Access to HE Engineering Course in Birmingham

CostCheck if you can do this free
Duration1 year
LevelLevel 3
DeliveryClassroom based
Start6 Sep 2027
Study modePart-time
AttendanceEvening
Awarding bodyAim Awards awarding body

Free or reduced fees may be available, depending on your circumstances. Contact South & City College Birmingham for more info.

About this course

Access to HE Engineering Course in Birmingham. Evening access to he engineering classes run at Longbridge Campus, one year part-time, so you can fit study around your existing commitments. You'll need Grade 4/C or above in both maths and English to apply. Selection is by interview and initial assessment. The course is free for some learners and fees may apply for others. For full fee information, call 0121 694 5001 or visit the centre website. It covers the science, maths, and technical knowledge that engineering degree programmes expect. The Course is recognised by UK universities as meeting entry requirements for undergraduate study.

Who this course is for

By studying the Access to Higher Education Diploma Engineering, you will be able to pursue engineering at degree level. Access courses offer a one-year, Level 3 qualification specifically tailored for adults who have been out of education for a while and wish to go on to study at university. This programme is ideal for those who did not attain typical qualifications like A Levels upon leaving school. This course aims to develop the skills and knowledge required for undergraduate degree courses in an engineering related field. If you feel you need extra help with your numeracy and language skills before starting the Access to HE Diploma, please enquire about our Pre-Access courses which are designed to prepare people for Level 3 study.

Entry requirements

You will need Grade 4/C or above in both maths and English/English language. Selection is on the basis of an interview and completing an initial assessment.

If you would like help with your numeracy and language skills before starting the Access to HE Diploma, please enquire about our Pre-Access courses which are designed to prepare people for Level 3 study.

What you will learn

  • You'll study mathematics relevant to engineering, including algebra, calculus, and statistics.
  • You'll explore core physics concepts such as forces, energy, and electrical principles.
  • You'll develop scientific report writing and academic study skills for university-level work.
  • You'll analyse engineering problems and apply structured problem-solving approaches.
  • You'll build an understanding of materials, structures, and mechanical systems.
  • You'll practise referencing, research, and essay writing to prepare for degree-level assessment.

How you will learn

You'll learn through classroom sessions at Longbridge Campus on evenings across the year. Assessment is through a combination of assignments, written tasks, and portfolio work rather than formal exams. Each unit is assessed separately, and you'll receive feedback as you progress. The centre uses an initial assessment at the start to confirm the course is the right level for you.

What you will need to bring

The centre will provide most materials. Longbridge Campus will confirm anything else you need before you start.

Where next

Jobs you could do

  • Engineering technician: support design and testing in manufacturing or utilities
  • Technical sales engineer: advise clients on engineering products and solutions
  • CAD technician: produce technical drawings for construction or product design
  • Project coordinator: assist with planning and delivery of engineering projects
  • Graduate engineer: entry-level role after completing an engineering degree
  • Quality control inspector: check products and processes meet technical standards

What you could study next

  • BEng or MEng in Civil, Mechanical, Electrical, or Chemical Engineering: the direct next step for most learners completing this level 3 access to he engineering qualification.
  • BEng Engineering Technology or Foundation Year Engineering: some universities offer a foundation year if you want extra preparation before a full degree.
  • HNC in Engineering (Level 4): a shorter higher-level option if you want to build technical skills before committing to a full degree programme.

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