Colleges Background
Scotland's further education colleges are open to all. They offer a wide range of courses and an accessible and friendly learning environment.
Colleges deliver courses at different levels, mainly offering non-advanced education and training (vocational and non-vocational). This includes SVQ, Certificate Courses, HNC and HND. They also deliver courses at advanced level leading to higher education qualifications.
Courses can be full or part time and some are offered on a distance-learning basis.
Specialist provision is also offered, for example to people with a disability, people with learning difficulties or additional support needs, and people whose first language is not English.
The average age of college students today is approaching 30. Everyone (old or young) can find a course or area of study that matches their ability and career aspirations.
