Why choose this course
- Units in mechatronics, automation, robotics, PLCs and programming
- Practical, assessment and employability workshops alongside theory-led lectures
- Engineering knowledge linked to practical skills and workplace scenarios
- Roles such as automation engineer, process control technician, robotics specialist
- Progress to the HND to specialise further
Overview
The Level 4 units lay the foundation of learning by providing a broad introduction to automation and control engineering. Students will gain a wide range of engineering knowledge linked to practical skills obtained through research, independent study, directed study and workplace scenarios. Students are involved in vocational activities that help them to develop behaviours (the attitudes and approaches required for a competence) and transferable skills. Transferable skills are those such as communication, teamwork, research and analysis, which are highly valued in higher education and in the workplace. By the end of Level 4 study, students will have sound knowledge of the basic concepts of automation and control engineering. They will be competent in a range of subject specific skills as well as in general skills and qualities relevant to these key areas of engineering.
What you’ll study
Level 4 · 8 units
This course is comprised of the following core, level 4 units that all students complete. Each unit has a 15-credit value:
Level 4
- Engineering MathsUnit 4002
- Engineering ScienceUnit 4003
- MechatronicsUnit 4006
- Automation, Robotics & PLCsUnit 4015
- Programming for EngineersUnit 4061
- Professional Engineering PracticeUnit 4062
- Engineering Mechanics and MaterialsUnit 4063
- Analogue & Digital ElectronicsUnit 4064
Occasional changes to modules and course content may take place. Students will be notified when applicable.
How you’ll learn
You’ll learn through lectures, seminars and workshops.
- Lectures
- Seminars
- Workshops
- Practical and lab sessions
- One-to-one tutorials
Read more about how you’ll learn
All Higher Technical Qualifications (HTQs) have a practical focus in delivery that compliments the theoretical underpinnings of Engineering study. Students can expect to experience a timetabled schedule of theory-led lectures/seminars alongside practical, assessment and employability workshops that prepare them for industry. All students also receive timetabled tutorial support alongside the formal curriculum.
Meet us at an open event.
Where it can take you
This programme is particularly relevant to people already working in or looking to develop a career within Automation and Control Engineering.
Graduates of this programme typically go on to work in areas including:
- Manufacturing
- The power industry
- Design
- Maintenance
Read more about careers and progression
The programme promotes a rounded skill-set relevant across a variety of different professions.
Upon completion of the HNC Automation and Control Engineering programme (HTQ), graduates possess the skills and knowledge necessary to embark on diverse career paths. With a solid foundation in automation and control systems, they are well-equipped to pursue opportunities in sectors such as manufacturing, energy, aerospace, and telecommunications. Graduates may find roles as automation engineers, process control technicians, robotics specialists, or systems integrators, where they contribute to the design, implementation, and optimisation of advanced technologies. Additionally, graduates may explore avenues in research and development, innovation, or consultancy, driving forward advancements in automation and enhancing operational efficiencies across industries.
On successful completion of the Pearson BTEC Level 4 Higher National Certificate (HNC), students can develop their careers in the engineering sector through:
- Entering employment
- Continuing existing employment
- Linking with the appropriate Professional Bodies
- Linking with the appropriate vendor accredited certificates [if appropriate]
- Committing to Continuing Professional Development (CPD)
The Pearson BTEC Level 4 Higher National Certificate (HNC) further provides a solid academic foundation in engineering, which students can build on should they decide to continue their studies beyond the Certificate stage. Following level 4 HNC, the Pearson BTEC Level 5 Higher National Diploma further allows students to specialise by committing to specific career paths and progression routes to degree-level study (level 6 onwards).
Found where you fit?
Our partnerships
Entry requirements
Don’t have the standard qualifications? You may still be able to apply.
32UCAS points
You will normally be required to have achieved a BTEC National Certificate/Diploma, A- Level or NVQ/VRQ level 3 qualification in a relevant subject area.
"All applicants for Higher Technical Qualifications must be aged 18 at the time of enrolment.
Students aged under 21 must achieve a minimum of 32 UCAS points from their level 3 qualification to meet entry criteria for this programme. We can support applicants in establishing what UCAS points they have.
Taken a different path?
We are, however, committed to creating educational opportunities for people from a variety of backgrounds, circumstances and demographics. If you have been out of formal education for some time, and/or you feel you do not have the pre-requisite qualifications stated, we may still be able to consider your application, particularly where you have relevant industry experience.
Each application will be reviewed on an individual basis with appropriate advice and guidance provided.
Fees and funding
£3,585
a year for UK students
Financial support
UK students can take out a tuition fee loan to cover the cost of their course and a maintenance loan to cover living costs.
We also have a range of other financial support available.
Additional costs
Your tuition fees cover most costs associated with your course (including registration, tuition, and assessment).
There may be some extra costs that you might need to make or, choose to pay. For example:
- Books/texts - You will have access to texts from your unit reading lists in our Learning Resource Centres as well as Pearson’s dedicated HN Global platform but, you may wish to buy your own copies for personal use.
- Printing and photocopying
- Trips and enhancement opportunities.
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.
Quick reference for careers advisers
Level
Level 4
Duration
2 years
Study mode
Part-time
Awarding body
Pearson