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Pearson BTEC HNC in Building Services (Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning)

Ready to Take the Next Step in Your Construction Career?

Interested in becoming a Building Services Engineer or HVAC Technician? Looking to boost your career with a nationally recognised qualification? The Higher National Certificate (HNC) in Building Services (HVAC) at UcDon could be your perfect next move.

Why Choose Building Services (HVAC)?

HVAC professionals play a crucial role in the construction industry by designing, installing, and maintaining heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems. These systems are essential for creating comfortable, safe, and energy-efficient environments in both residential and commercial buildings. As a Building Services Engineer, you’ll be at the forefront of innovation, sustainability, and energy management in the built environment.

What Will You Learn?

Our HNC in Building Services (HVAC) equips you with the technical knowledge and practical skills employers want. You’ll learn how to:

  • Design and install energy-efficient HVAC systems
  • Understand the principles of heating, ventilation, and air conditioning
  • Monitor and manage the performance of building systems
  • Navigate building regulations, health and safety requirements, and environmental standards
  • Work with the latest industry technologies and software

You’ll graduate with hands-on experience and the confidence to step into the industry as a work-ready professional.

A Strong Foundation for Career Growth

The HNC in Building Services (HVAC) is more than just a qualification—it’s a career launchpad. Many students use it as a stepping stone to Level 5 and beyond, specialising in areas like energy management, sustainable design, or advanced HVAC systems. We also encourage students to join professional bodies to support their career development and gain industry recognition.

Learn from Industry Experts

At UcDon, you’ll be taught by experienced professionals with extensive industry knowledge. Passionate about sustainability and technological innovation, our staff are dedicated to developing the next generation of skilled, adaptable, and efficient building services engineers and HVAC technicians.

Start building your future in building services—apply now and join a community shaping tomorrow’s energy-efficient built environment.

Key Information

  • Course Level

    Level 4

  • Delivery

    Part-Time

  • Duration

    2 Years

  • Awarding Body

    Pearson

Apply or Enquire

What Will You Study in the HNC in Building Services (HVAC)?

The HNC in Building Services (HVAC) provides you with a comprehensive understanding of the key principles and practices in the design, installation, and maintenance of heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems. Throughout the course, you’ll engage with both theoretical and practical learning, preparing you for a successful career in building services.

Key Modules You Will Study:

  • Unit 1 – Construction Design Project
    Learn how to apply your knowledge to real-world construction design, where you’ll explore project management, team collaboration, and design development to solve practical problems.
  • Unit 4 – The Construction Environment
    Gain an understanding of the construction industry’s framework, focusing on the physical, economic, and environmental factors that influence building services.
  • Unit 8 – Mathematics for Construction
    Develop the essential mathematical skills necessary for design and engineering calculations in building services, ensuring you’re equipped to work with complex data and specifications.
  • Unit 9 – Principles of Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning (HVAC)
    Dive deep into the fundamental principles of HVAC systems, including air quality control, heating and cooling processes, and energy-efficient solutions.
  • Unit 15 – Principles of Alternative Energy
    Explore the growing field of sustainable building services, learning how alternative energy sources like solar, wind, and geothermal can be integrated into modern building systems.
  • Unit 20 – Site Supervision and Operations

Focus on the practicalities of leading site teams, managing safety, ensuring quality, and delivering on time.

  • Unit 22 – Scientific Principles for Building Services
    Build a strong foundation in the scientific principles that underpin building services, including thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, and heat transfer, essential for HVAC system design.
  • Unit 26 – Digital Applications for Building Information Modelling (BIM)
    Learn how to use cutting-edge digital tools to design, model, and manage building services projects, preparing you for the future of the construction industry with BIM technology.

This combination of theory and practical knowledge will ensure you have the skills needed to work effectively in the HVAC and building services industry, equipping you with everything from system design to energy management.

Recognised. Respected. Ready for Industry.

The HNC in Building Services (HVAC) is a career-focused qualification that prepares you for the fast-paced and dynamic building services industry. It combines classroom learning with practical, real-world experience to equip you with the technical knowledge and hands-on skills that employers are seeking.

What to Expect on the Course

Your timetable will include a blend of the following:

  • Theory-led lectures & seminars – Explore the principles of building services engineering, focusing on HVAC systems, energy efficiency, sustainability, and building regulations.
  • Practical workshops & assessments – Gain valuable hands-on experience in designing and analysing HVAC systems, and develop your skills in CAD and digital applications.
  • Employability-focused sessions – Get job-ready with training in professional communication, project management, and understanding industry expectations.
  • 1:1 Tutorials – Dedicated time with your tutors to track your progress, receive feedback, and build confidence in your studies.

Diverse and Dynamic Assessments

We understand that everyone learns differently, so our assessments reflect this diversity and help you showcase both your theoretical knowledge and practical skills. These may include:

  • Real-world project planning and management
    • Technical reports and reflective essays
    • Practical demonstrations and CAD outputs
    • Presentations, posters, and even podcast-style submissions
    • Time-constrained tasks to mirror workplace challenges
    • Group work, peer review, and tutor observations

Every assessment is carefully designed to help you build your confidence, develop your communication skills, and prepare you for success in the building services and HVAC industry.

Entry Requirements

We welcome applications from individuals passionate about building services and HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning), who are ready to pursue a career in this dynamic sector.

Typical Entry Requirements:
• A minimum of 32 UCAS Tariff points
• Achieved through one or more of the following:

  • BTEC Extended Diploma, Diploma, or Subsidiary Diploma
  • Level 3 Advanced Apprenticeship
  • One A Level in a relevant subject (e.g., physics, mathematics, or environmental science)

No Traditional Qualifications? We Still Want to Hear from You!

At UCDon, we are committed to widening access to education and creating pathways into the HVAC industry for individuals from all backgrounds.

If you don’t meet the standard academic entry requirements but have relevant industry experience or have been out of formal education for some time, we will still consider your application. Every application is reviewed on an individual basis, and we’ll offer guidance to help you understand your options and how to proceed.

Key Information:
Minimum Age: You must be 18 or over at the time of enrolment.
September 2025 Intake: Enrolment starts week commencing [insert date].
Applicants under 21: Must have a minimum of 32 UCAS points to meet entry requirements. Not sure what your qualifications are worth? We can help you calculate your UCAS points.

Ready to start your journey into the world of HVAC? Apply now or get in touch with us for personalised guidance.

Opportunities
This qualification opens the door to numerous roles within the building services sector. Typical career paths include:

  • HVAC Engineer – Specialise in designing, installing, and maintaining heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems.
  • Building Services Manager – Oversee and coordinate the operation of building systems, including HVAC, ensuring compliance with regulations and efficiency.
  • Energy Manager – Focus on improving energy efficiency within buildings, managing energy use, and implementing sustainability practices.
  • Sustainability Consultant – Advise on energy-efficient and environmentally-friendly building solutions, including HVAC system design.

Take Your Learning Further
The HNC also provides a strong foundation for further study, with flexible progression options such as:

  • Pearson BTEC Level 5 Higher National Diploma (HND) – Specialise further in building services, focusing on advanced HVAC technologies and energy management.
  • Top-up to a degree in Building Services Engineering (Level 6) – Ideal for those aiming for senior roles or seeking chartered status.

Whether you’re beginning your career or looking to take it to the next level, the HNC in Building Services (HVAC) offers the skills and qualifications needed for success in a fast-growing and rewarding industry.

Financial Support

UK students may be eligible for support via loans and grants.

Check out the financial support available.

Course Fees

UK

£3475.00 per year

Additional Costs

Additional Costs – What You Need to Know

Your tuition fees cover the essentials—including registration, teaching, and assessment—so you can focus on your studies without unexpected costs.

However, there may be a few optional or extra expenses you might want to plan for, such as:

  • Books and Study Materials
    You’ll have full access to the HE library and digital resources, including core textbooks on your reading lists. But if you prefer your own copies for highlighting, note-taking or long-term use, you might choose to purchase some books.
  • Printing and Photocopying
    While most coursework is submitted digitally, you may occasionally need to print materials for presentations, portfolios or personal use.
  • Field Trips and Enrichment Activities
    We aim to enhance your learning with optional trips, site visits, or industry events. Some of these may involve a small cost, but they offer valuable real-world insight and networking opportunities.

We’re transparent about course costs—and we’re here to support you in budgeting for your studies. If you’re unsure about anything, just ask—we’re happy to help.

Apply or Enquire

Applying only to University Campus Doncaster? You can directly apply.

If you are applying only to University Campus Doncaster and not to any other universities or providers, you can do so directly by using the following link.

Apply directly to us if we are your only option

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