HNC Engineering (Mechanical, Manufacturing, Electrical & Electronic)
Learning and Teaching The philosophy behind every engineering course at the college is that you can’t just learn the theory and be a good engineer, you have to put theory into practice! You will focus on applying the knowledge and theory learnt in the classroom in our brand-new laboratories and manufacturing facility. A variety of learning and teaching opportunities will be available on your course. Your learning will include lectures, tutorials and classroom-based learning supplemented by practical activities to reinforce your understanding. Studying will include individual and group working; you’ll learn how to become an effective team member, developing your leadership, communication and project management skills throughout the course. Higher education courses also require students to undertake independent study and so approximately 60% of your studies will be through independent learning, research, reading and completing assessments. Assessment The course is continuously assessed through a number of assignments set within the individual units. The assessment methods are wide and varied. You could find yourself writing a technical report, delivering a presentation or undertaking a viva-voce. The assessment methods are chosen with a view to developing the skills demanded of industry. Units Over the two-year programme, you will develop a broad knowledge and awareness of key aspects of the engineering sector through the study of transition units along with eight units with a total credit value of 120 credits. The overall qualification will be graded at Pass, Merit or Distinction depending on unit achievements.
Year 1 (Level 3/4)
Units common to all pathways:
• General Engineering Principles
Regardless of your chosen pathway, an understanding of the fundamental principles which underlie modern engineering will stand you in good stead for your future career. In this unit you will learn about Mathematics which is one of the fundamental underpinning topics of engineering. This bridging unit will assess your current level of mathematics knowledge and develop your maths skills so you’re fully prepared for the course ahead. The unit will cover topics including advanced graphical techniques, the application of algebraic techniques, the manipulation of trigonometric expressions and their applications, and an introduction to calculus.
You will also learn about Engineering Science. Engineering is a discipline that uses scientific theory to design, develop or maintain structures, machines, systems, and processes. Engineers are therefore required to have a broad knowledge of the science that is applicable to the industry around them.
This unit introduces students to the fundamental laws and applications of the physical sciences within engineering and how to apply this knowledge to find solutions to a variety of engineering problems.
• Engineering Design Project
Design turns an idea into a useful artefact, the problem into a solution, or something ugly and inefficient into an elegant, desirable and cost-effective everyday object. The aim of this unit is to introduce students to the methodical steps that engineers use in creating functional products and processes; from a design brief to the work, and the stages involved in identifying and justifying a solution to a given engineering need.
The responsibilities of the engineer go far beyond completing the task in hand. Reflecting on their role in a wider ethical, environmental and sustainability context starts the process of becoming a professional engineer – a vial requirement for career progression.
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• Students must be aged 18 years on or before 31st August of the academic year that the programme commences.
• A minimum of 32 UCAS points is required for entry on to the programme, including points from a Level 3 qualification.
• GCSE English and Maths at Grade C or above, equivalent Level 2 qualification or be able to demonstrate equivalent skills to IELTS 5.5 including reading and writing at 5.5.
• Example entry qualifications include A-levels, BTEC Level 3 Diploma, City & Guilds Level 3 Diploma and Access to HE.
You may have also completed an Advanced Apprenticeship.
• It is recognised that some learners may have significant relevant work experience or other professional qualifications and therefore may be admitted to the programme based on further discussion/interview.
• It is recognised that some learners may have significant relevant work experience or other professional qualifications and therefore may be admitted to the programme based on further discussion/interview.
The Level 4 Higher National Certificate in Engineering will develop personal, professional and employability skills to prepare students for employment or continue in higher education. Typically, after completing the Level 4 HNC students could enter employment in a wide variety of sectors including aerospace, transport, telecommunications, energy and manufacturing. For those who wish to further your study beyond the HNC, you could progress onto the HND. This can be studied with us at the College, or students can study elsewhere such as a university depending on the pathway.
