Free Level 4 HNC Civil Engineering in Durham

CostFREE
Duration2 years
LevelLevel 4
DeliveryClassroom based
Start14 Sep 2026
Study modePart-time
AttendanceDaytime
Awarding bodyPearson Edexcel awarding body

About this course

Free Level 4 HNC Civil Engineering Course in Durham. Classes run at New College Durham one day per week, making it possible to study alongside work or other commitments. You'll cover Science and Materials, Civil Engineering Technology, The Construction Environment, and Principles of Structural Design. Civil engineers research, design, direct construction, and manage the operation and maintenance of engineering structures. This level 4 hnc civil engineering qualification can also lead to Graduate Member status with the Institution of Civil Engineers. The course runs over two years part-time.

Who this course is for

Course may be subject to change.

This HNC in Civil Engineering can lead to Graduate Member status with the Institution of Civil Engineers.

Civil engineers undertake research and design, direct construction and manage the operation and maintenance of civil and mining engineering structures.

You will attend the University Centre one day per week and will study key areas such as Science and Materials, Civil Engineering Technology, The Construction Environment and Principles of Structural Design.

You will also be expected to conduct additional directed and independent study to complete the programme.

This course can also be completed as part of a Higher Apprenticeship. Please indicate at application/interview stage if this is a requirement of your employer.

Entry requirements

Please refer to College website.

What you will learn

  • You'll study the science of materials used in civil engineering projects.
  • You'll explore civil engineering technology and its practical applications.
  • You'll examine the construction environment, including regulations and industry context.
  • You'll develop knowledge of structural design principles.
  • You'll build understanding of how civil engineers manage construction and maintenance operations.
  • You'll carry out directed and independent study to deepen your technical knowledge.

How you will learn

You'll attend classroom sessions at the Framwellgate Moor Campus one day per week. Alongside timetabled classes, you'll complete directed study and independent work as part of the programme. Assessment is through the Pearson Edexcel BTEC framework, which typically combines assignments, projects, and coursework rather than traditional exams. The centre will confirm the specific assessment requirements for each unit before you begin.

What you will need to bring

The centre will provide most materials. New College Durham will confirm anything else you need before you start.

Where next

Jobs you could do

  • Civil engineering technician, supporting design and construction projects
  • Site engineer, overseeing technical work on construction sites
  • Structural engineering assistant, working on building and infrastructure design
  • Construction project coordinator, helping manage timelines and resources
  • Highway engineer, planning and maintaining road infrastructure
  • Graduate civil engineer, progressing toward chartered status

What you could study next

  • Level 5 HND in Civil Engineering (Pearson Edexcel) - the natural next step after this HNC, deepening technical knowledge and moving closer to degree-level study.
  • BEng Civil Engineering (degree) - many universities accept an HNC or HND for advanced entry, shortening the time to a full engineering degree.
  • Institution of Civil Engineers Graduate Membership - a professional route for those working toward Incorporated or Chartered Engineer status.

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