Key details

Course area
Construction
Student type
University Level
Course type
Part-time University Level course
Course level
Level 4
Start date
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, which are:

  • Unit 1: Construction Design Project (set by awarding body)
  • Unit 3: Science and Materials
  • Unit 4: The Construction Environment
  • Unit 6: Digital Applications for Construction Information (or alternative)
  • Unit 7: Surveying, Measuring and Setting Out
  • Unit 8: Mathematics for Construction
  • Unit 17: Civil Engineering Technology
  • Unit 19: Principles of Structural Design

Timetable

One day per week, plus self directed study.

You will study this course alongside fellow HNC students and apprentices.

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 64 UCAS points from:

  • At least two A Levels, one must be a relevant subject, such as, maths or physics
  • Level 3 BTEC Diploma or Extended Diploma
  • International Baccalaureate
  • Access to HE Diploma
  • T levels

Other combinations of qualifications and experience may also be considered.

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.

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. 

Examples of potential roles in different areas or civil engineering include: Construction Site Engineering Technician, Civil Engineering Senior Technician.

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

£77,496.19

Average Earnings

£50,603.18

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

Employment opportunities

The number of job postings in this career for previous years starting from 2023, the current year and projections for future years until 2034.

Sources: The Labour Force Survey (LFS), Working Futures (projections) data, and Business Register and Employment Survey (BRES).

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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