Higher Level Apprenticeship in Cyber Security and Digital Forensics

Studying General Engineering at Level 4 offers a broad and versatile foundation in engineering principles, making it an excellent choice for those looking to enter the engineering field or advance their careers.  This program provides a comprehensive understanding of various engineering disciplines, with a slant towards manufacturing automation.  It equips students with practical skills and theoretical knowledge that are highly valued by employers, enhancing employability and opening up diverse career opportunities.  Additionally, it serves as a stepping stone for further education, such as progressing to a Level 5 HND or a bachelor’s degree in Engineering.  

General Entry Requirements

The general entry requirements below identify the minimum qualifications needed to apply for the programme.  Other qualifications will be considered on an individual basis on application.  You are required to upload a copy of your qualification certificates to show how you meet the entry requirements for the programme prior to enrolment.  Applications will also require successful completion of the admissions process.

GCSE/ Level 2 Requirements  

• GCSE grade C/4 in English Language, or Level 2 Certificate in Essential Skills Communication, or equivalent in an approved alternative qualification.

AND

• GCSE grade C/4 in Mathematics, or equivalent in an approved alternative qualification.

AND  

• 2 at GCSE level (grades A*-C*/9-4), or equivalent in an approved alternative qualification.

Course Entry Requirements

UCAS 

A minimum of 48 UCAS Tariff points including:  

• GCE A level (A2): Typical grade profile DD

OR  

• [RQF] Pearson BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma with overall award profile PPP  

OR  

• Access to HE Diploma (NI): 45% overall   

OR  

• An equivalent in an approved alternative qualification

Accreditation of Prior Learning   

Alternatively, you can provide evidence of your ability to undertake the programme by meeting the requirements for the Accreditation of Prior Learning (APL) process, either through Accredited Prior Certificated Learning (APCL) or Accredited Prior Experiential Learning (APEL).   Further details on APL can be found in the HE Admissions Process section of our website and the HE Accreditation of Prior Learning SOP.

International Students English Language Requirements  

International applicants, from Non-Native English speaking countries, must have evidence of English Language Level B2 on the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages:  

• IELTS 6.0 (Academic) (minimum of 5.5 in all skills)   
• PTE Academic 51 (minimum of 46 in each part)  
• Or equivalent UKVI-approved English Language Test  

For further information please contact our International Department at international@serc.ac.uk  

Higher Level Apprenticeship Eligibility

To be eligible for a Higher Level Apprenticeship (HLA), in addition to the entry requirements identified above, you need to:

• be employed or be about to take up permanent paid employment as an apprentice, or be an existing employee moving to a new job role, allowing you to gain appropriate industrial experience, with a Northern Ireland based company (does not include public sector) who is willing to support you as an HLA candidate
• work a minimum of 21 hours per week (which includes time for ‘off-the-job’ training)
• be the minimum school leaving age in Northern Ireland
  

Successful completion of this course could lead to either a career in the computing industry or to related degree programmes.  SERC offer a 1 year degree top-up for this programme.

Level 5 HND Top Up Programme Students that wish to further their studies may undertake a Level 5 HND Engineering qualification at SERC.

Related Degree Programmes Students that wish to further their studies may undertake a related Level 6 qualification, at a university.

Employment  This Higher National programme has been designed to equip students with the knowledge required to thrive in the changing world of work.

A Level 4 HN in General Engineering can open doors to various career opportunities, including roles such as:

Engineering Technician: Working on the design, development, and maintenance of engineering systems Quality Technician: Ensuring products meet quality standards and managing quality control processes

Maintenance Technician: Overseeing maintenance operations and ensuring machinery and equipment are in optimal working condition.

Manufacturing Technician: Involved in the production process, ensuring efficient and effective manufacturing operations.

These roles leverage the technical skills and knowledge gained from the HNC program, providing a solid foundation for a successful engineering career.

This course will equip you with formal qualifications which will improve your job opportunities and employability skills in the engineering sector. 

You will also gain a range of soft skills regarded as highly desirable by employers and you will receive training on a wide range of industry standard equipment and software.

Technical Skills

• CAD skills (likely Solidworks)
• Practical skills (Digital circuits, PLCs, Mechatronics)
• Design Tools and Techniques
• Project Management Skills

Employability Skills

• Critical Thinking
• Emotional Intelligence
• Entrepreneurship
• Leadership
• Reflective Practice
• Decision Making
• Team Working