HNC Automation and Control Engineering for England
Level 4 · Part-time · 2 years
Overview
The technologies behind Industry 4.0: how mechanical, electrical and control systems work together, PLCs and industrial robots.
Read the full overview
Each module is 30 credits, made of two units from one of our Higher National Certificates.
What you’ll study
Level 4 · 2 units
What you will learn:
- 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
This module
- MechatronicsUnit 4006
- Automation, Robotics & PLCsUnit 4015
Occasional changes to modules and course content may take place. Students will be notified when applicable.
How you’ll learn
Online theory, then hands-on practicals on campus. Practical work in automation, PLC programming and robotics, on specialist lab equipment.
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.
Meet us at an open event.
Start dates
Start dates are to be confirmed. Ask us and we will tell you as soon as they are set.
Entry requirements
Entry requirements are to be confirmed. Ask us and we will tell you what you need.
Where it leads
The full course
This module is part of our HNC Automation and Control Engineering for England.
Fees and funding
The fee for this module is to be confirmed.
Financial support
The Lifelong Learning Entitlement is a new way to fund study from January 2027. You can use it for a full qualification or one module at a time.
We also have a range of other financial support available.
Lifelong Learning Entitlement (LLE)
If your course starts on or after 1 January 2027, you may need to apply for student finance through the new Lifelong Learning Entitlement (LLE). It’s loan funding you could use across your working life, and applications are now open.
- Applications for the Lifelong Learning Entitlement (LLE) are now open
- Student finance if your course starts on or after 1 January 2027
- How much LLE you could get
Find out more on our Lifelong Learning Entitlement page.
Questions about funding?
Your next step
Apply now, come and see us first, or ask us anything.
What happens after you apply
1
You apply
Apply direct to us online, and we’ll reply by email.
2
You hear back
You’ll get an unconditional offer, a conditional offer, or an unsuccessful application.
3
You get ready to start
Before you enrol we’ll need photo ID and copies of your certificates. Apply for Student Finance early.