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Intermediate Certificate: Pathway to Social Sciences SCQF Level 5

Explore Society. Understand People. Build Your Future. Are you curious about how people think, act, interact, or how the world around us is shaped by society and history? This course introduces you to the key ideas, methods, and debates that define the field of Social Science, including Sociology, Psychology, History, and Criminology.

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Level:

Broadly comparable to SCQF Level 5

Study Mode:

  • Full time

Location:

  • Dunfermline
  • Kirkcaldy

Start Date:

Aug 2026

Duration:

  • One year, full time

Who is this course for?

  • This course is designed for: Learners with an interest in Social Science subjects such as people, society, and culture
  • Students looking to transition into higher-level study after school or returning to education
  • Those who want to explore new academic subjects
  • It provides a supportive environment to help you build confidence in research, communication, and critical thinking, while introducing academic study at college level.
  • Please note, this course is not suitable for those under the age of 16 due to the content.

What skills will I learn?

  • Throughout the course, you will develop skills that are valuable in both education and employment, including:
    • Critical Thinking and Analysis – exploring social issues from multiple perspectives
    • Research Skills – gathering and interpreting evidence to understand society
    • Communication Skills – improving written and verbal expression
    • Problem Solving – applying theories to real-world examples
    • Collaboration and Teamwork – working effectively with others
    • Cultural and Societal Awareness – understanding diversity and inequality in modern life

What will I study?

  • You will study a range of fascinating topics across key Social Science disciplines, such as:
  • Sociology – how society is structured and how it shapes behaviour
  • History – the impact of past events on the modern world
  • Criminology – causes and consequences of crime and deviance
  • Psychology – understanding human thought and behaviour
  • Philosophy - introduction to key philosophical ideas and thinkers, exploring questions about knowledge, existence, and ethics

Application Information

What further study options are available?

  • Progression to Pathways to Social Science Level 6
  • Other progression routes to Level 6 courses may be available

What career opportunities are there?

  • Social Worker
  • Community Development Officer
  • Charity/Non-Profit Worker
  • Teacher
  • Market Research
  • Human Resources
  • Public Relations
  • Journalist
  • Criminologist
  • Psychologist

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