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HNC Mechanical Engineering (Level 4) — Part-time

Course outline

Mechanical engineers are essential to the workings of our modern world, combining imagination and technology to offer innovative solutions.

They design, build and test new products, processes and systems. On this exciting new course, you’ll develop holistic engineering knowledge and problem-solving abilities as you work towards a globally-recognised qualification, sought after in a wide range of sectors.

About the course

Mathematical and scientific principles underpin mechanical engineering, used to produce engineering designs and manage engineering projects. You will expand your problem-solving abilities, working as part of a team and developing key analytical skills. You’ll study advanced design analysis and manufacturing techniques, enabling you to turn engineering design solutions into innovative, efficient, durable and sustainable products and systems. Advanced mathematical and engineering modelling techniques are used for optimising mechanical and thermodynamic systems such as power transmission mechanisms and heat exchangers.

HNC Core units:

  • Engineering Science
  • Managing a Professional Engineering Project
  • Engineering Maths
  • Engineering Design

HNC Indicative specialist units:

  • Materials, Properties and Testing
  • Mechanical Principles
  • Fundamentals of Thermodynamics and Heat Engines
  • Fluid Mechanics

How to apply for this course

Apply online to start in 2024/25.

Want to find out more first?

Would you like more information? Email our HE team.

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Location Date Fees / reductions
Jesse Boot Avenue
Science Park
University Boulevard
Nottingham
NG7 2RU

Start: Monday 23rd September 2024

The tuition fee is per year.

Various bursaries are available for some Higher Education courses.

Tuition fee: £3,375

Course code: C050198 / Q050199

Qualification

Level 4 Higher National Certificate in Mechanical Engineering

Duration

2 years

Level Level 4
Entry requirements

We expect applicants to be working at (or to demonstrate competency at) Level 2 or above in English/literacy and maths/numeracy. We accept GCSE passes in English Language and maths at Grades 9 to 4 (previously A* to C).

Applicants must also have a minimum of 48 UCAS points from study at Level 3:

  • At least two A Levels at A2
  • 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.

Mature applicants not meeting the standard entry criteria but with relevant industry or life experience are very welcome to apply.

Teaching & assessment

A variety of traditional and innovative assessment methods are used, including: essays, technical reports, project plans, worked solutions and presentations.

Progression

The HNC qualification is widely recognised in its own right and provides students with the skills required for employment in a broad range of industries with either a managerial or technical bias. After successfully completing the HNC you could top up your qualification to the HND at the college and then the third year of a BEng or BSc (Honours) degree at a wide range of institutions.

Graduates will be well-placed for a career in a variety of engineering sectors including manufacturing, utilities, power generation, process, aerospace, rail and automotive. Typical roles include design, research, testing, production, quality, operations, maintenance and project management.

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.

Learn more about the TEF