degree pathway
student spotlights
As an 18-year-old student, I have uniquely balanced my academic pursuits by studying for my Scottish Highers while simultaneously attending college for Data Science under the Schools College Partnership program. This exceptional dual-enrolment has enabled me to complete both the National Progression Award at SCQF Level 6 and the Professional Development Award at SCQF Level 7 in a single academic year—a rare and advantageous opportunity.
My journey in Data Science began while I was still in school, demonstrating that ambitious students can excel beyond traditional academic pathways. The comprehensive curriculum covered in the Level 6 and Level 7 courses equipped me with a solid foundation in data science principles and practical skills, setting me apart from my peers and providing a robust start to my career in this dynamic field.
The successful completion of these qualifications in one academic year is not only a testament to my dedication and ability to manage demanding workloads but also highlights the efficiency and effectiveness of the Schools College Partnership program. This program has opened doors for me that are typically unavailable to many at this stage of education. As a result of my achievements, I have been accepted into the Data Science degree course at Napier University, furthering my aspirations in the field.
This example of academic acceleration through the Schools College Partnership is a testament to what motivated students can achieve with the right opportunities and support. The program’s flexible structure allows students like me to fast-track our education in data science, providing a significant head start in the competitive field and showcasing the potential for future students to undertake similar accelerated paths.
At 17 years old, I have had the unique opportunity to concurrently pursue my Scottish Highers and delve into the world of data science through the innovative Schools College Partnership. This dual enrolment has not only challenged me academically but also allowed me to complete the National Progression Award at SCQF Level 6 and the Professional Development Award at SCQF Level 7 in Data Science within a single academic year. This achievement is particularly notable as it deviates from the traditional educational trajectory, offering an accelerated path rarely available to students at my level.
The structure of these courses is designed to provide a deep and practical understanding of data science, which has been crucial in equipping me with the skills necessary to advance in this rapidly evolving field. Completing both levels in one year required dedication, rigorous time management, and a passion for data science, which was fostered by the support and guidance from college instructors and the curriculum itself.
My successful completion of these awards under such demanding circumstances has led to my acceptance into the full-time National Certificate in Computing course. This progression is a testament to the effectiveness of integrating higher education standards into college-level teaching, preparing students for further academic and professional opportunities.
This educational model not only demonstrates the feasibility of completing successive qualifications in a shortened period but also emphasizes the potential for other motivated students to pursue similar accelerated learning paths. The success of this program in supporting students like myself should encourage the college to promote and expand the availability of double level courses, enabling more young people to advance rapidly in their chosen fields.
course overview
Unique Data Science opportunity for 5th and 6th year pupils
summary:
Having piloted a trial of this option, we are delighted to be able to open up a unique 2 level course designed for 5th and 6th year pupils in the Edinburgh and Lothians area.
Starting in August 2024, we will be offering a fast-track SCQF Level 6 and 7 option which will give you the opportunity to progress straight into a degree at University.
This course is specifically for S5 and S6 learners attending School.
The field of Data Science combines digital and data skills, specific knowledge about a particular topic or subject area, and numeracy skills to extract insights and knowledge from data.
The ability to identify the problem to solve, the correct data to use, carry out the analysis and then implement the outcome requires the three areas mentioned above to be brought together.
Data Science is becoming essential to how we live, learn and work. It is all about how we turn those insights extracted from data into actions. Many people are keen to learn more and understand this topic, and more employers are seeking applicants with experience in Data Science.
Using the knowledge and skills from this course will help you to develop in your current or future job role.
The course has an 18-week structure and is guided by lecturer support via in-person and online learning.
Upon successfully achieving this course, you will attain a National Progression Award in Data Science at SCQF level 6. Additionally, you will have the opportunity to advance to the Professional Development Award in Data Science at SCQF level 7, beginning in January 2025.
details
Semester One – August 2024 to December 2024
NPA ( National Progression Award ) in Data Science at SCQF Level 6
SQA Certified Units:
- Data Science
- Data Citizenship
- Data Science Project
Semester two– january 2025 to june 2025*
PDA (Professional Development Award) in Data Science at SCQF Level 7
SQA Certified Units:
- Working with Data
- Communicating with Data
- Data Science Project
*progressing to the Level 7 PDA is dependent upon achieving the NPA in Semester One
Both courses have a unique and flexible approach to both learning and assessment. All theoretical evidence will be built up holistically, with all the practical evidence being gathered within one all-encompassing project.
For further details or to apply for this unique opportunity, see the button at the top of this page.
