Level 4 HNC in Engineering in Daventry. Classes run at Northampton College at Daventry, one day per week over two years. This part-time daytime schedule is designed to fit around existing work commitments. The course costs £3,000 per year. You'll study engineering principles, maths for engineers, materials and manufacturing, engineering design, project management, and health and safety. It covers both theory and practical knowledge, giving you a broad foundation in engineering. Entry requires a relevant Level 3 qualification worth 48 UCAS points and GCSE English and maths at grade 4 or above.
Who this course is for
This course is suitable for a wide range of students, including apprentices, those who have completed A Levels or Level 3 BTEC courses, and mature professionals with industry experience. It is ideal if you are already working in engineering and want to develop your skills and gain a Level 4 qualification. The Pearson HNC is nationally recognised and supports strong career opportunities in the UK and overseas.
Entry requirements
Students need a relevant Level 3 qualification worth 48 UCAS points, such as A Levels, a BTEC Diploma or Extended Diploma, an Access to HE Diploma or an Advanced Apprenticeship. GCSE English and maths at grade 4 or above are also required. Applicants aged 21+ without these may be considered via interview with relevant experience. A maths assessment may be available if qualifications are not held.
What you will learn
You'll study core engineering principles including forces, motion, materials, and thermodynamics.
You'll develop maths skills for solving engineering problems in mechanics, electrical circuits, and systems design.
You'll learn about materials, their properties, and manufacturing processes.
You'll use design software such as CAD to create technical drawings and models.
You'll cover project management skills including planning, budgeting, and meeting deadlines.
You'll learn how to apply health and safety practices in engineering environments.
How you will learn
Classes are delivered in person at Northampton College at Daventry, one day per week. The course is modular, with each unit building your knowledge across the two years. You'll learn through a mix of taught sessions and practical work. Assessment is through assignments and projects set by Pearson Edexcel, in line with the BTEC Higher National framework.
What you will need to bring
The centre will provide most materials. Northampton College at Daventry will confirm anything else you need before you start.
Where next
Jobs you could do
Mechanical engineer: design and develop mechanical systems and components.
Electrical engineer: work on electrical systems, circuits, and installations.
Manufacturing engineer: oversee production processes and improve efficiency.
Design engineer: use CAD and technical drawing to develop products.
Project engineer: coordinate engineering projects from planning to completion.
Maintenance engineer: keep industrial equipment and systems running safely.
Technical support engineer: provide specialist engineering advice and troubleshooting.
What you could study next
Higher National Diploma (HND) in Engineering: a natural next step after the HNC, deepening your specialist knowledge and taking you to Level 5.
BEng (Bachelor of Engineering): many universities accept the HNC or HND for entry into the second or third year of an engineering degree.
Chartered Engineer status: longer-term, a degree combined with experience can lead to professional registration with bodies such as the Institution of Mechanical Engineers or the Institution of Engineering and Technology.
