Duration

(Full-time) 1 year

Entry requirements

You will be expected to have English and maths at GCSE grade 4 or above or a Level 2 Functional Skills certificate in English and maths may be considered.

Applicants must also have achieved successful completion of a Level 3 qualification, equivalent to 64 UCAS points, such as A Levels or BTEC Level 3. Other related Level 3 qualifications such as VRQ, NVQ, or an Access to Higher Education Diploma or related work experience, would also be considered on a case-by-case basis.

All applicants who meet the entry requirements will be invited to attend an interview to demonstrate suitability for the course.

About the course

Launch your career in the aerospace industry with our HNC Aeronautical Engineering for England. This Level 4 Higher Technical Qualification is designed to equip you with the specialist skills and knowledge needed for roles such as Aircraft Flight Control Technician, Aeronautical Systems Engineer and Aerospace Engineer.

You'll gain a strong foundation in both practical and theoretical aspects of aeronautical engineering, focusing on real-world applications and industry-relevant skills. Key modules include Aircraft Aerodynamics, Aircraft Electrical Power and Distribution Systems and Airframe Mechanical Systems, alongside core engineering principles like mathematics, materials and project work.

Learning is delivered in our modern engineering workshops and labs at Stansted Airport College, supported by expert tutors with extensive industry experience. The course is ideal for those looking to enter the aerospace sector or progress to further study, such as a Level 5 HND or a degree in engineering.

Whether you're starting your career or upskilling for advancement, this course offers a direct route into the high-tech, high-demand world of aeronautical engineering.

Why study?

Higher Technical Qualification (HTQ)

This course is a Higher Technical Qualification (HTQ) approved by the Institute for Apprenticeships and Technical Education, meaning it meets current employer and industry standards.

A Recognised Qualification

The HNC is a Level 4 qualification, equivalent to the first year of a university degree and worth 120 credits. It combines academic learning with hands-on, career-focused skills.

Progression Opportunities

An HNC offers flexible next steps. Progress to a Higher National Diploma (HND), a Bachelor’s degree (BSc Hons), or move straight into entry-level Engineering Technician roles.

Designed with Employers in Mind

Developed with employers, industry experts, and universities, Higher National qualifications focus on the skills businesses need blending technical, business and employability knowledge.

Smaller Class Sizes

With classes of around 15 students, you’ll enjoy personalised teaching, individual support and plenty of opportunities to engage with your tutors and peers.

Where will this course take me?

The Level 4 Higher National Certificate provides a solid grounding on which students can build should they decide to continue their studies beyond the Certificate stage. The Level 5 Higher National Diploma allows students to specialise by committing to specific career paths and progression routes to degree-level study. On successful completion of the Level 5 Higher National Diploma, students can develop their careers in the sector through:

• Enter employment in roles such as: Aircraft Flight Control Technician, Aeronautical Systems Engineer or Aerospace Engineer
• Continuing existing employment
• Committing to Continuing Professional Development (CPD)
• Progress to university, studying for a related degree such as BEng (Hons) Aeronautical Engineering, BEng (Hons) Aeronautical and Aerospace Engineering, BEng (Hons) Aerospace Engineering

Core modules

Mandatory Modules:

Engineering Design

Engineering Maths

Managing a Professional Engineering (Pearson-set unit)

Aircraft Aerodynamics

Aircraft Electrical Power and Distribution Systems

Airframe Mechanical Systems

Composite Materials for Aerospace Applications

Turbine Rotary Wing Mechanical and Flight Systems

How much does it cost?

£6185

You may be eligible to a student loan to cover your fees and maintenance. This loan is available from the Government via Student Finance England. The https://www.gov.uk/studentfinancesteps website has full details and you can use their calculator to see what help you may be entitled to. 

If you have any questions our Admissions Advisers are on hand to offer financial advice and guidance. Please email  or call 01279 868100.