Level 4 HNC Manufacturing Engineering in Blackpool. Classes run at Bispham Campus, part-time during the day. The course is shaped through collaboration with employer partners and builds the technical knowledge and practical skills needed for manufacturing roles. You'll study key engineering principles alongside industry-relevant content, with the course running over two years. Entry requires a minimum of 48 UCAS points in an appropriate discipline, plus Maths GCSE at grade B/5 or above and English Language GCSE at grade C/4 or above.
Who this course is for
The part‑time Higher National Certificate (HNC) in Manufacturing Engineering is an industry‑focused qualification, shaped through close collaboration with employer partners to meet real workforce needs. Designed for those already working in engineering or looking to move into manufacturing roles, the course develops the technical knowledge, practical skills and industry awareness needed to progress into employment or further study with confidence. You'll gain a strong foundation in key manufacturing processes, systems and technologies, including: manufacturing principles and processes; engineering design and computer‑aided design (CAD); materials engineering; quality control and assurance; lean manufacturing and continuous improvement. Alongside technical learning, you'll study engineering mathematics to support analysis, planning and decision‑making in manufacturing environments. The course includes project‑based units designed to build skills in: planning and implementation; analytical and practical problem‑solving; applying theory to real manufacturing challenges. This blend of academic learning and hands‑on experience helps you translate technical knowledge into practical, workplace solutions. You'll have opportunities to work with industry‑standard equipment and modern manufacturing technologies in the College's Advanced Technologies Centre. This exposure ensures you develop the confidence and capability to operate in real manufacturing settings - helping you become workplace‑ready by the time you complete the course.
Entry requirements
A minimum of 48 UCAS points (excluding Functional Skills) in an appropriate discipline: DD from A levels to include mathematics and a technology, engineering or science-based subject; PPP from Extended Diploma, MP from Diploma, MM from 90 Credit Diploma in appropriate Engineering discipline; Mathematics GCSE at Grade B/5 or above and English Language GCSE at grade C/4 or above.
What you will learn
You'll develop technical knowledge of manufacturing processes and engineering principles.
You'll build practical skills relevant to modern manufacturing environments.
You'll gain industry awareness shaped by employer input.
You'll study materials, production systems, and quality management.
You'll apply engineering mathematics to real manufacturing problems.
You'll understand health, safety, and sustainability in engineering contexts.
How you will learn
You'll attend classroom-based sessions at Bispham Campus during the day. Learning is delivered through a combination of taught sessions, practical work, and assignments. Assessment is coursework-based, using assignments and projects that reflect industry practice. There are no traditional written exams for most units. Work is submitted and marked throughout the course rather than at the end.
What you will need to bring
The centre will provide most materials. Bispham Campus will confirm anything else you need before you start.
Where next
Jobs you could do
Manufacturing engineer. Oversee production processes in a manufacturing setting.
Production supervisor. Manage teams and output on the factory floor.
Quality control technician. Monitor and maintain product standards.
Process improvement technician. Identify and reduce inefficiencies in production.
CNC machinist or technician. Operate and programme computer-controlled machinery.
Engineering technician. Support design and development in an engineering team.
Maintenance engineer. Keep manufacturing equipment running safely and efficiently.
What you could study next
HND in Manufacturing Engineering (Level 5). A natural next step after the HNC, deepening your technical knowledge and opening more senior roles.
BEng (Hons) in Manufacturing or Mechanical Engineering. Many universities accept HNC or HND holders onto the second or third year of a degree programme.
Chartered Engineer status. A longer-term goal through a professional engineering institution once you have degree-level qualifications and relevant experience.
