Where learning means more
Apply now and start learning something new in January 2026. Our short courses will improve your CV and give you a taster in your favourite subject before you decide to progress further. Choose full-time courses which are free for Scottish residents; you’ll receive a bursary for living costs if you’re on a low income. Part-time courses will fit around your work, or your job-seeking so your benefits stay unaffected.
Access to College
Are you looking for somewhere to start your learning journey? This course is tailor made for those who may not have flourished in school but want to turn things around. Whether you’re just leaving school or have been thinking about your options for a while, this is perfect for you. We’ll help you gain confidence in your abilities, develop study skills, and prepare you for your next steps – all this in a supportive and relaxed environment.
Where: All centres
When: Full-time (3 days per week)
Return to Education
This 11 week course is designed specifically for mature learners who are ready to take bold steps back into education and restart their learning journey. This welcoming programme offers the ideal starting point if you didn't find your place in school or have been away from study for a while— it's never too late to make a fresh start.
Where: All centres
When: Full-time (3 days per week) Starts February 23rd.
NQ Maritime Skills
Do you dream of working on the water? Join this course and discover the amazing opportunities in the maritime sector. You will get hands-on experience and learn the theory behind sailing, stability, and safety. You will also explore the diverse aspects of the industry, from ferries to fish farms, and find out what makes them tick. This course will prepare you for your future career and give you the skills to succeed.
Where: Oban
When: Full time (3 days per week)
Creative Nail Art (SCQF 5)
Develop professional nail art skills in a structured 17‑week course. Each week you will attend a 2‑hour class, gradually building confidence and competence in creating salon quality nail art on hands and feet. Each session will combine theory, demonstrations and plenty of practical work in our college beauty salon.
Where: Oban
When: Part-time (2 hours per week)
NPA Games Development
Do you love playing digital games? Why not make your own? In this NPA Games Development course, you will learn how to plan, design, and create your own games. You will explore different platforms, genres, and media assets. You will use a game development environment to produce a working game. You will also learn how to evaluate, promote, and share your game. This is your chance to unleash your creativity and become a game developer!
Where: All centres
When: Part-time. Thursdays all day.
Plan and Deliver Training Sessions SCQF Level 6
This course has been designed to give an initial qualification to those with limited or no prior experience of planning and delivering training and has been specifically designed for use in Care settings. This fun and interactive course will enable you to develop the confidence and skills to effectively share your knowledge with others.
You should have vocational expertise or subject knowledge and your job role should include the training of others in small groups of around 4-7 learners in work-related learning settings.
It is also suitable for anyone aspiring to a training role, or who expects to have some responsibility for training as part of a future job role.
Where: All centres (and online)
When: Starts February for 14 weeks
Technology Enabled Care
This course has been designed and developed to support Scotland's National Digital Health and Care Strategy and workforce education around technology-enabled care. It would be of interest to those who are new to technology-enabled care as well as those who have experience within the field. It is specifically designed to enable you to develop or advance your knowledge, skills and abilities in this ever-changing field of practice.
Where: All centres
When: 4 hours per week for 17 weeks
Health and Social Care Administration of Medicine
This course is an essential part of training for all carers involved in the administration of medication in care homes, residential care or care at home services.
The award will become part of the recommended CPD for staff working in this sector. The PDA consists of two units: Administration of Medication and Administer Medication to Individuals.
Where: All centres
When: Part-time. 6 month course
Single Units
Are you looking for something more individual? Did you know that you can study a single unit from any of our full-time courses. Trying just one unit can give you an insight into your chosen subject and find out what studying with UHI is like. Choose from any SQA unit or degree module, most will require you to attend a 2-hour class every week and carry out some self-directed study at home. Contact your nearest learning centre for advice on what’s available locally.
Where: your local centre
When: 2 hours per week (times vary)