Pearson BTEC HND in Engineering (Industrial Automation)

Everything we touch, use and see day-to-day has been manufactured in an industrial setting. With constant improvement in robotics and communication technology, manufacturing processes are becoming more integrated all the time. There will be new, exciting job roles in the next 5-10 years improving manufacturing processes in line with Industry 4.0 through digital transformation. This course will provide skills required, such as Mechatronics, Embedded Systems, Programmable Logic Controllers and Industrial Robots.


Academic Year: 2024/25
Course Code: 11005
Campus: Bangor, Downpatrick
Study Type: Full-Time
Education Level Higher Education
Department: Manufacturing & General Engineering
Course Structure

The Industrial Automation Engineering programme offers a blend of theoretical and practical units essential for the professional engineer in a modern engineering environment. It focuses on the use of control systems, such as computers or robots, and information technologies for handling different processes and machineries in industry.

On completion of this course you will be certified with a Pearson BTEC Level 5 Higher National Diploma in Engineering (General Engineering)

Modules studied in year 1 include:  

  • Engineering Design
  • Engineering Maths
  • Engineering Science
  • Managing a Professional Project
  • Industry 4.0
  • PLCs
  • Industrial Robots
  • Mechatronics
  • Workshop (Mechatronics)

Upon successful completion of year 1, students will progress on to year 2 of the programme where they will study further modules including:

  • Research Project (double unit)
  • Professional Engineering Management
  • Further Mathematics
  • Lean Manufacturing
  • Embedded Systems
  • Further PLCs
  • Industrial Systems
  • Workshop (Mechatronics)

In addition to the above modules, students 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. 

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

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 64 UCAS Tariff points including:

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

OR

  • Pearson BTEC Level 3 Diploma in Engineering with overall award profile MM or MPP

OR

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

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

Candidates are assessed using a range of different methods. These include assessments, 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.

This programme is designed to prepare students for a career in the engineering industry or progression to related degree programmes, normally at second year of entry.

The course provides the opportunity to develop your engineering skills and project management capabilities through the engineering units and Project Based Learning required to complete the course. You will learn transferrable skills such as communication, organisational skills, problem solving, leadership and critical thinking which will help you apply to relevant jobs within the engineering industry.

Estimated at £50 to use on materials for final year project.

Course and Provider regulated by Pearson.

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.

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UCAS Information

You can apply directly to SERC for this course using the Apply Now buttons.

If you apply directly to SERC we will process a UCAS application on your behalf in accordance with the Data Protection Act 2018/ UK GDPR.

Applications to our full-time undergraduate Higher Education courses can also be made through UCAS.

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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.

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