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Key details

Course area
Construction
Student type
University Level
Course type
Part-time University Level course
Course level
Level 4
Start date
Monday 21st September 2026
Location
Basford 664 Nuthall Road, Nottingham, NG8 6AQ
Fees
£4,125.00
Course code
Parent course code:C054457 Child course code: Q054458
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Course introduction

The HNC in Civil Engineering offers a comprehensive understanding of the design, function, construction, and essential requirements for buildings and structures of all types.

HNCs are well-known and respected Level 4 qualifications in the global construction industry. The course has been tailored to make you highly employable and a valuable asset within the sector.  You’ll study key subjects that clearly align with industry standards, equipping you for a successful career in this dynamic and rewarding field.  

Equivalent to the first year of a university degree, the course develops the practical and personal skills necessary for a role in this exciting and rapidly expanding sector. 

Key Civil Engineering principles covered include: materials, numeracy, construction technology, sustainable construction and health and safety.  Themes covered are based around real-world project scenarios and simulated problems.

There are 8 units on this course: 6 compulsory and 2 options. The compulsory units are:

  • Unit 1: Construction Design Project (set by awarding body)
  • Unit 3: Science and Materials
  • Unit 4: The Construction Environment
  • Unit 8: Mathematics for Construction
  • Unit 17: Civil Engineering Technology
  • Unit 19: Principles of Structural Design

The 2 options have not been finally decided at the time of publishing this summary (February 2025).  Please check with the college for more information as we approach the start of the course.

A brand-new Construction Skills Centre recently opened at our long-established Basford campus, already home to the largest construction training facility in the East Midlands region.  Nottingham College has invested heavily in these facilities, so you’ll have access to industry-standard workshops and resources. 

Timetable (subject to change)

The current timetable is as follows but this is subject to change:

  • Tuesday 09:00 – 16:15
  • Plus self directed study

Please note: Some classes may be delivered online.

Course information

2 years

Pearson BTEC Level 4 Higher National Certificate in Civil Engineering

You’ll need a minimum of 48 UCAS points from:

  • At least two A Levels at A2
  • Level 3 BTEC Diploma or Extended Diploma
  • International Baccalaureate
  • Access to HE Diploma
  • T levels

Other combinations of qualifications and experience will also be considered, as will Level 3 qualifications not currently listed on the UCAS tariff.

GCSE English Language and Maths passes at Grades 9 to 4 (previously A* to C) are required. As an equivalent, we expect applicants to be working at (or to demonstrate their competency at) Level 2 or above in English/literacy and Maths/numeracy.

Mature applicants with relevant industrial experience - but not with the standard educational requirements - are encouraged to apply. Applicants will be considered based on experience and may be invited to an informal interview to assess their ability to successfully complete the course.

Each unit is assessed following Pearson’s guidelines using a range of assessment methods, including individual presentations, report writing, research and project work.  There will also be opportunities to go on site visits and learn at first hand from guest speakers from a range of key industrial sectors and roles. 

This Level 4 Higher National Certificate course has been designed to advance your career potential in structural, public health, highways and transport, hydraulics/water, geotechnical or site engineering. You may already be employed in the civil engineering and construction sector; for instance, by a contractor, consultant, utility company, local authority or other public or private body. 

After completion of the HNC, you could progress to a Level 5 qualification (such as a Higher National Diploma) or direct entry to the second year of a degree. Degrees are available at several universities accredited by the Institution of Civil Engineers (ICE) as part of the pathway to full membership status. 

About the Teaching Excellence Framework (TEF)

The TEF is a national scheme run by the Office for Students (OfS) that aims to encourage higher education providers to improve and deliver excellence in the areas that students care about the most: teaching, learning and achieving positive outcomes from their studies.

View our TEF assessment (opens in a new window/tab) Learn more about the TEF (opens in a new window/tab)

Careers related to this course

Civil Engineers

Potential Earnings

£74,273.37

Average Earnings

£49,131.99

Source: Office for National Statistics' Annual Survey of Hours and Earnings (ASHE).

Pathways

Engineering

People in these occupations use scientific principles to solve practical problems across a variety of engineering disciplines: civil, chemical, mechanical, etc.

Skills

Reading Comprehension

Understanding written sentences and paragraphs in work related documents.

Speaking

Talking to others to convey information effectively.

Critical Thinking

Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions or approaches to problems.

Active Listening

Giving full attention to what other people are saying, taking time to understand the points being made, asking questions as appropriate, and not interrupting at inappropriate times.

Writing

Communicating effectively in writing as appropriate for the needs of the audience.
View more about this career

Economic data for careers is provided by Lightcast and also available through our Career Coach app. Job postings, employment and earnings information is represented at the regional level for the East Midlands.

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