Free Manufacturing Engineering Foundation Degree in Birmingham

CostFREE
Duration87 weeks
DeliveryClassroom based
Start14 Sep 2026
Study modePart-time
AttendanceDaytime

About this course

Free Manufacturing Engineering Foundation Degree in Birmingham. Classes run at James Watt College, part-time during the day.

The course covers engineering principles used across aerospace, automotive, healthcare, and food production. You'll study over 87 weeks at a manageable pace. Topics include manufacturing processes, materials, quality systems, and engineering design. The course suits people already working in industry and those looking to enter it.

You'll need 64 UCAS points, including Maths or Physics at A Level, plus GCSEs in English and Maths at grade C or above. You'll finish with a Foundation Degree in Manufacturing Engineering.

Who this course is for

This Foundation Degree in Manufacturing Engineering provides a strong technical foundation for careers in the engineering and manufacturing sectors. Whether you're already working in industry or looking to enter the field, this course equips you with the knowledge and skills needed to succeed in roles across aerospace, automotive, healthcare, food production, and more.

Entry requirements

UCAS Tariff: 64 points (post-2017) or 160 points (pre-2017). Typical qualifications include 2 A Levels at grade C (one in Maths or Physics), or vocational qualifications in engineering, science, or IT. You�ll also need 5 GCSEs at grade C/4 or above, including English and Maths. Level 2 equivalents are accepted.

What you will learn

  • You'll study core manufacturing processes and how they're applied in industry.
  • You'll learn about engineering materials and their properties.
  • You'll develop knowledge of quality assurance and control systems.
  • You'll explore engineering design principles and technical drawing.
  • You'll understand health and safety practices in manufacturing environments.
  • You'll apply problem-solving skills to real engineering challenges.
  • You'll gain knowledge relevant to sectors including aerospace, automotive, and food production.

How you will learn

You'll learn through classroom sessions at James Watt College. Teaching combines lectures, practical workshops, and group work. Assessment typically includes assignments, projects, and written work. You'll build knowledge progressively across the 87-week course.

What you will need to bring

The centre will provide most materials. James Watt College will confirm anything else you need before you start.

Where next

Jobs you could do

  • Manufacturing Engineer, designs and improves production processes in industry.
  • Manufacturing Technician, supports engineering operations on the factory floor.
  • Engineering Technician, provides technical support across a range of engineering sectors.
  • Quality Control Inspector, monitors product standards and production quality.
  • Production Supervisor, oversees manufacturing teams and output targets.
  • Process Improvement Analyst, identifies ways to make production more efficient.

What you could study next

  • BEng (Hons) in Manufacturing Engineering, the natural next step to a full honours degree and senior engineering roles.
  • HNC or HND in Engineering, an alternative route to deepen technical knowledge in a specialist area.
  • Chartered Engineer status via a professional engineering institution, for those aiming at senior or leadership positions in the sector.

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