HNC/HTQ in Mechanical Engineering (Part-time)

Course Specification

HTQ: Higher National Certificate/Diploma in Mechanical Technology

This course is currently being review and aligned with the new HTQ standards. Content may change when the HTQ approval is provided.

The Pearson BTEC Higher National qualifications in Engineering are aimed at students wanting to continue their education through applied learning. Higher Nationals provide a wide-ranging study of the engineering sector and are designed for students who wish to further develop or pursue a career in engineering. In addition to the skills, knowledge and techniques that underpin the study of the sector, Pearson BTEC Higher Nationals in Engineering give students experience of the breadth and depth of the sector that will prepare them for employment, progression within employment or further study.

Entry requirements could include a BTEC Level 3 qualification in Engineering; a GCE Advanced Level profile that demonstrates strong performance in a relevant subject or adequate performance in more than one GCE subject, (this profile is likely to be supported by GCSE grades at A* to C and/or 9 to 4), or other related Level 3 qualifications.

Entry to the course may also be available through related work experience.

 The programme comprises eight separate units of study. Each unit has a value of 15 credits.

• Unit 4001: Engineering Design
• Unit 4002: Engineering Maths
• Unit 4004: Managing a Professional Engineering Project (Note: This is a Pearson-set unit)
• Unit 4008: Mechanical Principles
• Unit 4011: Fluid Mechanics
• Unit 4013: Fundamentals of Thermodynamics and Heat Engines
• Unit 4014: Production Engineering for Manufacture
• Unit 4017: Quality & Process Improvement

Your work will be continually assessed throughout the course. The assessment will depend upon the particular module being studied. Typical assessment methods include assignments, practical experiments, log books and presentations. Please refer to the Course Specification for additional information.

The part-time HNC is a 2-year programme. You will be required to attend college for one day per week (Wednesday in year 1). The academic year is split into three terms over 30 weeks. Informal interview required. No concessions.

We do our best to make HE study as easy as possible for you and that includes making living away from home for the first time an exciting prospect, rather than a cause for concern. 

You could go to work as a mechanical maintenance engineer, mechanical engineer, design engineer, researcher, or in development and quality engineering.  

You can apply online via the APPLY NOW button. If after reading this factsheet you are still undecided, please drop into one of our Advice Events, ring Admissions on 01743 653111 or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.