Jump directly to main content Jump directly to menu

Information menu

New module starts, January 2027

Higher skills, one module at a time

Short engineering courses from our HNCs, part online and part on campus, that you can fund through the Lifelong Learning Entitlement.

Choose a module

Two ways to start

Each module is 30 credits, made of two units from one of our Higher National Certificates.

15 weeks, 30 credits

Integrated Engineering Design CAD/CAM Practices

Take an engineering idea from concept to finished product, using industry-standard design and manufacturing technology.

  • Online theory, then hands-on practicals on campus
  • Units 4001 Engineering Design and 4023 CAD/CAM, from the HNC in Manufacturing Engineering
  • Assessed by a technical report, a presentation and a prototype you make by 3D printing or CNC
Apply now
15 weeks, 30 credits

Automation and Mechatronics

The technologies behind Industry 4.0: how mechanical, electrical and control systems work together, PLCs and industrial robots.

  • Online theory, then hands-on practicals on campus
  • Units 4006 Mechatronics and 4015 Automation, Robotics and PLCs, from the HNC in Automation and Control Engineering
  • Practical work in automation, PLC programming and robotics, on specialist lab equipment
Apply now
In more detail

What you will learn

15 weeks, 30 credits

  • Develop engineering solutions from real-world design briefs
  • Produce professional engineering specifications and technical reports
  • Create accurate 3D CAD models for manufacture
  • Generate manufacturing simulations using CAM software
  • Manufacture precision components using CNC machinery
  • Present and evaluate engineering solutions using industry-standard techniques

15 weeks, 30 credits

  • Understand the principles and operation of mechatronic systems
  • Develop design specifications for integrated engineering solutions
  • Explore how mechanical, electrical and control systems work together
  • Understand the architecture and operation of programmable logic controllers (PLCs)
  • Design and develop PLC programs to control automated systems
  • Apply programming techniques and industrial communication methods
  • Program industrial robots to perform automated manufacturing tasks
  • Understand robotic system design, integration and safe operation in industry
Before you apply

Asked most often

What is the Lifelong Learning Entitlement?

A new way to fund study from January 2027. You can use it for a full qualification or one module at a time. Repayments work in a similar way to student loans, and you only start repaying once you earn above £25,000 a year. See our Lifelong Learning Entitlement page.

Do I need to study full time?

No. You can study part time, take one module at a time, and pause and come back later.

What do I get at the end?

Each module is made of units from an HNC, a Higher National Certificate, so it builds your skills and is a step towards higher-level study.

How are the weeks organised?

You start with an induction on campus. Most of the teaching is then online, in live timetabled sessions with guided study in between, and you finish on campus for the practical work and assessment.

When can I apply?

You can apply right now! Once you’ve submitted your application we will confirm your start date with you.

 

 

How do I apply for my funding?

Applications for Lifelong Learning Entitlement funding are now open for courses starting from January 2027. You apply through Student Finance England. These GOV.UK pages explain more: