Level 4 HNC Aeronautical Engineering in Leicester. Classes run at Leicester College Abbey Park Campus, full-time over one year. This level 4 HNC aeronautical engineering course covers aircraft systems, aerodynamics, engineering principles, materials, and mechanical systems used in aerospace. You'll also build skills in design, mathematics, and project management. The course runs from 8am to 6pm and combines theory with practical, project-based work. A tuition fee of £6,355 per year applies. On completion, you'll hold the Pearson Edexcel BTEC Higher National Certificate in Aeronautical Engineering for England.
Who this course is for
This is a one-year full-time programme, in which a Higher National Certificate (HTQ) is completed. With a career in engineering as your chosen route, this level 4 course offers students wishing to follow an electrical/electronic engineering pathway, both the higher level knowledge and also the understanding of how this is applied in industry. The HNC/HND in engineering course is designed to enable students who may have come through a vocational route to progress into higher education, building on the knowledge gained at level 3.
Higher Technical Qualifications (HTQ) at levels 4 and 5 are an alternative to apprenticeships or degrees. They may suit you if you want a more practical, employer-led study programme, approved by the Institute for Apprenticeships and Technical Education.
HTQs are technical qualifications that employers have helped to develop so that you can get the right training and skills you need to succeed at work. As well as studying the academic content of a standard HNC or HND programme the HTQ will also focus on the knowledge and skills required by industry.
On successful completion of the HNC, you will be eligible to enrol on the level 5 HND (HTQ)
What you will learn
You'll study the principles of aerodynamics and how they apply to aircraft design.
You'll explore airframe systems and aircraft power systems.
You'll develop knowledge of materials and mechanical systems used in aerospace applications.
You'll build skills in engineering mathematics and design.
You'll apply project management techniques to engineering problems.
You'll analyse and solve engineering problems using core principles.
How you will learn
Learning takes place in the classroom at Abbey Park Campus, with a mix of taught sessions and practical, project-based activities. Assessment is through assignments and projects that reflect real engineering contexts. You'll apply your knowledge to set tasks and demonstrate understanding through coursework rather than traditional exams.
What you will need to bring
The centre will provide most materials. Leicester College Abbey Park Campus will confirm anything else you need before you start.
Where next
Jobs you could do
Aerospace technician: supports aircraft maintenance and systems checks
Aircraft systems engineer: works on design and operation of aircraft systems
Manufacturing engineer: applies engineering principles in production environments
Maintenance engineer: carries out planned and reactive engineering maintenance
Automation engineer: works with automated systems in aerospace or manufacturing
Energy sector engineer: applies engineering skills in power and energy industries
What you could study next
HND in Aeronautical Engineering (Level 5): the natural next step after this HNC, deepening specialist knowledge and opening more senior technical roles.
BEng (Hons) in Aeronautical or Aerospace Engineering: a full degree for those aiming at chartered engineer status or graduate-level roles in the aerospace sector.
Apprenticeship at Level 4 or above: some employers offer degree apprenticeships that build on HNC-level study while you earn.
