The Level 4 Higher National Certificate in Engineering offers students a broad introduction to the subject area via a mandatory core of learning, while allowing for the acquisition of some sector-specific skills and experience through the specialist units in each pathway, with the opportunity to pursue a particular interest through the appropriate selection of optional units. This effectively builds underpinning core skills while preparing the student for more intense subject specialisation at Level 5. Students will gain a wide range of sector knowledge tied to practical skills gained in research, self-study, directed study, and workplace activities.
At Level 4 students develop a broad knowledge and awareness of key aspects of the engineering sector through four core units for each pathway, including one unit assessed by a Pearson-set assignment. The core units are:
- Unit 1: Engineering Design
- Unit 2: Engineering Mathematics
- Unit 3: Engineering Science
- Unit 4: Managing a Professional Engineering Project
For the Manufacturing Engineering pathway, students take the four mandatory core units, two specialist units, and an additional four optional units.
- Unit 8 Mechanical Principles. L4.
- Unit 9 Materials properties & Testing. L4.
- Unit 14 Production engineering for manufacturing. (S) L4.
- Unit 17 Quality and process improvement. (S) L4.
- Unit 39 Further Mathematics. L5.
- Unit 50 Advanced Manufacturing Technology. L5.
For the Electrical and Electronic Engineering pathway, students take the four mandatory core units, one specialist unit, five additional optional units. These consist of:
- Unit 19 Electrical and Electronic Principles. (S). L4.
- Unit 20 Digital Principles. L4.
- Unit 22 Electrical circuits and devices. L4.
- Unit 31 Electrical Systems & Fault Finding. L4.
- Unit 39 Further Mathematics. L5.
- Unit 52 Further Electrical & Electronic Principles. L5.
- Key – L4 = Level 4, L5 = Level 5.
(S) = Specialist Mandatory.
Learners successfully completing the Higher National Certificate will be able to demonstrate a sound knowledge of the basic concepts of engineering. They will be able to communicate accurately and appropriately, and they will have the qualities of personal responsibility needed to enhance their employment. They will have developed a range of transferable skills to ensure effective team working, independent working with growing fault-finding and problem-solving strategies, and organisational awareness.
They will be adaptable and flexible in their approach to work, showing resilience under pressure and the ability to meet challenging targets within a reasonable, pre-set, timeframe. They will also demonstrate regard for the ethical responsibilities of the engineer, for cost, and for the importance of protecting and sustaining the environment.
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