This course is designed for learners who work or wish to work as engineering technicians in the chemical or process engineering sectors. It has been developed in consultation with local industry, and combines theory and practical work with the focus being on industrial applications.
Higher Nationals Certificates and Diplomas (HNCs & HNDs) are designed to provide a programme of specialist vocational learning at Levels 4 and 5 which reflects the requirement of professional organisations and meets the National Occupational Standards for each sector or industry. Higher Nationals are recognised internationally by employers as providing learners with the key concepts and practical skills for direct progression to, or within, employment.
This Higher National Certificate is administered and ratified by Teesside University, and is taught at Hartlepool College of Further Education.
Typically, a prospective learner will have completed a Level 3 Diploma (720GLH) - or Extended Diploma (1080GLH) - sized qualification in a related field. Recommended entry qualifications include the C&G 0610 Level 3 Diploma in Process Technology or BTEC Level 3 National Diploma/Extended Diploma in Engineering or the BTEC Level 3 Diploma/Extended Diploma in Advanced Manufacturing Engineering, with a strong background in chemistry and process engineering.
Prospective learners without these qualifications but with prior experience in a related field may be admitted to the course via an interview with the course team.
A Higher National Certificate consists of eight Level 4 modules.
Learners studying for an HNC in Manufacturing Engineering will complete the following modules:
Part One
- Engineering Science
- Engineering Mathematics
- Chemistry for Chemical Engineers
- Mass & Energy Balance
Part Two
- Engineering Design
- Managing a Professional Engineering Project
- Heat Transfer & Combustion
- Fluid Mechanics
Part time learners will study Part One in Year 1 and Part Two in Year 2
A variety of teaching strategies will be employed in delivering this qualification, dependent upon the module content. This may include:
- lectures
- seminars
- practical work
- simulated work envirnoments
- group activities
Teaching and learning activites will take place in a range of specialist facilities, laboratories and classrooms
Each module has two assesments. The format of the assessments will depend on the content of the modules but could include written reports, practical tasks or examinations.
Assessments are outcome- and criterion-referenced, and will be graded Pass, Merit or Distinction. The overall qualification is also graded Pass, Merit or Distinction and is dependent on the individual module outcomes. Final grades are ratified by Teesside University.
Learners who complete this course and gain the qualification can progress to a Higher National Diploma in the same field or, in some instances, to an appropriate undergraduate degree programme. The Higher National Certificate is a recognised benchmark qualification in the engineering sector and will provide opportunities for career development. Typically, a HNC opens up the possibility of a career in a wide range of engineering disciplines including design, manufacturing, project management and IT.
