WEST College Scotland’s Greenock campus is re-instating a course that gives students a direct pathway into university.

The Access to Humanities programme resumes in August after a gap of seven years.

Students will be able to study social science and social work, opening up a range of university courses including history, politics, and social work.

Greenock student Dominic Santos, 25, went to West College Scotland with his sights set on university.

He’d had been out of education for a number of years, but, thanks to the Access to Humanities course, he’s well on his way to achieving his goal.

He has had to travel to the college’s Paisley campus, but would have been able to study in Greenock from this year.

Dominic said: “The course really appealed to me because of the progression routes into university. The career paths I’ve chosen all involve helping and caring for people, and the humanities course was perfect for providing the knowledge I need to really develop this.

“Going back into full-time education can be daunting for a mature student, but my lecturers were so welcoming, helpful, and supportive. I found the whole college experience excellent in re-familiarising myself with an education environment, in preparation for university.

“Help is always at hand and the lecturers go above and beyond for their students – I can’t emphasise enough how amazing they’ve all been.”

Dominic is now moving on to higher education.

He said: “I’ve applied to universities and have heard back from a few already. My dream would be to get through uni and become a lecturer – to develop my skills and pass them on to others would be fantastic.”

Julie Greer, curriculum leader for humanities at the college’s Greenock campus, is looking forward to welcoming students on to the course.

She said: “We are delighted this course is back in Greenock, widening the opportunities in our community for those who have been out of formal education for some time.

“It is a great, local pathway for those considering re-entering education to study social science subjects.” 

Applications are open now and more information is available at www.westcollegescotland.ac.uk