This programme is aimed at adult learners who currently work in the engineering sector and wish to gain a Level 3 qualification, as well as those desirous of moving into an entry-level position with an engineering company.
Prospective learners will typically have some qualifications at Level 2, e.g GCSEs. Alternative entry qualifications will be considered on an individual basis. All applicants will have an informal interview with a member of the School of Engineering to discuss the best course of action.
The Level 3 part time engineering programme consists of a qualification from the Pearson BTEC Specialist suite; successful completion of the one year programme results in a Pearson BTEC Level 3 Award in Advanced Manufacturing Engineering, and the two year programme a Pearson BTEC Level 3 Diploma in Advanced Manufacturing Engineering.
The Pearson BTEC Level 3 Award has been designed to develop understanding in a broad range of topics, drawn from both of the traditional sectors of mechanical and electrical/electronic engineering, as well as transferable knowledge and skills used in all areas of engineering. Learners will complete units covering:
- working in health & safety
- mechanical principles
- electrical & electronic principles
- maths for engineering technicians
- communications for engineering technicians
- engineering drawing
If learners successfully complete the one-year programme, they may top up their qualification to the Pearson BTEC Level 3 Diploma by studying for another year. All learners will complete an engineering project and develop higher mathematical skills in calculus, together with more specific and specialist units; these could include hydraulics & pneumatics, programmable logic controllers, material science, measurement & inspection, electronics and/or further mechanical/electrical science.
A variety of teaching strategies will be employed in delivering this qualification, dependent upon the unit content. This may include:
- lectures
- seminars
- practical work
- simulated work environments
- group activities
Teaching and learning activities will take place in a range of specialist facilities, laboratories and classrooms.
The programme is delivered on a day-release basis; all classes will be taught on one day per week.
Assessment is at unit level and may consist of a variety of assessment instruments, including assignment work, practical work, presentations and time-constrained tests. All assessments are criterion referenced and students are informed of the grading criteria in advance. Each assessment component is graded either Pass, Merit or Distinction.
The overall qualification will be graded between a P (pass) and D* (distinction star), based on the combination of the individual unit outcomes.
Assessed work must be submitted by a strict deadline.
Upon successful completion of this programme of study, learners will hold qualifications that are recognised nationally by further and higher education establishments, as well as employers and other stakeholders. This will enable them to progress to employment, apprenticeships and further study.
