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HNC in Operations Engineering (Pearson)

The Pearson BTEC Level 4 HNC Operations 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 within operations engineering, such as an engineering technician, operations engineering technician, engineering manufacturing technician, technician (operations), integration and test technician, or assistant project manager.

If you are interested in a career in operations 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. You are in control of your course duration, therefore you can speed it up and slow it down to suit your needs.

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

Minimum Course Duration - 12 months

Maximum Course Duration - 3 years

Average Course Duration - Learners on an HNC should expect to spend a minimum of 9 months on their course

Earliest Claim - 9 months

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

Learners on a 1 year registration usually take at least 8 months to complete the HNC

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 (or one in the future upon request).

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

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

You will have access to our high quality team of tutors throughout your time with UniCourse, via our HelpDesk function on Totara.

Assessment

There are no exams, all assessments will be based on coursework assignments that you submit to us, in your own time, within your chosen registration period.

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.

Colleges/Learning Providers

Are you looking to purchase any of the high quality teaching resources our expert team has produced? Click here to find out more.

Payments

Please go the Finance and Fees section above to see monthly payments.

For this course you can choose to pay upfront, see below for terms;

£3295 for 1 Year.
£3595 for 2 Years.
£3895 for 3 Years.

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

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Module Details - How Will It Work?

To achieve the HNC in Operations Engineering you need to complete 8 units in total. This includes 4 mandatory core units, and 4 optional 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.

U4002 Engineering Mathematics

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

U4003 Engineering Science I

Engineering is a discipline that uses scientific theory to design, develop, or maintain structures, machines, systems, and processes. Engineers are therefore required to have a broad knowledge of the science that is applicable to the industry around them.

This unit introduces learners to the fundamental laws and applications of the physical sciences within engineering and how to apply this knowledge to find solutions to a variety of engineering problems. Among the topics included in this unit are: international system of units, interpreting data, static and dynamic fundamentals, fluid mechanics and thermodynamics, material properties and failure, A.C./D.C. circuit theories, and electromagnetic principles and properties.

On successful completion of this unit, learners will be able to interpret and present qualitative and quantitative data using computer software, calculate unknown parameters within mechanical and electrical systems, explain a variety of material properties, and use electromagnetic theory in an applied context.

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.

Sample Workbook 1

Sample Workbook 2

Sample Workbook 3

Sample Workbook 4

Core Unit Group 1 or 2

Choose both units from Core Unit Group 1 or Core Unit Group 2. You cannot choose one from each.

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

U4004 Managing a Professional Engineering 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

Core Unit Group 1 or 2

Choose both units from Core Unit Group 1 or Core Unit Group 2. You cannot choose one from each.

U4062 Professional Engineering Practice

The work of the engineer is key to the development and progress of our society. The decisions they make in the course of their everyday work can be life-changing in positive ways or, if poorly made, can be life-threatening. Accordingly, the engineer must work to strict codes of professionalism in all aspects of their work.

This unit outlines the background to the legislation, professional codes of practice and operational competencies that underpin the development of the professional engineer. It also considers the roles of problem-solving, communication, team working and professional responsibility.

Elements of personal and professional development, reflective thinking, career planning and leadership are considered as well. The increasing necessity for a holistic approach to sustainability in design, manufacture, and reuse and recycling are emphasised.

On successful completion of this unit, the student will be well prepared for further study at levels 5 and 6, working towards membership of an appropriate professional institution at Incorporated Engineer level.

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.

U4063 Engineering Mechanics and Materials

Finally, the service life performance of these materials is studied through calculations that measure their performance in static and dynamic applications, building on the work started in the associated level 4 unit, Engineering Science.

On successful completion of this unit, learners will be able to identify the underlying structural properties of engineering materials and how these properties relate to their application and performance. They will also be confident in completing calculations relating to the static performance of these materials when in service.

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.

U4018 Maintenance Engineering

Plant and equipment are one of the biggest assets for any business, costing huge sums of money to replace when things go wrong. Without regular maintenance business owners could see an increase in costly breakdowns, often incurring downtime and significant loss of earnings. Inspection and maintenance are therefore vital to detect and prevent any potential equipment issues or faults that would prevent operation at optimum efficiency. Good maintenance proves itself on a day-to-day basis. This unit introduces learners to the importance of equipment maintenance programmes, the benefits that well-maintained equipment brings to an organisation and the risk factors it faces if maintenance programmes and processes are not considered or implemented. Topics included in this unit are: statutory regulations, organisational safety requirements, maintenance strategies, safe working and maintenance techniques. On successful completion of this unit learners will be able to learn about the importance of compliance with statutory regulations associated with asset maintenance, maintenance techniques adopted by the industry, safe working practices whilst performing maintenance tasks in an industrial environment and inspection and maintenance techniques.

U4024 Electro Pneumatic and Hydraulic Systems

Hydraulics and pneumatics incorporate the importance of fluid power theory in modern industry. This is the technology that deals with the generation, control, and movement of mechanical elements or systems with the use of pressurised fluids in a confined system. In respect of hydraulics and pneumatics, both liquids and gases are considered fluids. Oil hydraulics employs pressurised liquid petroleum oils and synthetic oils, whilst pneumatic systems employ an everyday recognisable process of releasing compressed air to the atmosphere after performing the work.

The aim of this module is to develop learners’ knowledge and appreciation of the applications of fluid power systems in modern industry. Students will investigate and design pneumatic, hydraulic, electro-pneumatic and electro-hydraulic systems. This unit offers the opportunity for learners to examine the characteristics of fluid power components and evaluate work-related practices and applications of these systems.

On successful completion of this unit learners will be able to learn about applications of hydraulic and pneumatic systems in the production industry, fundamental principles and practical techniques for obtaining solutions to problems, real-life applications of pneumatic and hydraulic systems, and the importance of structured maintenance techniques.

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

U4025 Operations and Plant Management

The challenges of modern manufacturing industries require today’s operations engineers to adopt a multi-skilled methodology when dealing with the array of complex engineering problems they are faced with. Long gone are the days of ‘pure’ mechanical or electrical maintenance staff; operations engineers may well specialise within one discipline, but they must have the knowledge and ability to safely tackle problems that could encompass many varied engineering fields if they are to keep the wheels of industry in motion.

The underlying aims of this unit are to develop the learners’ knowledge of the engineering fundamentals that augment the design and operation of plant engineering systems, and to furnish them with the tools and techniques to maintain the ever more technological equipment.

The learners are introduced to the concept of thermodynamic systems and their properties in the first learning outcome; this will provide a platform for the topic of heat transfer in industrial applications (as covered in learning outcome four) and underpin their future studies in subsequent units. The second learning outcome examines common mechanical power transmission system elements found in numerous production/manufacturing environments, whilst the third learning outcome investigates fundamental static and dynamic fluid systems.

On completion of this unit learners will be able to learn about the fundaments that underpin the operation of the systems they deal with on a daily basis and apply these fundamentals to the successful maintenance of the 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

U4026 Electrical Systems and Fault Finding

Electrical systems can be found in a very wide range of locations such as in manufacturing facilities, airports, transport systems, shopping centres, hotels and hospitals; people will come across them every day in their workplace and at home. The system must take the electrical supply from the national grid, convert it to a suitable voltage and then distribute it safely to the various system components and uses such as electric motors, lighting circuits and environmental controls.

This unit introduces learners to the characteristics and operational parameters of a range of electrical system components that are used in a variety of applications; and how to fault find when they go wrong.

On successful completion of this unit learners will be able to follow electrical system circuit diagrams, understand the operation of the various components that make up the system and select the most suitable fault-finding technique. Therefore, learners will develop skills such as critical thinking, analysis, reasoning, interpretation, decision making, information literacy, information and communication technology literacy, innovation, creativity, collaboration, and adaptability, which are crucial skills for gaining employment and developing academic competence for higher education progression.

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

U4027 CAD for Schematics in Maintenance Engineering

There is a growing trend, in part due to the popularity of three-dimensional (3D) Computer Aided Design (CAD) systems, for learners to generate two-dimensional (2D) drawings from three-dimensional (3D) solid models. 3D models do look impressive and whilst they clearly serve an important function in CAD design, in reality the vast majority of CAD drawings used in the industry are 2D based and, of those, a significant number are schematic drawings utilised by maintenance engineers, which cannot be produced using a 3D system. The aim of this unit is to enable learners to produce 2D CAD drawings (using industry standard CAD software), and to modify and construct electrical and mechanical drawings e.g., distribution systems, fire alarms, steam ranges, electrical and hydraulic circuits. This unit will support the development of the learners’ CAD abilities and build upon those skills to introduce the more advanced techniques that are used to create and modify schematic drawings quickly and efficiently. These techniques can be used to construct pre-prepared symbols for use in circuit diagrams or be used to create unique symbols and symbol libraries. Alongside the creation of schematic drawings utilising the block, attributes and insert commands, the learners will also learn how to extract information to populate spreadsheets and databases, tabulating the information directly from the working drawing.

U4061 Programming for Engineers

With the increasing programmability of devices, it is essential that engineers can define and develop software artefacts. Engineers are often involved in developing programs for a wide variety of projects, such as creating firmware, automating robots and machines, modelling conceptual designs, processing data, and developing machine-learning models. By acquiring programming competencies, engineers can meet these challenges, reap the benefits of customised designs, and develop solutions to solve future engineering problems, thus enhancing their career prospects.

This unit provides engineering learners with a comprehensive introduction to programming. Students will be able to investigate different software development platforms, programming paradigms, programming languages (e.g. Python, C or C++), and their engineering applications. They will gain the experience of going through a standard development process; from setting requirements through to design, implementation, testing and maintenance. The unit also covers program design, structure, and syntax through project activities. Students will be assessed on
creating programs that are efficient, functional, reliable, and maintainable.

On completion of this unit, learners will have acquired essential knowledge and skills in programming using a popular language that can be utilised in Level 5 units such as Machine Learning and Embedded 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

Entry Requirements - How Do I Apply?

A pre-requisite to gaining entry onto the HNC is to have a level 3 qualification in engineering. If you don’t have this, you may enter the HNC by having work experience in the engineering industry and passing our entry quizzes. 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

How many points do I require?

The usual entry requirements for this course are a minimum of 64 UCAS points obtained from level 3 qualifications.

Examples of this includes:

1. AS/A2 A-levels in Maths and another relevant subject such as Science, at a minimum grade of C.

2. Extended/90 Credit Diploma in Engineering

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.

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

At UniCourse we have a wide range of payment plans to support everyone, pick one of the below plans and start your journey.

If you would like to take advantage of the plan 1 payment option but it isn’t suitable to pay this all in one go, you have the option to pay at least 30% of this price upfront and then set up a monthly payment plan to pay the remaining balance (up to 15 months). Please state you would like to take advantage of this on your application form.

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 a HND or a university degree course. Once you’ve achieved this Level 4 HNC in Operations Engineering you can progress onto our level 5 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.

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 that can offer career progression.

 

If you are thinking about whether to apply for just an HNC or the full HND, you could save yourself up to £600 by buying our combined package.

 

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?

The HNC in Operations Engineering 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.

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 Operations 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. Operations Engineering Technician

3. Engineering Manufacturing Technician

4. Technician (Operations)

5. Integration and Test Technician

6. Assistant Project Manager

Further education opportunities

The Level 4 BTEC HNC in Operations 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 Operations Engineering

2. BEng (Hons) Operations Engineering

3. BEng (Hons) Operations Engineering and Management

4. BSc (Hons) Operations Engineering

5. MEng (Hons) Production and Operations Engineering

Will my chosen University accept this qualification?

The HNC in Operations 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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