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 successfully achieved 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

Take the next step in your engineering career with our Higher National Certificate (HNC) in Electrical and Electronic Engineering – a nationally recognised Higher Technical Qualification (HTQ) designed to help you develop specialist skills and knowledge in areas such as Engineering Maths, Design, and Automation, Robotic and Programmable Logic Controllers. This course prepares you for more advanced study at Level 5 HND or progression into employment.

Through real-world projects and practical learning, you'll build both technical expertise and essential transferable skills including teamwork, communication, and problem-solving. Ideal for those starting out or advancing in the field, this qualification opens pathways to roles such as Engineering Technician, Integration and Test Technician, and Project Manager, equipping you for success in today’s engineering industry.

Taught by industry-experienced tutors, you’ll gain valuable insight into the latest methods and standards shaping today’s Engineering industry.

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 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 into roles such as an Engineering Technician, Integration and Test Technician or Planning Engineer
• Continuing existing employment
• Committing to Continuing Professional Development (CPD)
• Progress to university, studying for a related degree such as: BEng (Hons) Electrical and Electronic Engineering or MEng (Hons) Electrical and Electronic Engineering with Robotics

Core modules

Mandatory Modules:

Engineering Design

Engineering Maths

Managing a Professional Engineering Project (Pearson-set)

Production Engineering for Manufacture

Automation, Robotic and Programmable Logic Controllers (plcs)

Quality and Process Improvement

Electrical and Electronic Principles

Electrical Machines

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.