Entry requirements
Previous knowledge or experience would be of benefit but is not essential.
Why take this course?
Substance misuse is when alcohol, illegal drugs, or over-the-counter or prescription medications are used in a way that could be harmful to you or others.
In 2020, drug poisoning deaths increased by 3.8% compared to the previous year, and was the highest annual number since records began in 1993.
This course will provide you with a range of knowledge and understanding surrounding the subject.
What you will experience
Course content:
Section 1: Substances that are commonly misused – Cover the reasons why people use substances, the types of substances that are misused and the factors that can influence the effects of substances.
Section 2: The personal and social effects of substance misuse – Study the harmful effects of substance misuse on individuals and society, as well as where to get support and advice on substance misuse.
Section 3: The perceptions of and responses to substance misuse -Covers how stereotyping affects users, how media reporting affects people’s perceptions of substance misuse and statistics about substance misuse.
Section 4: Ways to promote healthy choices and build resilience -Look at the risk factors and protective factors for substance misuse, ways to protect individuals from the risks of substance misuse and the barriers to making healthy choices.
Key Facts
Everything you need to know before applying for this course.
Method of study
This course will require you to manage your workload independently, with a basic level of tutor support.
What you will need
Students must have access to a computer with a broadband internet connection.
Student Stories
Douglas Bell
Care
NC Childhood Practice (SCQF Level 6)
“I can honestly say that coming to NESCol is one of the best decisions I’ve ever made, it’s given me a whole new perspective on how enjoyable learning can be. “
Read more about Douglas's story
Katie Mitchell
Care
HNC Childhood Practice
“The lecturers know the course is intense, but they are prepared to put things in place to help you.”
Read more about Katie's story
Peter Shaw
Care
Access to Nursing (SWAP)
“On the SWAP course, I found myself thriving in a way I never had before!”
Read more about Peter's story
Diana Barkauskyte
Care
HNC Childhood Practice
“Studying at NESCol has pushed me out of my comfort zone and has made me the person I am today. I have had great experiences and the opportunity to apply my knowledge in childcare settings, which has made my learning more meaningful.”
Read more about Diana's story
Victoria Grover
Care
HNC Social Services
“I would highly recommend NESCol to anyone thinking about returning to education. As a mature student, I have been supported in many ways and had a great College experience, even with the challenges I’ve faced.”
Read more about Victoria's story
Shania Thom
Care
HNC Childhood Practice
“I would definitely recommend studying at NESCol. The College environment is welcoming, and the community is diverse with different cultures and ages.”
Read more about Shania's story
Kamila Kolmetz
Care
Allied Health Professions (SWAP)
“NESCol is a great place to learn, especially if you have a gap in your education. The lecturers go above and beyond to help students achieve their qualifications and dreams.”
Read more about Kamila's story
Katie McCafferty & Mandy Mackintosh
Care
HNC Childhood Practice
“Starting College as a mature student was quite daunting at first but I can honestly say I’ve never looked back. ” – Katie McCafferty
“It was a lot of hard work but it genuinely just felt like it was where I was meant to be.” – Mandy Mackintosh
Read more about Katie & Mandy's story
Callum Gerrie
Care
HNC Social Services
“My time at NESCol was a hugely positive experience – both in terms of my qualification and the knowledge, understanding and perspective I gained and the social connections I have made.”
Read more about Callum's story
Haley Robertson
Care
HNC Social Services
“I want to let people know if they are a bit scared or worried about going to college, there’s so much help and support available. It’s a really nice place to study. It will be so worthwhile – I’m so happy I did it.”
Read more about Haley's story
Applications
North East Scotland College offers hundreds of courses each year, apply for one now.
Online
-
Starts Flexible start date
-
Ends 31 Jul 2026
-
Course Code C00725
-
Fees £35.00
Alternatively, you can complete a distance learning application form and send it to us.
Please note that timetabling changes can often occur after the Part-time Course Guide is published, and as a result the printed version of the guide may not hold the most up-to-date information.
We therefore advise you that all start dates and times listed on the website are at all times accurate, and should be used as your main point of reference before booking your course.
Fees quoted apply to individuals who meet our residency criteria for home fee status. A higher fee may apply if criteria cannot be met; evidence may be required. Please contact enquiry@nescol.ac.uk for further information.
If you take up a place on a College course, at the start of the course you will be asked to complete an enrolment form. In completing the form and/or taking up a place on a College course, you will enter into a contract with the College and be bound by the North East Scotland College Standard Terms and Conditions of Study. Copies of the Terms and Conditions are available for inspection on notice boards and at various locations throughout the College, at the College Reception, on the College website: nescol.ac.uk, or can be obtained on request from the Student Funding and Admissions Manager, North East Scotland College, Aberdeen City Campus, Gallowgate, Aberdeen AB25 1BN. Please note that courses are offered subject to (a) there being sufficient numbers of enrolments and (b) the availability of resources. The College reserves its right (i) not to run courses where the number of students is considered insufficient or where resources are unavailable and (ii) in certain circumstances, to refuse admission to an individual applicant.
Similar courses for you
Here are some courses you may also be interested in.
