Free BTEC Level 3 Engineering Course in Birmingham – Solihull College and University Centre Woodlands Campus

CostFREE
Duration2 years
LevelLevel 3
DeliveryClassroom based
Start1 Sep 2026
Study modeFull-time
AttendanceDaytime
Awarding bodyPearson Edexcel awarding body

About this course

Free BTEC Level 3 Engineering Course in Birmingham. Classes run at Solihull College and University Centre Woodlands Campus, full-time during the day. This two-year Pearson Edexcel level 3 btec engineering qualification lets you explore different engineering career pathways before committing to one direction. You'll develop independent learning skills and gain relevant work experience to support progression into apprenticeships or degree study. To apply, you'll need either four GCSEs at grade C/4 or above including Maths or English, or a relevant Level 2 Engineering Diploma at Merit or Distinction, plus a successful interview.

Who this course is for

These flexible study programmes are designed to allow you to explore different engineering career pathways to find one which will suit your career progression.

From this course, you can progress into apprenticeships within engineering or onto degree courses.

This course will support you in finding relevant work experience and developing independent learning skills which are required for apprenticeships and further study.

In you first year, you can select from the following level 3 courses:

  • Level 3 Diploma in Aviation Operations
  • Level 3 Certificate in Computer Aided Design
  • Foundation Diploma Engineering

Your choice of pathway can be discussed at interview and will depend on the GCSE results that you achieve.

You will also be provided with an opportunity to resit one GCSE (either Maths or English) if you select the level 3 Diploma in Aviation Operations or Level 3 Certificate in Computer Aided Design.

If you are successful in your first year, you could continue onto a second year of study. The routes available include

  • National Extended Diploma Aeronautical Engineering
  • National Extended Diploma Engineering (Electronics)
  • National Extended Diploma Engineering (Design)
  • Foundation Diploma Engineering
  • Level 3 Diploma Engineering Maintenance

Entry requirements

Either 4 GCSE passes at grade A*/9 - C/4 to include Maths OR English and preferably science; or a relevant Level 2 Diploma in Engineering at a Merit or Distinction grade (and a minimum of Grade C/4 in GCSE Maths and English). Also, an excellent reference or school report followed by a successful selection interview.

What you will learn

  • You'll study core engineering principles including materials, design, and manufacturing processes.
  • You'll develop technical drawing and CAD skills used across engineering disciplines.
  • You'll explore electrical and mechanical engineering systems.
  • You'll build independent research and project management skills.
  • You'll investigate engineering career pathways to identify the right direction for you.
  • You'll gain practical experience relevant to apprenticeship and degree applications.

How you will learn

You'll learn through classroom-based sessions at the Woodlands Campus, combining taught lessons with practical project work. Assessment is through a mix of coursework assignments and externally set exams, as is standard for Pearson Edexcel BTEC National qualifications at Level 3. You'll also take part in a selection interview before the course begins.

What you will need to bring

The centre will provide most materials. Solihull College and University Centre Woodlands Campus will confirm anything else you need before you start.

Where next

Jobs you could do

  • Mechanical engineering technician: supports design and maintenance of mechanical systems.
  • Electrical engineering technician: installs and tests electrical equipment.
  • Manufacturing technician: oversees production processes in engineering settings.
  • CAD technician: produces technical drawings for engineering projects.
  • Engineering apprentice: earn while you train with an employer in your chosen discipline.
  • Quality control inspector: checks components and products meet engineering standards.

What you could study next

  • Higher National Certificate (HNC) in Engineering (Level 4): a natural next step if you want to specialise before going into work or further study.
  • BEng Engineering Degree (Level 6): this BTEC is a recognised entry qualification for many university engineering programmes.
  • Degree Apprenticeship in Engineering: combines employer-based training with a full degree, building on the skills and work experience developed during this course.

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