HNC in Mechanical Engineering (Pearson)

The Pearson BTEC Level 4 HNC Mechanical Engineering online distance learning course provides you with a specialist work-related programme of learning that covers all the key knowledge, understanding, and practical skills required to work and progress in roles with a mechanical engineering bias, such as a mechanics technician, engineering technician, mechanical engineering technician, integration and test technician, assistant project manager or engineering manufacturing technician.

If you are interested in a career in mechanical engineering, are looking to progress further in your engineering career, and/or want to progress onto an HND or full Honours degree, this is the ideal course for you.

Earn your BTEC Level 4 HNC from home with our flexible distance learning course. Fit learning around your work and personal commitments, and access everything you need at any time of day. Learn at your own pace and submit your assignments when you are ready, one at a time. With an adaptable structure, you can accelerate your studies if you have the time to commit more intensively, or slow down when needed. The key is to create a study schedule that works for you.

Once completed, you will be awarded a Pearson BTEC Level 4 Higher National Certificate in Mechanical Engineering.

If your ambition is to go up to HND Level 5 and beyond, you will make significant savings by instead purchasing the HNC+HND combined course, otherwise known as the full HND. Read more on this here.

Basic Information

Awarding Body - Pearson

Assessment Type - 100% assignment-based

Enrolment Dates - Apply any day. Enrolments take place on the first working day of each month

Registration Period

You can select your HNC registration period from 1-3 years to best suit your circumstances.

Which registration period is best for me?

We advise all learners to consider how much time they can commit to their course before selecting their registration period.

Here are the recommended registration periods based on how long you would aim to spend on each unit:

6 weeks per unit = 1 year registration period
3 months per unit = 2 year registration period
4.5 months per unit = 3 year registration period

You could save up to £1,105 by opting for the 1 year registration period

Enrolment

You may apply, enrol and then make payment for your course on any day of the year. Once you do, you will be set up onto our online learning environment Totara and given your induction materials. Your registration period timer will not officially begin until the following first working day of the month, unless you add on Bridging Maths, in which case you will be given additional time (a minimum of 1 month + the remaining time to the next first working day of the month).

Learning Resources

All resources can be accessed at any time online through our online learning portal, allowing you to go through your modules as and when you like. You will benefit from comprehensive workbooks and detailed pre-recorded videos that you can access and replay whenever.

Fees

To view our course fees please click on the 'Finance and Fees' tab. If you are on a mobile, click on 'Overview' and change the page view to 'Finance and Fees on the dropdown menu.

Professional Collaboration

This course is newly ‘quality marked’ as a Higher Technical Qualification (HTQ) by the Institute for Apprenticeships and Technical Education (IfATE). In addition, The HNC is a nationally recognised work-related qualification – developed in collaboration with some of the top engineering employers across the UK, such as ALSTOM, BMW, Jaguar Land Rover, Siemens, Railtrack, and The Engineering Council - for learners who are taking their first steps into employment or those already in employment and seeking career development.

In developing this course, Pearson has also liaised with:

● The Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET)
● Institution of Mechanical Engineers (IMechE)
● Royal Aeronautical Society (RAeS).

By aligning to professional body competency standards, content and assessment supports learners to develop as professional practitioners for the future. This adds value for learners by offering them access to continuing professional development.

Tutor support during your HNC

Our expert subject specialists are available to guide you through your learning journey. You can schedule a telephone call or video session with a tutor using our booking system by contacting our HQ. Our video sessions take place via Microsoft Teams and may be recorded, allowing you to review your live session whenever needed. Additionally, our virtual learning platform features a helpdesk, where you can get answers to any questions you may have.

Assessment

There are no exams. All assessments will be based on coursework assignments that you submit to us, in your own time whilst being mindful of the registration period you have opted for.

Enhanced Learning Credits

If you have served or currently serve in the British Armed Forces, you may be eligible to use Enhanced Learning Credits (ELCs) to fund your studies. To read more about eligibility and how to kick-start the process, please click here.

Register for Individual Units

If you do not wish to commit to doing the full qualification initially, or you are just looking to study specific subjects and not do the full HNC, you can register for between 1-4 HNC Level 4 units with Pearson's accredited HN Flex programme. After completion, you will receive a Certificate of Unit Completion, and can use the credits towards an HNC or HND in the future if you wish.

Step 1

Request an information pack or submit an application form, with the option to have one of our course advisors telephone you to discuss your interest or application further

Step 2

Once you have applied, you will receive an email with our decision within one working day, and we will telephone you to discuss your application if requested

Step 3

Once you have submitted your enrolment form, necessary documentation, and payment, you will receive your login credentials and welcome email

“

"You are provided with all the resources you need and the support is fantastic. I would recommend UniCourse to anyone looking for distance learning at their own pace."

„

John Smith

HNC Student

Module Details - How Will It Work?

To achieve the HNC in Mechanical Engineering you need to complete eight units in total. This includes 3 mandatory core units and 5 mandatory specialist units. This offers learners a broad introduction to in these specialist areas, which can help prepare you for subject specialisation at Level 5. As you conduct further research into the HNC, it is strongly recommended that you take a look below at the units you will need to study. By clicking on the unit title, you will be redirected to the official Pearson BTEC unit specification, and below many of the units, you will see samples from our course workbooks.

U4001 Engineering Design

The tremendous possibilities of the techniques and processes developed by engineers can only be realised by great design. Design turns an idea into a useful artefact, the problem into a solution, or something ugly and inefficient into an elegant, desirable, and cost-effective everyday object. Without a sound understanding of the design process, the engineer works in isolation without the links between theory and the needs of the end user.

The aim of this unit is to introduce learners to the methodical steps that engineers use in creating functional products and processes as an individual or part of a design team; from a design brief to the work, and the stages involved in identifying and justifying a solution to a given engineering need. Among the topics included in this unit are: Gantt charts and critical path analysis, stakeholder requirements, market analysis, design process management, technical drawing, modelling and prototyping, manufacturability, sustainability and environmental impact, reliability, safety and risk analyses, and ergonomics.

On successful completion of this unit, learners will be able to prepare an engineering design specification that satisfies stakeholders’ requirements, implement best practices when analysing and evaluating possible design solutions, prepare a written technical design report, and present their finalised design to a customer or audience.

If you only want to study this unit or up to four units for Continuous Professional Development purposes, you can do this with Pearson's accredited programme HN Flex.

Click here to find out more

Sample Workbook 1

U4002 Engineering Maths

The mathematics that is delivered in this unit is directly applicable to the engineering and manufacturing industry, and it will help to increase learners’ knowledge of the broad underlying principles within this discipline.

The aim of this unit is to develop learners’ skills in the mathematical principles and theories that underpin the engineering curriculum. Students will be introduced to mathematical methods and statistical techniques in order to analyse and solve problems within an engineering and manufacturing context.

On successful completion of this unit, learners will be able to employ mathematical methods within a variety of contextualised examples, interpret data using statistical techniques, and use analytical and computational methods to evaluate and solve engineering and manufacturing sector problems.

If you only want to study this unit or up to four units for Continuous Professional Development purposes, you can do this with Pearson's accredited programme HN Flex.

Click here to find out more

Sample Workbook 1

Sample Workbook 2

Sample Workbook 3

Sample Workbook 4

U4004 Managing a Professional Engineering Project

The responsibilities of the engineer go far beyond completing the task in hand. Reflecting on their role in a wider ethical, environmental, and sustainability context starts the process of becoming a professional engineer – a vital requirement for career progression.

Engineers seldom work in isolation and most tasks they undertake require a range of expertise, designing, developing, manufacturing, constructing, operating, and maintaining the physical infrastructure and content of our world. The bringing together of these skills, expertise, and experience is often managed through the creation of a project.

This unit introduces learners to the techniques and best practices required to successfully create and manage an engineering/manufacturing project designed to identify a solution to an engineering need. While carrying out this project learners will consider the role and function of engineering in our society, the professional duties and responsibilities expected of engineers together with the behaviours that accompany their actions.

Among the topics covered in this unit are: roles, responsibilities, and behaviours of a professional engineer, planning a project, project management stages, devising solutions, theories and calculations, management using a Gantt chart, evaluation techniques, communication skills, and the creation and presentation of a project report.

On successful completion of this unit, learners will be able to conceive, plan, develop, and execute a successful engineering project, and produce and present a project report outlining and reflecting on the outcomes of each of the project processes and stages. As a result, they will develop skills such as critical thinking, analysis, reasoning, interpretation, decision-making, information literacy, and information and communication technology, and skills in professional and confident self-presentation.

If you only want to study this unit or up to four units for Continuous Professional Development purposes, you can do this with Pearson's accredited programme HN Flex.

Click here to find out more

Sample Workbook 1

U4008 Mechanical Principles

Mechanical principles have been crucial for engineers to convert the energy produced by burning oil and gas into systems to propel, steer and stop our automobiles, aircraft, and ships, amongst thousands of other applications. The knowledge and application of these mechanical principles is still the essential underpinning science of all machines in use today or being developed into the latest technology.

The aim of this unit is to introduce learners to the essential mechanical principles associated with engineering applications. Topics included in this unit are: behavioural characteristics of static, dynamic and oscillating engineering systems including shear forces, bending moments, torsion, linear and angular acceleration, conservation of energy and vibrating systems; and the
movement and transfer of energy by considering parameters of mechanical power transmission systems.

On successful completion of this unit learners will be able to learn about the underlying principles, requirements, and limitations of mechanical systems.

If you only want to study this unit or up to four units for Continuous Professional Development purposes, you can do this with Pearson's accredited programme HN Flex.

Click here to find out more

Sample Workbook 1

Sample Workbook 2

Sample Workbook 3

Sample Workbook 4

U4011 Fluid Mechanics

Fluid mechanics is an important subject to scientists and engineers of many disciplines, not just those working directly with fluid systems. Mechanical engineers need to understand the principles of hydraulic devices and turbines (wind and water); aeronautical engineers use these concepts to understand flight and design flying machines, while civil engineers typically concentrate on water supply, sewerage, and irrigation.

This unit introduces learners to the fluid mechanics principles and techniques used in mechanical engineering. In particular, the hydraulic devices and systems that incorporate the transmission of hydraulic pressure and forces exerted by a static fluid on immersed surfaces. Topics included in this unit are: pressure and force, submerged surfaces, fluid flow theory, aerodynamics, and hydraulic machinery.

On successful completion of this unit learners will be able to learn about the concept and measurement of viscosity in fluids, and the characteristics of Newtonian and non-Newtonian fluids; fluid flow phenomena, including energy conservation, estimation of head loss in pipes and viscous drag; and the operational characteristics of hydraulic machines, in particular the operating principles of various water turbines and pumps.

If you only want to study this unit or up to four units for Continuous Professional Development purposes, you can do this with Pearson's accredited programme HN Flex.

Click here to find out more

Sample Workbook 1

Sample Workbook 2

Sample Workbook 3

Sample Workbook 4

U4013 Fundamentals of Thermodynamics and Heat Engines

Thermodynamics is one of the most common applications of science in our lives, and it is so much a part of our daily life that it is often taken for granted. For example, when driving your car, the chemical energy from the fuel or electrical energy from the batteries are converted into mechanical energy to propel the vehicle, and the heat produced by burning gas when cooking will produce steam which can lift the lid of the pan. These are examples of thermodynamics, which is the study of the dynamics and behaviour of energy and its manifestations.

This unit introduces learners to the principles and concepts of thermodynamics and its application in modern engineering.

On successful completion of this unit learners will be able to learn about fundamental thermodynamic systems and their properties, the steady flow energy equation to plant equipment, principles of heat transfer to industrial applications, and the performance of internal combustion engines.

If you only want to study this unit or up to four units for Continuous Professional Development purposes, you can do this with Pearson's accredited programme HN Flex.

Click here to find out more

Sample Workbook 1

Sample Workbook 2

Sample Workbook 3

Sample Workbook 4

U4014 Production Engineering for Manufacture

All of the manufactured products we use in our daily lives, from processed food to clothing and cars, are the result of production engineering. Production engineers need to have a comprehensive knowledge and understanding of all the possible production technologies available, their advantages and disadvantages, the requirements of the production system operation and the interaction between the various components of the production system.

This unit introduces learners to the production process for key material types; the various types of machinery used to manufacture products and the different ways of organising production systems to optimise the production process; consideration of how to measure the effectiveness of a production system within the overall context of the manufacturing system; and an examination of how production engineering contributes to ensuring safe and reliable operation of manufacturing.

On successful completion of this unit learners will be able to learn about the role and purpose of production engineering and its relationship with the other elements of a manufacturing system; most appropriate production processes and associated facility arrangements for manufacturing products of different material types; and designing a production system incorporating a number of different production processes.

If you only want to study this unit or up to four units for Continuous Professional Development purposes, you can do this with Pearson's accredited programme HN Flex.

Click here to find out more

Sample Workbook 1

Sample Workbook 2

Sample Workbook 3

Sample Workbook 4

U4017 Quality and Process Improvement

Quality has always been the key to business success and survivability, but it requires organisations to allocate a lot of effort and resources to achieve it. The key to providing quality services and designing top quality products lies in the strength and effectiveness of the processes used in their development; processes which must be constantly reviewed to ensure they operate as efficiently, economically and as safely as possible.

This unit introduces learners to the importance of quality assurance processes in a
manufacturing or service environment and the principles and theories that underpin them. Topics included in this unit are: tools and techniques used to support quality control, attributes and variables, testing processes, costing modules, the importance of qualifying the costs related to quality, international standards for management (ISO 9000, 14000, 18000), European Foundation for Quality Management (EFQM), principles, tools and techniques of Total Quality Management (TQM) and implementation of Six Sigma.

On successful completion of this unit learners will be able to illustrate the processes and applications of statistical process, explain the quality control tools used to apply costing techniques, identify the standards expected in the engineering environment to improve efficiency and examine how the concept of Total Quality Management and continuous improvement underpins modern manufacturing and service environments.

If you only want to study this unit or up to four units for Continuous Professional Development purposes, you can do this with Pearson's accredited programme HN Flex.

Click here to find out more

Sample Workbook 1

Sample Workbook 2

Sample Workbook 3

Entry Requirements - How Do I Apply?

A pre-requisite to gaining entry onto the HNC is to have a relevant level 3 qualification in engineering OR relevant work experience in the engineering. Our admissions team may decide to send you entry quizzes to help determine suitability if they feel that you may struggle at level 4. For those who have not studied up to level 3 in Maths, it is strongly recommended that you consider adding on the Bridging Maths course, before commencing the first HNC unit - Engineering Maths. Please contact our admissions team, who will be able to tell you if you meet the entry requirements and provide advice on what you will need to enrol on this course.

We may contact you to request further information before we can advise whether your application is successful. This is to ensure that you meet the entry requirements for the course. Where appropriate, learners may be required to complete a bridging course(s) before gaining entry onto an HNC/D.

Age requirement: the minimum age requirement for this course is 18.

Apply Now

Can I be accepted with experience?

Yes. If you do not possess the relevant qualifications but have experience in the engineering sector, you can also be accepted onto the course. We consider each application on an individual basis.

Relevant experience includes:

1. Those who already work in the engineering sector and have obtained relevant skills.

2. Those who have obtained relevant skills through voluntary work.

Can I be accepted from overseas?

Unfortunately, no. Pearson courses are available to UK residents only.

English isn't my native language, do I need to complete an English exam?

As a student, you must be able to demonstrate your capability in English at the required standard, so that you can make best use of study materials, understand each unit in detail and communicate effectively with your tutor. If English is not your native language, you must complete an English proficiency exam before enrolling.

Accepted tests include:

1. Common European Framework of Reference (CEFR) B2

2. IELTS 5.5 (including 5.5 for reading and writing)

3. PTE Academic 51 or equivalent (e.g. centre-devised test)

Level Of Education

All learners must have Maths and English at GCSE grade C/4, or a Level 2 equivalent.

A-Levels in Maths and another relevant subject such as Science or Engineering, at a minimum grade of C, or an equivalent Level 3 qualification in a relevant subject.

If you do not possess any formal academic qualifications at level 3, the appropriate experience of working in the engineering industry will be accepted in lieu. However, you should be able to demonstrate appropriate knowledge and competence at level 3 in mathematics and science.

For applicants without such qualifications, or where refresher courses would be beneficial, we offer level 3 bridging courses to fill those knowledge gaps. We can provide guidance on your individual needs during the application process.

For individual guidance on how your work experience will impact your course application, email us at admissions@unicourse.org.

Payment Plans

As well as the plans you can see below, we offer you the opportunity to make a 30% downpayment, followed by monthly instalments to pay off the remaining balance, interest free. For 1 year programmes, the remaining balance can be paid off over a maximum of 10 monthly payments, and for 2 or 3 year programmes it extends to 15 months.

Please note: you are required to enrol before purchasing your course.

Step 1: Submit your application form. You will receive an email with our decision within one working day.

Step 2: Once your application is approved (subject to eligibility) you will receive confirmation of this via email, along with instruction to submit an enrolment form.

Step 3: Once you have completed both forms, you can then purchase your course.

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Progression - What Can I Do After My Course?

This course provides learners with a straight path to employment or progression onto an HND or a university degree course. Once you’ve achieved this Level 4 HNC in Mechanical Engineering you can progress onto our level 5 Top up HND or even the second year of a BSc (Hons) full university degree. Many campus-based universities will accept this qualification as an entry requirement to year two of their degree programmes.

Alternatively, you could enrol onto a full HND (HNC level 4 + HND level 5), thus making significant savings and then being eligible to enter onto the final year of many degree programmes, including Open University’s top-up engineering degree.

This qualification is approved by the Engineering Council as contributing to the requirements for professional registration as an Engineering Technician. Completing this course can help you on your way to achieving your career goals. For those already in employment, it is a nationally recognised qualification, led and shaped by top employers within the industry.

 

Careers Hub

UniCourse now offer a comprehensive Careers Hub service for all our learners, which comes included in the package.

You can have one of our specialists take a look at your CV, cover letter, or personal statement, and provide you with extensive feedback on how to make improvements, to make the best impression possible.

Also, you will be offered the chance to talk through your options once you are finished or about to finish your course with one of our specialist careers advisors, who will recommend certain actions and point you in the direction of possible ways to keep you progressing in the direction you wish to go.

Opportunities After Unicourse

What can I do after my course?

This course builds up core skills whilst preparing you for further subject specialisation if learners wish to progress onto a level 5 HND or onto the second year of a full Honours degree course. It prepares and equips those taking their first steps into employment in the engineering sector, with the relevant knowledge needed to succeed. It can also help those already employed in the engineering sector to further their skills to progress in their careers, specialise in certain areas, and gain promotions.

1. Progression into the engineering sector

2. Improve current skills

3. Gain promotion opportunities

More workplace opportunities

The skills you learn as part of the HNC in Mechanical Engineering can provide you with the opportunity to take your first steps into employment in the engineering sector or can help those already in employment to progress further in their careers and gain promotions.

Some of the job roles this qualification can lead to include:

1. Engineering Technician

2. Mechanical Engineering Technician

3. Engineering Manufacturing Technician

4. Technician (Mechanical)

5. Technician Mechanics

6. Integration and Test Technician

7. Assistant Project Manager

Further education opportunities

The Level 4 BTEC HNC in Mechanical Engineering is recognised by many Higher Education providers – such as the Open University - as meeting admission requirements for progression onto many relevant workplace-related courses, including:

1. A Level 5 HND in Mechanical Engineering

2. Year two of a BSc Honours degree programme

Will my chosen University accept this qualification?

The HNC in Mechanical Engineering will allow you to apply for year 2 of a BSc (Hons) degree with the Open University. Many campus-based universities will also accept this qualification as an entry requirement to year two of their degree programmes.

Please check with the university you have in mind.

Pearson's Degree Finder Tool

Pearson's Degree Finder tool has been created for learners studying a Pearson BTEC Higher National qualification who are looking for progression options to university.

You can use this tool before, during or after completing your Pearson course to help you plan your next steps

The Degree Finder also features Pearson's Recognition Map where you can browse the institutions who have formally recognised that they will consider applications from Higher National learners.

Visit Pearson's Degree Finder

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