IMI Level 4 Certificate in Advanced Automotive Studies

This Level 4 vocational qualification which provides individuals with advanced levels of specialist technical knowledge, understanding and practical skills required to work as an advanced technician / engineer in the following automotive maintenance and repair sectors: Light Vehicle, Heavy Vehicle, alongside the development of wider transferable skills for use across the whole retail motor industry.


Academic Year: 2025/26
Course Code: 10221
Campus: Downpatrick, Lisburn, Newtownards
Study Type: Part-Time
Education Level Higher Education
Department: Motor Vehicle

Available Sessions

We have 2 sessions available for application on this course in Downpatrick, Lisburn.

Course Structure

Modules:

  • Advanced Internal Combustion Technology
  • Advanced Light Vehicle Driveline and Chassis Technology
  • Advanced Vehicle Body Electrics
  • Knowledge of providing technical support and advice
  • Knowledge in Conducting Diagnostic Consultations

Ideal if you wish to gain advanced levels of specialist technical knowledge, understanding and practical skills required to work as an advanced technician / engineer in the following automotive maintenance and repair sectors: Light Vehicle, Heavy Vehicle, alongside the development of wider transferable skills for use across the whole retail motor industry.

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.
  • GCSE grade C/4 in Mathematics, or Level 2 Certificate in Essential Skills- Application of Number, or equivalent in an approved alternative qualification.
  • Passes in 3 different subjects (can include English Language and Mathematics and as above) at GCSE level (grades A*-C*/9-4), or equivalent in an approved alternative qualification.

Course Entry Requirements

  • City and Guilds or IMI Level 3 Diploma in an industrially relevant qualification

Or

  • City and Guilds or IMI Level 3 VCQ (NVQ) in an industrially relevant qualification

Or

  • IMI Accreditation Light Vehicle Diagnostic Technician

Or

  • An equivalent in an approved alternative qualification

Or

  • Demonstrate 5 years’ experience working in a diagnostic technician role

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

Students are assessed using a range of different methods. These include examinations, coursework, Project Based Learning, presentations, practical, posters, leaflets, role-play, and case studies.  This is dependent on the requirements of each unit of study.  Oral, written and online feedback will be provided during your course to help improve and monitor performance.

The course will help learners develop a wide range of skills including, but not limited to:

Technical Skills:

  • Advanced Internal Combustion Technology
  • Advanced Light Vehicle Driveline and Chassis Technology
  • Advanced Vehicle Body Electrics

Employability Skills:

  • Knowledge of providing technical support and advice
  • Knowledge in Conducting Diagnostic Consultations
  • Critical Thinking
  • Decision Making
  • Team Working

Students that successfully complete the Level 4 Certificate in Automotive Advanced Diagnostic Studies programmes traditionally progress to one of the following areas:

Related Degree Programmes

Students that wish to further their studies may undertake a related Level 5 qualification, IMIAL Level 5 Diploma in Automotive Management.

Employment

 

This will enable you to apply for jobs as a Light/Heavy Vehicle Master Technician, or simply improve your skills if you run your own business.

 

There are no additional costs associated with this programme

IMI Awards

Available Sessions

We have 2 sessions available for application on this course in Downpatrick, Lisburn.

Enquiries Information

For more information or help with this course send us an enquiry and a member of our team will get back in touch.

Available Sessions

Business Services Course

Funding may be available for this course, please contact us on BusinessServices@serc.ac.uk to discuss if you are eligible. Additional sessions may be available for this course throughout the year. Please contact us to discuss a start date that would be suitable for you.

Title Campus Spaces Fee Apply or get more information
IMI Level 4 Certificate in Advanced Automotive Studies
Y10221DD1A-25/26-PT
Downpatrick
20+ £2130.00
IMI Level 4 Certificate in Advanced Automotive Studies
Y10221LE1B-25/26-PT
Lisburn
20+ £415.00

Please select a campus from the list above to view the available sessions.

Customer Enquiries

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Terms & Conditions

Students will be required to comply with SERC's Terms & Conditions of study.

We strive to ensure the description of courses on SERC's website and in publications is accurate. However, for various reasons there may be occasions when the College may need to change arrangements or be unable to deliver classes due to circumstances such as reduced funding. If there are insufficient numbers applying for a course it may not be viable to deliver the class.

Courses are continually reviewed to take advantage of new teaching approaches and developments in research, industry and the professions. Please be aware that modules may change for your year of entry. The exact modules available and their order may vary depending on course updates, staff availability, timetabling and student demand. Please contact the course team for the most up to date module list.

Higher Education

Higher Education

If you have just completed your A-Levels, Higher Education is most likely the option for you. HE usually covers HNC, HND & Foundation Degree level of courses including our Higher Level Apprenticeships.

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