in widening
access to education in the local area, by West Highland College UHI – Ullapool
offering the opportunity to study all level of Ground Floor, 2 West Shore Street,
courses via connected and flexible learning. Ullapool, IV26 2UR
They also host a wide range of short 01854 613099 | 01397 874540
courses for local businesses and community
groups. Ullapool is also a registered RYA Pop in to see us and find out more!
Training Centre.
Bidh fàilte bhlàth romhaibh!

www.whc.uhi.ac.uk 9

How and
where will I
study?

West Highland College UHI and the wider University
of the Highlands and Islands have been delivering
courses for over 10 years that allow for flexibility of
learning styles and course delivery.

With our 10 college centres spread over a wide geographical area, we use
creative teaching approaches for interactive and social learning, whether in the
outdoors, a workshop or an online-classroom. Our courses provide students
with flexibility and what's more, because we use online-classrooms,
many courses can be studied from anywhere.

For most of our full time courses, the week will have scheduled, connected learning time and
flexible learning time. You need to commit to both, but you can choose when to complete
flexible learning to fit with work, caring and personal commitments. Some flexible learning
must be done on a weekly basis.

Social distancing requirements (COVID -19)

Our priority is to provide a safe learning environment for all of our staff and
students at all times.

As and when it is appropriate and safe to do so, your connected learning activity may take
place in the college. However, during periods of social distancing restrictions, some of your
learning may need to move to an online-classroom. This will include a combination of video
conferencing, interactive chat and sharing of presentation slides and other visuals.
Online-classrooms provide you with real time interaction, contact and discussion with your
lecturer and fellow students.

10 www.whc.uhi.ac.uk

STUDY
STYLE

CONNECTED FLEXIBLE LEARNING
LEARNING
This is lecturer directed learning and self-directed learning.
Here you will learn
together with your lecturers, Lecturer-directed learning is weekly learning activity,
fellow students and others. for example:
Connected learning
happens at a scheduled • posting your idea in a discussion forum
time in a practical workshop, • completing a quiz
an online-classroom, • practicing a task, activity or idea
a studio, a specialist • watching a recommended video or reading
classroom, the workplace • discussing and working on a solution with
or in the outdoors.
Our online technology another student
allows students to • researching and gathering information
collaborate all over the • completing an assignment or project-based task
Highlands. We expect
all our students to need Self-directed learning
support initially and we will We encourage you to take ownership of your learning and
be there to provide it. areas of interest. You can ask us to help you to determine
areas for further study and development.

www.whc.uhi.ac.uk 11

The student
voice

Welcome to your
Students’ Association.

The Highlands and Islands Students’ Association
(HISA) represents students at all 13 partner colleges
of the University of the Highlands and Islands.
It is led by students, for students.

Your Local HISA Team both at WHC UHI and regional committees
At West Highland College UHI, our across the UHI partnership to ensure
students elect a representative dedicated decision-making has your voice at its heart.
to promoting your interests at the college – The Local Officer works alongside HISA
the HISA Local Officer. The Local Officer student officers across the Highlands and
is elected every year by our student body Islands to ensure University decision making
and is supported by a permanent HISA is in line with the student voice. HISA also
staff member. provides opportunities for students to
participate in clubs and societies as well as
What we do: working with the college to organise the
HISA is a representative body, led by a annual freshers’ fayre. HISA will also help
fulltime regional team elected every year. you if you need support or if you encounter
These officers are: President, Vice any issues while studying.
President (Further Education) and Vice
President (Higher Education). Officers are If you wish to contact HISA,
elected by students and work full time to please get in touch with Ciaran
represent you both locally and nationally. ([email protected] ). Alternatively,
you can contact Student Services or your
Your Local Officer works with your student local college centre manager.
reps to ensure that your voice is heard. For more information about HISA,
They sit on the College Board of go to: www.hisa.uhi.ac.uk
Management and a variety of committees

12 www.whc.uhi.ac.uk

Ciaran Gibson: Owen Adams:
HISA Depute HISA Assistant
(Local Officer)
Class representatives
Every class elects one representative Welcome
and one deputy representative who
receive training to carry out the role. TO OUR TWO NEW HISA TEAM MEMBERS
They act as a feedback mechanism for HERE TO HELP YOU HAVE YOUR VOICE
college staff and the wider partnership. Ciaran Gibson: HISA Depute President
They collect views of fellow students and Owen Adams: HISA Assistant
feed those comments into various
committees at both course and college “I'm Ciaran Gibson, your HISA Depute.
level. For those in smaller learning centres, HISA is the Highlands and Islands Student
there is the opportunity to become Association and it exists to enhance the
a centre representative. student experience in any way possible.
What makes me qualified to represent our
They also have the opportunity to sit on wonderful students? Quite simply, I care.
the Student Executive Council which is a I'm a student myself, I know what it's like to
college-wide group made of centre and study. I understand the unique challenges
class representatives that gives students that students face and I wake up everyday
the chance to give their views directly to wondering what I can do to make student life
the college on any issues or areas just that little bit better.
for improvement.
I am always on hand to listen, support and
Being a rep will provide you with a variety assist in any way I can. I know you'll have an
of desirable skills highly sought after by amazing time studying at West Highland
employers. It will enhance your CV and College UHI and I wish you all the best for
provide you with unique opportunities for the year ahead.”
training and workshops such as First Aid,
Mental Health First Aid, Leadership and Ciaran Gibson 
employability workshops.
 

www.whc.uhi.ac.uk 13

How do we
support you?

We are committed to all our students and we will do
all we can to make your experience here enjoyable
and rewarding.

Our Student Services Team are here to offer We are also available to complete needs
help, support and advice on matters such assessments for higher education students
as funding, childcare, accommodation, who may qualify for the Disabled Student’s
library resources, study support, Allowance (DSA).
counselling, health and wellbeing
and learning support. To find out if you are eligible for this
allowance please refer to this link on the
If you find learning a challenge, we have a SAAS website:
team of experienced advisors who will talk https://www.saas.gov.uk/files/402/
with you and work out an individual support saas-dsa-notes.pdf
plan that best meets your needs. We can
arrange access to appropriate enabling
technology and support with assessments
and study if required. We offer a friendly,
confidential and supportive service. If you
think this applies to you, please get in touch
as early as possible.

14 www.whc.uhi.ac.uk

While we support all applicants and Accommodation
students, there are some who may need Student residences are available in Fort
extra support with college life. William. The accommodation is managed by
This could be you if any of the following Cityheart Living (Scotland) Ltd.
apply to you: in or have left care, carers, They manage the residence application
estranged students, veterans and service process, student leases and will answer any
leaders, BSL (British Sign Language) questions about the facilities.
students and those who are https://studentaccommodationuhi.co.uk/e
hearing impaired. n/locations/fort-william

We can offer dedicated help with: Many students choose to find welcoming
• Pre-entry guidance and support and friendly accommodation through local
• Funding independent providers. We can provide a
• Additional support for learning list of contacts for you on application.
• Guidance

www.whc.uhi.ac.uk 15

Qualifications
explained

Scottish Credit and
Qualification
Framework or SCQF

You will see SCQF a lot throughout our prospectus and on our web site. The SCQF is a
useful way of comparing the wide range of Scottish qualifications. For more information
visit: www.scqf.org.uk

Application and funding processes vary depending
on the level of the course that you are studying,
so it is very important for you to know the level of
your course.

Further Education FE Higher Education HE

All courses that are set at Scottish Credit All courses that are set at SCQF levels 7-12
and Qualification Framework SCQF levels1-6 are classed as Higher Education.
are classed as Further Education. Each FE
course page in this book states clearly SCQF levels 7-12: Higher National
below the title what the SCQF level is. Certificate (HNC)/Cert HE, Higher National
Diploma (HND)/ Dip HE, Bachelor’s
SCQF levels 1-3: designed to meet your Ordinary Degree, Honours Degree, Masters
individual needs and incorporating Degree and Doctoral Degree.
support with essential skills and
personal development. Apprenticeships and SVQs

SCQF level 4-6: these can include National These SCQF level 4-12 qualifications are
Progression Awards (NPA), National work based. To find out more go to the
Qualifications (NQ), National Certificate Modern Apprenticeships section of
group awards (NC), and college devised the prospectus.
certificates (groupings of units in a specific
subject area).

16 www.whc.uhi.ac.uk

SCQF SQA Qualifications Qualifications Apprenticeships
Levels Higher Education & SVQs

Instructions

12 THE SCOTTISH Professional Doctoral Degree Professional
11 CREDIT AND Development Award Apprenticeship
10 QUALIFICATION
9 FRAMEWORK Professional Masters Degree, Graduate
8 (SCQF) Development Award Integrated Masters Apprenticeship,
7 Degree, Post Graduate
6 Diploma, Post Graduate Professional
Apprenticeship, SVQ
Certificate
Graduate
Professional Honours Apprenticeship,
Development Award Degree, Graduate
Diploma, Graduate Professional
Apprenticeship
Certificate

Professional Bachelors / Diploma, Graduate
Development Award Ordinary Degree, Certificate Graduate
Graduate Diploma, Apprenticeship, Technical
Graduate Certificate Apprenticeship, SVQ

Higher Professional Diploma of Higher Apprenticeship,
National Development Award Higher Education Technical
Diploma
Certificate of Apprenticeship, SVQ
Advanced Higher Professional Higher Education
Higher, National Certificate, Development Award Modern
Awards, Scottish Advanced Certificate Apprenticeship, SVQ
Baccalaureate
Modern Apprenticeship,
Higher, Awards, National Professional Foundation
Skills for Work Certificate Development Award
Apprenticeship, SVQ
Higher

5 National 5, Awards, National National Modern
Skills for Work Certificate Progression Award Apprenticeship, SVQ
National 5
SVQ
4 National 4, Awards, National National
Skills for Work Certificate Progression Award
National 4

3 National 3, National National Foundation
Awards, Skills for Certificate Progression Award Apprenticeships are at
Work National 3
SCQF level 6

2 National 2, National National
Awards Certificate Progression Award

1 National 1, www.whc.uhi.ac.uk 17
Awards

Application, £FE
fees and
funding for
Further Education
(FE) courses

Application • Once you have met the outlined conditions,
you must inform us, and we will email you an
Further Education (FE) applies to all unconditional offer which you must
courses up to and including SCQF level 6: then accept.
such as transition courses, National
Certificates, NPAs and NQs. • If you do not meet the conditions, you may
lose your place on the course.

• Apply online: www.whc.uhi.ac.uk Unconditional offer
• Find the course you want to study (checking • An unconditional offer means you have a

you have the entry requirements) and click confirmed place on the course.
the apply tab where you will complete an • When we email you an unconditional offer, it
online application form.
• All correspondence is by email. is essential that you reply to the email to
An acknowledgment email will be sent within accept the place.
2 weeks of us receiving your application. • Details about induction days will be emailed
to you as the start date approaches.

What happens Next Enrolment
• We will email you with interview details. • When you have accepted your place, you
• After your interview, you will receive an email
will be sent an email inviting you to enrol
with our decision, which will either be a online when our enrolment process opens in
conditional or unconditional offer. the summer. It is important that you check
your email account and enrol online as soon
Conditional offer as you are invited to do so.
• A conditional offer is given if you need to pass

exams, complete your current course, or meet
other entry requirements before your place can
be confirmed. The conditional offer means
you have a provisional place on the course,
which you MUST accept in a reply email.

18 www.whc.uhi.ac.uk

Fees and Funding

Further Education (FE) applies to all application. It can take up to 4 weeks from the
courses up to and including SCQF level 6: date of receipt of the final piece of evidence
such as transition courses, National requested to process your application. You
Certificates, NPAs and NQs. should make allowances between starting
the course and receiving funding.
How much will it cost me to study?
The main costs to you are tuition fees -these Under 18: Educational Maintenance
are the fees that we charge to teach you. Allowance (EMA)
You will also have living expenses. • If you are 16 or 17, you could get £30 a

How will I pay? week to help you continue learning.
• You may be entitled to a tuition fee waiver if • The payment is based on your family’s

you are a Scottish domiciled or EU student income and on your good attendance
following a full time FE course of study. at college.
• If your course is part time, you may also be • You can claim travel costs if you live more
entitled to have your tuition fees waived. than 3 miles from your place of learning.
• If you are from England, Northern Ireland or • If EMA applies to you, but your household
Wales and are coming to Scotland ONLY for income is too high to receive payments, you
the purpose of education and are not should still complete the application to cover
normally resident here, you MUST pay fees. your protective clothing (PPE) costs and any
travel expenses.

College bursary for living costs 18 and over: bursary, childcare and
• Depending on your personal hardship discretionary funds
• If you are over 18 at the start of your course
circumstances, you may qualify for financial
assistance (bursary). and studying full time, then you may be
• You will be sent details of how to apply for a eligible for a bursary.
bursary when you receive an unconditional • Bursary, childcare and hardship funds are
offer from us. discretionary and there is a limited amount.
• Bursary applications open in the middle of You must apply as soon as possible or risk
June and you are strongly advised to apply losing out.
online for support before the start of • Payments can be withheld if your attendance
your course. or behaviour is not satisfactory.

You will be required to submit documentary
evidence (proof of income) to support your

www.whc.uhi.ac.uk 19

Application, £HE
fees and
funding for
Higher Education
(HE) courses

Application Conditional offer
• A conditional offer is given if you are required
HE applies to all courses at SCQF
level 7 and above: HNC, HND, Degree to pass exams, complete your current course,
and Postgraduate or meet other entry requirements before your
place can be confirmed. The conditional offer
• You can apply for all our degree programmes means you have a provisional place on the
online through UCAS by visiting their course, which you MUST accept in a
website: www.ucas.com reply email.
• Once you have met the outlined conditions,
• Apply to multiple colleges or universities for you should inform us, and we will send you an
HNC or HND level courses, online through unconditional offer which you must then
UCAS by visiting their website as above. accept. If you do not meet the conditions, then
you may lose your place on the course.
• If you are applying for an HNC or HND
course at just West Highland College UHI, Unconditional offer
you can do this by applying online through • An unconditional offer means you have a
our website - www.whc.uhi.ac.uk You will
receive an acknowledgement email within confirmed place on the course.
2 weeks. • It is essential that you reply to the email to

What happens Next accept your place. Failure to do so can
• Your application will be passed to the lead to your place being allocated to
another applicant.
Programme Leader who will make a decision
based on the entry criteria and your Enrolment
personal statement. • When you have accepted your place, you
• If you are successful with your application,
you will receive an email with our decision will be sent an email inviting you to enrol
which will either be a conditional or online when our enrolment process opens in
unconditional offer. the summer. It is important that you check
your email account and enrol online as soon
as you are invited to do so.

20 www.whc.uhi.ac.uk

Fees and Funding

HE applies to all courses at Student loans
SCQF level 7 and above: HNC, HND, • When you apply to SAAS to have your tuition
Degree and Postgraduate
https://www.whc.uhi.ac.uk/study-at- fees paid, you should also apply for help with
whc/fees-and-funding/ living costs by applying for a student loan or
bursary depending on household income.
Tuition fees • Student loans are paid monthly by bank
• The Student Awards Agency for Scotland transfer and supplementary grants such as
Young Student Bursary are payable in
(SAAS) administers financial support for HE three instalments.
students following HNC, HND and Degree • HE students do not get any travel or course
courses. Full information available at: related costs paid.
www.saas. gov.uk. • Part time HE students can apply for a Part
• Full time Higher Education Scottish or EU Time Fee Grant. You can download the
domiciled students may be eligible for SAAS application form from the SAAS website and
to pay their tuition fees. this needs to be sent off within 6 months of
• Students classed as Rest of UK (RUK) or starting the course.
International should check the University of
the Highlands and Islands website for details West Highland College UHI
of funding, www.uhi.ac.uk and the Discretionary Support
following websites: If you are still worried about living costs, as
• www.gov.uk/studentfinancesteps an HE student you can also apply for
• www.studentfinancewales.co.uk discretionary and childcare funds via the
• www.slc.co.uk Student Hub. This becomes accessible from
• www.nidirect.gov.uk/financialhelp-for- the middle of June. To be considered, you
must have first applied for the full student
EU-students loan via SAAS.
• It is your responsibility to apply to SAAS for
You should plan how you will meet all the
payment of your tuition fees before you enrol costs of studying, including living expenses,
on the course. If SAAS do not agree to pay your before you take up a college place.
fees, then you will need to pay them yourself.
• You should apply at the earliest opportunity You must apply for funding in every year of
as you DO NOT need an offer of a place or your course.
have accepted your place before you apply.
If you change your course this can
be amended.

www.whc.uhi.ac.uk 21

Working with ourSchool College
young peoplePartnership

We recognise the importance of supportingCom-Pàirteachas Colaiste agus Sgoil
our young people into positive destinations.

We believe that it is vital that young people are given the
opportunity to build their skills, abilities and play an active
part as independent contributors to their community and
to the Scottish economy in the future. Scotland’s skilled
workforce requires a mix of vocational and academic
education and the value of vocational skills and practical
expertise that colleges can offer is often the starting point
for many successful career paths.
Our partnership with our 9 West Highland High Schools
enables our young people to gain skills, confidence,
qualifications and access to vocational pathways that can
complement their academic studies, exposing them to
more post-school choices thus opening up more options
for rewarding further education or employment.
Over 20,000 school students are involved in school
college partnerships across Scotland.

22 www.whc.uhi.ac.uk

25 Why choose a school college 26 Our school college School College Partnership Com-Pàirteachas Colaiste agus Sgoil
partnership course? partnership options

25 Foundation Apprenticeships: 27 In partnership with
closing the gap between the Highland Council
classroom and the workplace

www.whc.uhi.ac.uk 23

What our
students say

Kinlochleven Mallaig Ullapool Portree
High School High School High School High School

Lochaber Plockton Kilchuimen Ardnamurchan Gairloch
High School High School Academy High School High School

24 www.whc.uhi.ac.uk

School College Partnership

West Highland College UHI works in close How will I study?
partnership with each of our 9 local High Virtual classes use online technology, such
Schools, Highland Council, local businesses as Google Hangouts, in timetabled sessions.
and organisations to offer a wide range of You'll also have a college lecturer in virtual
courses to school pupils in years 4-6 at attendance during the class.
SCQF levels 4-7.
Online study is unsupervised so you can
Why choose a School timetable this work flexibly around your other
College Partnership course? commitments. If you have a good work ethic,
• broaden your curriculum choices and strong self motivation and work well
independently then you'll probably find this
enrich your educational experience way of learning suits you.
• sample college life
• become a more independent learner Blended classes are a combination of
• improve your application to university or online study supplemented with delivery at
scheduled times/days.
college by demonstrating a range of
additional skills acquired during your Foundation Apprenticeships:
time with us closing the gap between the classroom
• benefit from our partnerships with and the workplace.
businesses and employers to provide
valuable work-based learning experiences Foundation Apprenticeships
which are recognised by industry (SCQF level 6) provide a work-based
• our courses are SQA certificated and if learning opportunity, typically lasting
you pass, it will appear on your SQA 12 – 24 months. They offer you a unique
Certificate along with your Nationals, combination of classroom learning and work
Highers and Advanced Highers placements with relevant local employers.
They are available in S5 and S6.

There are benefits for both you and
employers: you can get a head start on a
career choice while still at school by gaining
an industry recognised qualification and
valuable real life work based projects and
employers help create motivated young
people as future employees.

The University of the Highlands and
Islands as well as several universities across
Scotland recognise Foundation
Apprenticeships as part of their entry criteria.
It is advisable to check with the institutions
prior to application.

www.whc.uhi.ac.uk 25

Our school college partnership
options - where we work with you

What you can study while still in school Creative Arts
keeps growing with many courses delivered • Fashion & Textiles Technology Nat 4,
in a college setting or as option choices on
your school timetable. Some are practical Nat 5
and have face to face delivery. Many are • Music and Creative Industries
virtual and are available online.
Performance Skills (music)
Computing • Sound Production: Recording National
• Foundation Apprenticeship:
Progression Award
Software Development • NPA Beauty SCQF level 4
• Foundation Apprenticeship: • NPA Music Business SCQF level 6

Creative Digital Media Construction/Rural/Sport
• Certificate in Digital Media and Software (outdoor adventure)
• Construction Crafts Skills for Work Nat 4/5
Development-Year 1 • Construction and Engineering Skills for
• Certificate in Digital Media Animation and
Work SCQF level 3
Web Design Fundamentals-Year 2 • Built Environment NPA SCQF level 5
• Computing Science Nat 4, Nat 5, Higher • Rural Skills for Work SCQF4
• Maritime Skills for Work Nat 5
and Advanced Higher • Sport and Recreation Skills for Work Nat 4
• IT Applications
• Cyber Security NPA SCQF level 5 Introduction to Outdoor Pursuits)
• Data Science NPA SCQF level 5
Gateway to Skills and Education
Cookery/Hospitality/Business (transition)
• Foundation Apprenticeship: Business • Supported Learning Programme
• Transition 2 College
Skills (including Higher Business)
• Hospitality and Professional Cookery – Humanities
• English for Speakers of Other Languages
various options
• Business Management Nat 5/Higher (ESOL) Psychology Nat 5
• Psychology Nat 5/Higher
Child/Social Care
• Foundation Apprenticeship: Social The list of subjects available for delivery
in each school is annually revised and
Services, Children and Young People what’s on offer can only be delivered
• Foundation Apprenticeship: Social subject to numbers.

Services and Healthcare
• Early Education and Childcare Skills for

Work Nat 4
• Mental Health and Wellbeing SCQF

level 4-6

26 www.whc.uhi.ac.uk

Your options don’t stop there. In partnership
with Highland Council, we also offer:

Virtual School
These courses (SCQF levels 5-7) are timetabled to correspond with your
school's column choice timetable. All courses are taught by lecturers in
virtual attendance during timetabled slots via online learning environments
such as Google Hangout or Brightspace or our own Virtual Learning
Environment (VLE).

These virtual classes can be accessed using your Chromebook in
school and are available to ALL pupils in the Highland region.
S6 Experience
These courses (SCQF levels 6-8) are particularly suited to those going
into S6, allowing you greater choice and flexibility over the subjects you
want to study. Whether you are thinking about your next step, going to
university, or entering the world of work, the S6 Experience is a great
opportunity to find out more about a subject area, experience university
level study, stand out in the UCAS crowd when applying for a university
place or help to build your CV.
Home Educated Young People
A wide range of courses from SCQF level 5-8 are available online
for those who are being educated at home.

www.whc.uhi.ac.uk 27

A new startGateway to Skills
and Education
Deciding to come to college can be a major
step. Whether you are just leaving school,Slighe a-steach do Sgilean agus Foghlam
don’t have any qualifications or have been
out of education for some time, we will have
a course to start you on your college journey.

The flexibility in choice that we can provide will support
you if you are seeking to get basic qualifications, refresh
what you already have, improve your knowledge base or
help you change direction in your career.
We will work with you to develop confidence, self-esteem,
focus, motivation, ambition and coping strategies
ensuring that you are fully guided and mentored
throughout your learning journey.
We work hard to enable you to return to education by
offering full time and part time options as we realise that
many of our students may not be able to commit to the
traditional pattern of study because of personal
commitments or employment responsibilities.

28 www.whc.uhi.ac.uk

31 Supported Learning 35 Transition to Higher Gateway to Skills and Education Slighe a-steach do Sgilean agus Foghlam
Programme Education T2HE

33 T2FE: Transition to 36 Highers and National 5
Further Education qualifications

34 CCFE: College Certificate in 37 ESOL: English for Speakers
Further Education of Other Languages

www.whc.uhi.ac.uk 29

Developing Skills and
Building Opportunities

Our Gateway to Skills and Education T2FE: Transition to Further Education
programme offers a range of courses aimed For you if you don’t have academic or
at those who need more support while vocational qualifications. This full time
learning to achieve independence in course is specifically designed for you if you
essential, vocational, academic and are about to leave school or have done so
employability skills. already but don’t know what to do next.
It focusses on essential skills development
So if you have left school, or wish to by providing the opportunity to try the wide
return to learning, but have few academic range of practical subjects that the college
or vocational qualifications, we can help offers. You will gain confidence and
you create your own career and qualifications which will help you take more
learning pathways. control of your future.

Our lecturers are expert at working with CCFE: College Certificate in
you to create a personalised learning Further Education
experience based on developing skills, For you if you aren’t sure about what to do
creativity and self-confidence and through a next and want to experience college life.
college-wide variety of qualifications at Throughout the year, you will be given
SCQF levels 2-5. opportunities to try out a college wide variety
of other full time courses.
Supported Learning Programme
For you if you have recognised support Highers and National 5s
needs. You can attend some or all We also offer a range of Highers and
classes in a range of subjects. You will take National 5s, either as part of our Transition
part in creative and social activities and to Higher Education (T2HE) full time course
develop new skills and have the chance to or as stand-alone part time qualifications.
meet with friends in a friendly and
supportive environment.

Transition to College: ESOL: English for Speakers of
A pre-course for you if you are still at school, Other Languages.
are soon to leave but are undecided about For you if you don’t have English as your
your next steps. You will make a timetable first language and want to learn and
with lecturers for one day in the week which improve on the skills you do have, we
fits in with your existing commitments. This offer part time courses at various levels.
will allow you to experience a college setting
and build confidence at your own pace while
you decide about the future.

30 www.whc.uhi.ac.uk

Supported Learning Programme

SCQF levels 1-2

This course provides a positive environment Key Information
where those with additional support needs
can learn, thrive and achieve. Entry requirements
There are no specific entry requirements
Our classes are designed to enable and other than that at this stage in your life you
empower you to reach your full potential by feel unable to access further education or
developing your knowledge and skills for employment. An informal chat with the
independence through a broad range of course leader will give you and your carers
subjects. (as appropriate) the chance to identify
interests, skills and support needs.
You can learn all sorts of interesting
subjects, such as: What next?
• art and crafts Depending on classes attended and level of
• photography study, you will achieve one or more Scottish
• cooking Qualifications Authority units at National 1 or
• enterprise 2. You can either choose to return each year
• gardening to study new units or return to study at a
• local history higher level.

All the while developing essential skills Base: Fort William, Portree, Gairloch,
such as: Ullapool and Auchtertyre.
• communication
• confidence building All other information for this course will be
• problem solving found on our website. Click on the title at the
• building relationships top of the page to be taken directly to the up
• independent living skills to date web page for our Supported
• health and wellbeing Learning Programme.

Course Study Key

STUDY
STYLE

www.whc.uhi.ac.uk 31

What our I have moved to live in the UK.
students say I want to know English like a
native language. Christine is a
I love learning on the computer wonderful tutor because English
because I can do it when I am lessons with her are easy to understand.
away and I don't have to travel. When I have just come to the UK, people
I can sign into classes on my own. could not understand me.
Now I still have a lack of English
Catherine Russell. Access to knowledge but can participate in social life
Skills and Learning Programme without big stress. For example, I can make
a call and answer the phone. I translate for
I am now in my 3rd year people different things. I continue
at college. my education.

I had been out of education for Ilona Katkovska. ESOL
years when I decided to make a
change in my life, by apply for a College I discovered WHC UHI while living
Certificate in Further Education. It was a in Gairloch.
great introduction to college life and studying.
My confidence in my own ability grew. I had an interest in psychology but
We tried out units from other college I didn’t have university entry
courses and I liked the child development requirements so needed to get some
units, so then I choose to study NC Child, Highers and T2HE was the way to achieve
Health and Social Care. I liked the variety this. T2HE changed my life and was the
it offered. I never thought I was good at door to pursuing my future chosen path.
learning - I have impressed myself. The lecturers personified care in
Now I am studying NC Health and education. The level of interaction and
Social Care. I have found a new passion engagement they provided for us made a
for learning and improving myself, so great environment for learning, growth,
hopefully one day I will have a career in and good productive communication. For
the health and social care industry where I me, as a mature student, these factors
can make a difference and help individuals were huge and played a big part in my
success. As part of the course, support
Andrea Campbell. College was also given with my UCAS application
Certificate in FE; NC Child, Health - personal statement and reference.
and Social Care; NC Health and I got the Highers I needed and I was
Social Care accepted on a combined psychology with
sociology degree at Edinburgh Napier
University. Everyone involved deserves
credit, thanks and recommendation for the
role they played in shaping my future.

Bryan Donnelly. T2HE

32 www.whc.uhi.ac.uk

T2FE: Transition to Further Education

SCQF levels 3-5

This course is available to those who have Key Information
completed Transition to College or who have
just left school. Entry requirements
There are no specific entry requirements
T2FE will allow you to develop broad other than that at this stage in your life you
based skills that will equip you for either are unable, for any number of reasons, to
employment or moving on to our CCFE: access education or employment. An
College Certificate in Further Education or informal chat with the course leader will give
Employability Skills programmes. you and your teacher or referring agency, as
appropriate, the chance to discuss support
So if you don’t feel ready to begin other needs, identify life goals and how to work
learning or employment opportunities, T2FE: towards them and develop relevant interests
Transition to Further Education will give you and skills.
the chance to build on what you need in
order to consider these options in the future. What next?
After discussion with your tutor you could
If you need support for learning or think consider our College Certificate in Further
college isn’t for you then come and talk to Education or one of our other courses you
us. You might be surprised by what we can may have experienced units from while on
offer. In an informal but constructive setting this course.
our staff will help you to create opportunities
for your future. Base: Fort William
Course Study Key
On this course you could:
• try construction, cookery, arts and crafts £FE

and music
• develop your own personal strengths

and qualities
• gain confidence and self-esteem and get

better at what you try
• meet with friends, make new friends and

work as part of a team

STUDY
STYLE

www.whc.uhi.ac.uk 33

CCFE: College Certificate
in Further Education

SCQF levels 3-5

This course has been specifically designed Key Information
to give you the opportunity to try a wide
variety of subjects currently available with Entry requirements
West Highland College UHI while boosting Ideally you should have a basic education
your study skills and personal development. and be keen to learn new skills which will
help you to progress on to further education
By bringing you into the college or employment. You will be invited for
environment, it will also give you the skills interview.
and confidence to help you make the right
choices for your future in further education, What next?
training or employment. We hope you will have gained confidence
through your time in college and might
What you study and what level you study consider returning to study one of our full
at will depend on when you join this course time courses that you experienced part of
(September or January). There are when with us.
opportunities to experience a variety of units
from college courses such as music,
cookery, outdoor adventure, computing,
construction and childcare.

Base: Fort William
Course Study Key

£FE STUDY
STYLE

34 www.whc.uhi.ac.uk

Transition to Higher Education T2HE

SCQF level 6

Do you need further qualifications to pursue Key Information
your chosen career or study path? T2HE is
for both school leavers and adult learners Entry requirements
who wish to return to education but who If choosing to study at National 5, you
might not have achieved entry requirements should have achieved at National 4 or
at school. equivalent in school. If choosing to study
Highers, you should have National 5
T2HE offers you a personal planning qualifications in the subjects you choose to
session, as part of your interview, to help study and English: A or B, or equivalent.
you decide which qualifications are best for Adult returners do not require any formal
you as you work towards your future goal. qualifications but must demonstrate the
ability to work at Higher level (SCQF level
You will choose 3 subjects from a 6). You will be invited to an interview.
selection at National 5 (SCQF level 5) and
Higher (SCQF level 6). We offer you three What next?
different routes into higher education: a You can continue your education journey
science route, a humanities route or a using the qualifications achieved.
combined route, made of both science and
humanities. You will also study 3 core units Base: Anywhere
to improve your learning potential. Course Study Key

Highers: Biology, Human Biology, £FE STEM STUDY
Environmental Science, Physics, English, STYLE
Psychology and Sociology.
Photography (available evenings in 3
locations only).
National 5: Maths and Psychology
The choices you make may be subject
to availability. Please ask at the time
of interview.
Core units: These are independent learning
experiences, supported by your lecturers in
study sessions. They are part of T2HE.

• Research and Study Skills: learn how to
conduct effective research and evaluation

• Core Skills ICT: gain confidence in using
electronic systems to support your
academic work

• Presenting Information: bring together
your learning and present it in an effective
and professional context

www.whc.uhi.ac.uk 35

Highers and National 5 qualifications

SCQF levels 5/6

Do you want to study part time and get Key Information
qualifications that you may need to get back
into education? Entry requirements
To study for a Higher, you should have a
Did you miss out on exams at school and relevant National 5 in the appropriate
now want to improve your academic skills subject area. There are a variety of prior
set? Perhaps you have an employment or learning experiences which are relevant to
career goal that requires certain candidates wishing to undertake this course
qualifications? We can help by offering a which may be taken. You will be invited to
range of Higher and National 5 qualifications an interview.
to be studied part time.
What next?
Highers These qualifications are the route to many
• English Higher Education courses and will enable
• Biology you to apply for further study.
• Human Biology
• Environmental Science Base: Anywhere
• Psychology
• Physics
• Sociology
• Photography

National 5 For part time funding information:
• Psychology Visit our website
• Maths
Course Study Key

STEM STUDY
STYLE

36 www.whc.uhi.ac.uk

ESOL: English for Speakers of
Other Languages

Is English not your first language? Key Information
Our part time ESOL courses are perfect for
you if you want to develop your use of English Entry requirements
in personal, social and employment situations. We welcome any student wishing to improve
their English where English is NOT their first
Once you have started on the course, are language. If you are unsure of your level,
feeling relaxed and are happy with your please contact your nearest college learning
fellow students and your lecturer, you can centre to find out more.
decide whether or not you want to sit
assessments. Some students want to do Base: Fort William and Portree
assessments and others do not.
Both options are fine because we welcome For part time funding information:
all learners who want to come to class to Visit our website
practise their English in a supportive and
friendly environment. Course Study Key

If you choose to work towards STUDY
qualifications, you will study ESOL units at STYLE
SCQF levels 2-6. Your lecturer will discuss
levels with you before you decide. Each unit
takes about 36 hours to complete.

Working towards formal qualifications:

ESOL for Everyday Communication
develops the language skills needed for
everyday life in personal, social and
transactional contexts. For example:
providing personal information; talking to
friends and shopping.

ESOL in Context develops the language
skills needed for work or study-related
contexts. For example: writing CVs; emails
or study skills.

If you are not working towards SQA
qualifications you can join the class at any
point in the year and you can study for a
college unit in, for example, research
and presentation.

www.whc.uhi.ac.uk 37

We've got yourAdministration
needs coveredand Business

From part-time courses to kick-start yourRianachd agus Gnothachas
business CV to full-time degrees designed
for senior management and self-starting
business owners, we've got your
needs covered.

With remote learning there's no need to uproot or
commute so you can continue to develop your skills
wherever you are. This will also help towards making you
an independent home-worker in future job markets.

A good business head working with a sound administration
team or individual plays a fundamental role in the modern
business world. Studying administration and IT or
business will give you the knowledge and skills that can
be applied in all sectors and lead to a variety of job
opportunities. Our courses cover topics such as accounts,
business communication, IT, marketing, management,
human resources, entrepreneurial growth and digital
technologies and will ensure that you are fully
equipped to progress to further study or employment.

There are no boundaries in the world of business – the
skills you will leave with after studying with us can open
many doors.

38 www.whc.uhi.ac.uk

41 NQ Business, Administration NEW Administration and Business Rianachd agus Gnothachas
and Marketing
NPA Business with
42 HNC Administration and Information Technology
Information Technology
NPA Information
43 HND Administration and Technology and Audio
Information Technology

44 HNC Business

45 HND Business

46 BA (Hons) Business and
Management

46 BA (Hons) Sports
Management

47 Business and Administration
Professional Development
Awards (PDA)

www.whc.uhi.ac.uk 39

What our
students say

I had been working in admin for 11 years and felt it was time
to upskill and refresh some brain cells, so I decided to study
HNC Administration and Information Technology.
Initially I was nervous as to whether I was too old or if I would have
time to dedicate to my studies. Despite my worries, all staff were so
helpful and supportive and there was an option to study part time.
I was able to study this course online at my local centre in Portree as
well as from home. This meant I could study, work and raise my
family at the same time. We covered many interesting units and I
learnt so much. I particularly enjoyed the spreadsheet unit which was
very practical, and the lecturer made it so interesting. I also really
enjoyed the Personal Development unit where I found out a lot about
myself. It has shown me that you are never too old to learn new skills
and learning can be so flexible to fit around your life. I feel fortunate to be able to have
completed this course without moving away to a city.

Katrina Macleod HNC Administration and Information Technology.

I currently work part-time as a clerical assistant
for Highland Council.
I wanted to update and refresh my skills and
knowledge, so I applied for a college course alongside
my part time job. I have grown from being a technophobe to
a confident IT user and I am proud of my achievements and
would recommend taking that step and getting out of your
comfort zone. Understanding modern administration,
updating my skills and gaining career confidence have been
the most important outcomes of this course. I have the
confidence to compete in the workplace and realise I still
have a lot to offer but most importantly if you are willing to
work hard you can keep learning and developing skills no
matter what your age is – age is not a barrier.

Natalie Duff. NQ Business, Administration and Marketing

40 www.whc.uhi.ac.uk

NQ Business, Administration
and Marketing

SCQF level 5

During the course you will cover a wide Key Information
range of skills required to gain employment
within the business sector including ICT, Entry requirements
business, marketing, events management, You should have at least 3 National 4s or
finance and administration. The course is above or equivalent. Prospective students
made up of transferable skills that can be without the standard entry requirements are
applied to any sector including retail, events, encouraged to apply and will be considered
hospitality, reception, office administration on an individual basis.
and public sector areas.
What next?
We also invite guest speakers throughout You could consider: HNC Business, HNC
the course to share their business Administration and Information Technology,
experience with you. PDA Bookkeeping, PDA Office Administration,
PDA IT in Business or entry level
Included in the course are three National employment within the business sector.
Progression Awards:
• NPA Business with Information Technology Base: Anywhere
• NPA Business with Marketing Course Study Key
• NPA Administration: Information
£FE STUDY
Technology and Audio STYLE

You will cover:
• IT applications: spreadsheets; databases;

touch typing; presentation software, audio
typing and word processing
• office based duties: reception; processing
of business documents, customer service
with social media, and organising events
• personal development: goal setting and
managing time and resources effectively
• marketing, understanding business,
introduction to human resources
and finance
• embedded development of core and
essential skills
• work experience
• 1 industry qualification in an area of your
choice. Options include Emergency First
Aid at Work, HR for Business, Personal
License Holder and Elementary
Food Hygiene.

www.whc.uhi.ac.uk 41

HNC Administration and
Information Technology

SCQF level 7 UCAS CODE 17PN

HNC Administration and Information Key Information
Technology is designed to meet the
demands and requirements of today's Entry requirements
modern business environment and will 1 Scottish Higher at grade C or above,
prepare you to pursue a successful preferably either English or Maths. 1 A level
career in business administration. at grade D or above, preferably either
English or Maths. A relevant NC or NQ
Mandatory units: qualification totaling at least 12 credits,
• IT in business – word processing and NC Administration or NQ Business,
Administration and Marketing. Prospective
presentation applications students without the standard entry
• IT in business – spreadsheets/databases requirements are encouraged to apply and
• office administration will be considered on an individual basis.
• digital technologies for administrators
• recording financial transactions What next?
• personal development planning You could consider applying for HND
• communication: business communication Administration and Information Technology
• graded unit I: administration and or BA (Hons) Business and Management
(year 2) with the University of the Highlands
information technology and Islands or employment in the business
administration sector.
A choice of optional modules:
• creating a culture of customer care Base: Anywhere
• managing people and organisations
• marketing: an introduction Course Study Key
• personal enterprise skills
• work placement £HE STUDY
STYLE
Also included
1 industry qualification in an area of your
choice. Options include Emergency First Aid
at Work, HR for Business, Personal License
Holder and Elementary Food Hygiene.

42 www.whc.uhi.ac.uk

HND Administration and
Information Technology

SCQF level 8 UCAS CODE 75NG

Businesses and organisations rely upon Key Information
people with good skills in administration and
information technology. Entry requirements
2 Scottish Highers at grade C or above OR
The HND will give you advanced IT skills 2 A Levels at grade D or above, both
in word processing, spreadsheets, preferably in English and Maths. Direct entry
presentation, database and desktop to year 2 may be possible with an HNC
publishing. You will also benefit from the Administration and Information Technology.
study of core business skills such as Prospective students without the standard
managing change and developing teams. entry requirements are encouraged to
apply and will be considered on an
Completion of this course provides credits individual basis.
towards several professional qualifications
including Institute of Qualified Private
Secretaries, Institute of Administrative
Management and Association of Secretaries.

Mandatory units are: What next?
• communication: business communication You will be qualified for employment at
• developing the individual within a team senior/supervisory level in office
• graded unit I - III: administration and IT administration, personal assistant or
• IT in business – databases, spreadsheets, secretary. You could also continue your
education by specialising in an area of
word processing, presentation applications your choice.
to advanced level
• office administration, technologies Base: Anywhere
and management
• information and communication Course Study Key
technology in business
• presentation skills £HE STUDY
• personal development planning STYLE
• recording financial transactions

You will also study optional units
that are available in a range of
administrative functions.

www.whc.uhi.ac.uk 43

HNC Business

SCQF level 7 UCAS CODE 001N

HNC Business will give you an excellent Key Information
introduction to a wide range of business
and management skills that are highly Entry requirements
sought-after by employers, including: 1 Scottish Higher at grade C or above or
marketing; communication; IT and 1 A Level at grade D or above or NC
administration and people management. Administration or NQ Business,
Administration and Marketing. Prospective
Mandatory units are: students without the standard entry
• business accounting requirements are encouraged to apply and
• communication: business communication will be considered on an individual basis.
• economic issues: an introduction
• graded unit I: business What next?
• IT in business: spreadsheets You could consider HND Business or BA
• managing people and organisations (Hons) Business and Management (year 2)
• marketing: an introduction or move into employment.

Optional units: Base: Anywhere
• creating a culture of customer care
• personal enterprise skills Course Study Key
• work placement
• digital technologies for administrators
• international marketing

Also included £HE STUDY
1 industry qualification in an area of your STYLE
choice. Options include Emergency First Aid
at Work, HR for Business, Personal License
Holder and Elementary Food Hygiene.

44 www.whc.uhi.ac.uk

HND Business

SCQF level 8 UCAS CODE 101N

The HND Business will develop skills Key Information
acquired on the HNC Business or further
your expertise if you have a business Entry requirements
background. You will gain a broad spectrum 2 Scottish Highers at grade C or above or
of skills that are highly sought-after by 2 A Level at grade D or above. Alternatively,
employers. These include marketing, HNC Business.
communication, IT and administration and
people management. The diverse nature of What next?
the course will ensure that you are equipped On completion of your course you could
with the knowledge to undertake a variety of progress to the third year of the BA (Hons)
business roles, including management. Business and Management degree. You will
also be qualified to take up a variety of posts
Mandatory units are: in administration, business and
• behavioral skills for business management or self-employment.
• business contractual relationships
• business culture and strategy Base: Anywhere
• economics 1: micro and macro theory Course Study Key

and application £HE STUDY
• economics 11: the world economy STYLE
• graded unit 11: business
• information and communication

technology in business
• preparing financial forecasts
• statistics for business

Optional units may include:
• international marketing: an introduction
• presentation skills
• work experience
• visual communication

www.whc.uhi.ac.uk 45

BA (Hons) Business and Management

UCAS CODE NN21

This broad-based qualification will introduce Key Information
you to all aspects of today’s modern business
and the domestic and global environment in Base: Anywhere
which it operates. Course Study Key

You will consider complex problem solving, £HE STUDY
understanding the decision-making process STYLE
and effectively communicating with a wide
range of internal and external stakeholders.

Core modules will be covered in years one
and two, giving you a solid foundation. In
years three and four you can choose to
study for a generic degree in business and
management or you can focus on one
particular aspect which will allow you to exit
at the end of the fourth year with a themed
award. E.g. Business Management with
Human Resource Management.

Upon completion, students will be eligible
to apply for Associate Membership of the
Chartered Management Institute.

BA (Hons) Sports Management

UCAS CODE C6N2

Are you seeking a broad-based management Key Information
qualification that will introduce you to all
aspects of today's modern sporting Base: Anywhere
business? This course will equip you with Course Study Key
the essential skills you need for a career in
sports management, including marketing, £HE STEM STUDY
human resources, business law and IT. STYLE

In the first and second years of the
degree, you will have the option of
studying coaching and developing sport,
or fitness and exercise. In the the third
and fourth years, you can specialise in
sports management.

46 www.whc.uhi.ac.uk

Business and Administration Professional
Development Awards (PDA)

SCQF level 7

This suite of part time Professional presentation techniques; the current legal
Development Awards (PDA) are designed and regulatory requirements relating to an
for those already in a career who wish to administration environment. This PDA could
extend or broaden their skills or those who allow you to progress to the full HNC in
have studied a relevant course at NC or NQ Administration and IT or HNC in Business
level and wish to progress their studies. carrying forward the credits you achieve.

These 36-week part time courses are Content includes:
available for both September and January • office administration
start dates. • digital technologies for administrators
• communication: business communications
PDA in Bookkeeping • personal development planning
Develop your technical and administrative
knowledge relevant to book-keeping and PDA Information Technology
financial accounting practice. in Business
Gain the advanced IT skills and knowledge
This PDA could allow you to progress to the needed for a range of administrative roles
full HNC in Administration and IT or HNC in within a business environment using Excel,
Business carrying forward the credits Access, Word and PowerPoint. This PDA
you achieve. could allow you to progress to the full HNC
in Administration and IT, or HNC in Business
The award consists of 3 mandatory units: carrying forward the credits you achieve.
• Recording Financial Transactions: work
Content includes:
with a double entry book- keeping system • Improve your skills and understanding
to extract a trial balance and prepare a
VAT return. of word processing and presentation
• Using Financial Accounting Software: packages to aid business communication.
learn the ins and outs of financial • Develop an understanding of
accounting software in the preparation database management software and
and production of a range of the application of databases to aid
accounting reports. business decision making.
• Payroll: learn basic payroll calculations • Master spreadsheets and their use in
and procedures and use of payroll providing solutions to business problems
software package to process payroll. and to develop skills using technology in
an administrative role.
PDA in Office Administration
Develop a wide range of skills in technical Base: Anywhere
and administrative knowledge relevant to
current administrative practice; personal
effectiveness; communication and

For part time funding information:
Visit our website

www.whc.uhi.ac.uk 47

Join the growing beauty industry Beauty and Make-up

Do you love everything to do with beauty Bòidhchead agus Maise-Gnùis
and make-up?

Then this is your chance to develop your skills and knowledge in
our training salon in Portree. Brush up your skills or take the first
step to a new career in the thriving beauty industry. We offer a
range of qualifications with options for part-time study so you can
learn while you continue to work.
The growing beauty sector is a great place for creatives. You can
work in make-up for every day, for theatre or fashion or perhaps
you want to specialise in decorative nail technology. New
treatments and technology are always being developed. With more
services being offered, there is a greater demand for skilled
clinicians and therapists. It is a client facing industry that is
perfect if you are outgoing and enjoy meeting new people. There
is room for self-employment, flexible work patterns, and lots of
variety. No two days are ever the same.

48 www.whc.uhi.ac.uk