Pearson BTEC HNC in Engineering (General)

The course aims to provide opportunities for engineers or technicians to study a wide and diverse range of subjects en route to achieving a Level 4, nationally recognised, vocationally specific qualification.

2025/26

10616

Bangor, Lisburn

Part-Time

Higher Education

Manufacturing & General Engineering

Available Sessions

We have 3 sessions available for application on this course in Bangor, Lisburn.

Course Structure

This HNC programme aims to equip students with a broad range of engineering skills, providing a solid foundation in general engineering principles and enabling them to explore a range of subject areas and find their specialism.

The modules offered provide a blend of theoretical and practical skills essential for the professional engineer in a modern engineering environment.

Modules studied will include:

Engineering Design: Understand the methodical steps that engineers use in creating functional products and processes as an individual or part of a design team.

Engineering Mathematics: Develop skills in the mathematical principles and theories that underpin the engineering curriculum

Engineering Science: Understand 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.

Managing a Professional Project: Understand techniques and best practices required to successfully create and manage an engineering/manufacturing project designed to identify a solution to an engineering need.

Automation, Robotics and PLC: Investigate how Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs) and industrial robots can be programmed to successfully implement automated engineering solutions.

Digital Principles: Understand digital principles and the two main branches of digital electronics - combinational and sequential.

CAD for Engineering: Develop understanding and knowledge of CAD software applications used in contemporary engineering, and the practical skills to utilise the technology within your own creative work.

Mechatronic Systems in Manufacturing: Understand the design and operational characteristics of a mechatronic system, identify and apply a range of sensors, transducers and actuators, evaluate programmable control devices and design an integrated mechatronic system for a manufacturing specification.

In addition to the units outlined, you will also work towards a professional/personal development qualification and will be involved in a range of activities designed to improve employability within the Engineering sector. Please note, course fees are payable on this Programme.

This is a 2-Year Programme and course fees are payable each year.

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 Level 2 Certificate in Essential Skills- Application of Number, or equivalent in an approved alternative qualification.

AND

Passes in 4 different subjects (can include English Language and Mathematics and as above), with 1 at GCE Advanced (A) level (grades A-E), and 3 at GCSE level (grades A*-C*/9-4), or equivalent in an approved alternative qualification.

Course Entry Requirements

A minimum of 48 UCAS Tariff points including:

GCE A level (A2): Typical grade profile DD [to include 1 from Mathematics, Further Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry, Technology & Design, Design & Technology, Engineering, Electronics or Double Award Science/Applied Science.]

Pearson BTEC Level 3 Diploma in Engineering with overall award profile MP

Access to HE Diploma (NI): 45% overall in an Engineering Access course and [45% in level 2 Access Mathematics.

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

Assessment is scheduled throughout the course using a combination of assignments and practical work/observations.

Each unit is graded individually with an overall single final grade (Pass, Merit, or Distinction) awarded at the end of the course.

Students are assessed using a range of methods. These may include:

Coursework: You will be asked to complete research and/or report on your development activities in a formal report.

Presentations: Students will present their findings to peers with some external entities involved where appropriate.

Practical: You may be asked to demonstrate your skills by completing assigned tasks/activities.

This is dependent on the requirements of each unit of study. Oral, written or online feedback will be provided during the course to help improve and monitor performance.

Students that successfully complete the HNC programme traditionally progress to one of the following areas:

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 HNC 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.

As well as gaining a recognised qualification, you will receive training on a wide range of industry standard equipment and software.

Pearson is committed to delivering learning that is rooted in the real world and to develop work-ready graduates with the professional skills and behaviours that employers need.

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

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

There are no additional associated costs with this Programme

Course and Provider regulated by Pearson.

Available Sessions

We have 3 sessions available for application on this course in Bangor, Lisburn.

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

Lisa McBride

Pearson BTEC HNC in Engineering (General)

After this course I want to move into a different role in work – I currently work as a Quality Specialist, but I would like to become a Quality Engineer, so the course is helping me with all the relevant engineering skills I need.

Available Sessions

Title	Campus	Start	Spaces	Fee	Apply or get more information
Pearson BTEC HNC in Engineering (General) Y10616BD1A-25/26-PT	Bangor	15/09/2025 Day: Tuesday Time: 09:00-17:00	18	£1099.00	More Info
Pearson BTEC HNC in Engineering (General) Y10616BE1A-25/26-PT	Bangor	15/09/2025 Day: Tues, Thur Time: 18:00-21:00	18	£1099.00	More Info
Pearson BTEC HNC in Engineering (General) Y10616LE1A-25/26-PT	Lisburn	15/09/2025 Day: Tues, Thur Time: 18:00-21:00	18	£1099.00	More Info
Please select a campus from the list above to view the available sessions.

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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

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.

Explore Higher Education