HNC/HTQ Modules in Mechanical Engineering for England
| Mode of study | HE Part-time |
| Duration | 16 Weeks |
| Campus | London Road Campus |
| Start date | 22 January 2025 Please note that day of week is just an indication at this stage and could be subject to change |
| Course code | PLR4HME (2425B) |
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This short higher-level programme focusses on:
Engineering Mechanics and Materials
Every aspect of engineering depending upon the use and manipulation of materials, whether naturally occurring or man-made, it is the properties of these materials that are fundamental to their creation, processing and application and therefore the focus of this unit.
Computer Aided Design and Manufacture (CAD/CAM)
The capacity to quickly produce finished components from a software model is now essential in the competitive world of manufacturing. Businesses now invest heavily in Computer Aided Design (CAD) software, Computer Aided Manufacture (CAM) software and Computer Numerical Control (CNC) machines to facilitate this, thus reducing product lead times. With CAD giving design engineers the platform to creatively model components that meet the specific needs of the consumer, these models are combined with CAM software to make manufacturing is made a reality.
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Who is it for?
This 15-week part-time course is aimed at those wishing to further their academic qualifications and enhance their career opportunities within the engineering industry. The purpose of Pearson BTEC Higher Nationals in Electrical and Electronic Engineering for England is to broaden employees' knowledge in anticipation of the fast paced technological advances in this industry.
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Entry Requirements
All applicants are individually assessed on their qualifications, skills, and experience. You should have the desire to further your career in the engineering Industry and hold either a Level 3 NVQ Diploma or BTEC Level 3 Diploma in Engineering, a BTEC National Award or A Levels or equivalent. Applicants should also have GCSE Maths and English (or equivalent). If the applicant has the necessary experience within professional roles but not the appropriate qualification, then this will be assessed on evidence of work history.
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What does the course involve?
Unit 4063: Engineering Mechanics and Materials - This unit explores the fundamental structure of common engineering materials, their principal mechanical, chemical and electrical properties, and how these properties affect manufacture, application, service life and end-of-life management and recycling. Systems for categorising and ranking materials are also covered. Finally, the service life performance of these materials is studied through calculations that measure their performance in static and dynamic applications, building on the work started in the associated level 4 unit, Engineering Science. On successful completion of this unit, students will be able to identify the underlying structural properties of engineering materials and how these properties relate to their application and performance. They will also be confident in completing calculations relating to the static performance of these materials when in service.
Unit 4023: Computer Aided Design and Manufacture (CAD/CAM) - this unit introduces students to all the stages of the CAD/CAM process and to the process of modelling components using CAD software specifically suitable for transferring to CAM software. Among the topics included in this unit are: programming methods, component set-up, tooling, solid modelling, geometry manipulation, component drawing, importing solid model, manufacturing simulation, data transfer, CNC machine types and inspections.
On successful completion of this unit students will be able to illustrate the key principles of manufacturing using a CAD/CAM system; produce 3D solid models of a component suitable for transfer into a CAM system; use CAM software to generate manufacturing simulations of a component; and design a dimensionally accurate component on a CNC machine using a CAD/CAM system.
The below link will take you to further information. By opening this site, you can then search on Units 4063 and 4023:
Unit Descriptors for the Pearson BTEC Higher Nationals Engineering Suite
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How is the course assessed?
Your work will be continually assessed throughout this flexible and blended programme. Attendance will be required at key points throughout the 15 weeks with online support and resources available throughout.
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How much does it cost?
This programme is fully funded by the Department for Education for students who are resident in England.
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What do I do next?
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.
Beth Knight
A Level Product Design (Media Studies and Music)
Previous school: Belvidere School
I took Product Design at A Level because I was inspired by my GCSE teacher. I really enjoy how hands on the subject is and using the computers to bring your designs to life. You can explore your creative side in a relaxed environment.
Samantha Pitchford
Level 2 Fabrication and Welding
Previous school: Charlton School
I’m a practical person, so I wanted to do something with my hands. I didn’t have any experience before, but the teachers were really good at guiding me through. I’m a bit of a perfectionist, so the fact that the staff let me work to my own pace really helped. I have now secured an Apprenticeship with Caterpillar in Shrewsbury, and I can see myself being there for some time. I’m sure it wouldn’t have happened unless I’d been on this course as at my interview they seemed really impressed with what I was doing.
Owen Mason
Level 3 Extended Diploma in Engineering
Previous school: Church Stretton School
I came here because I'm interested in Engineering. I really enjoyed doing my final project and having the creativity to come up with my own design and I have also enjoyed working with hydraulics. I achieved D*D*D* in my Diploma and am now going on to do an Apprenticeship. The teachers are helpful and the equipment at the College is state-of-the-art.
Austin Luzadas
Level 3 in Engineering
Previous school: Holy Trinity School, Telford
Level 2 was mostly practical and this year on Level 3 there is a lot of theory and it's preparing me for university. I live outside of Shrewsbury and the transport links to the College are good.
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