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HNC ELECTRICAL ENGINEERING

  • Start date:   August 2026
  • Level of Qualification:   SCQF Level 7
  • Course Type:   Full-time

HNC ELECTRICAL ENGINEERING

Electrical Engineering is an industry that is fundamental to modern life, rich in innovation, and full of career opportunities. If you enjoy solving complex problems, working with technology, and seeing tangible results from your ideas, then this course provides an exciting and rewarding pathway into an ever-growing industry.

Please note: Applications for all Full-Time, Part-Time and Schools courses for August 2026 entry are now closed.
If you are interested in studying with us, applications for our January 2027 Full-Time Short Courses will open on 13th October 2026.

Applications for August 2027 entry will open in mid-January 2027. These courses will be showcased at our December Showcase Event, with full details available closer to the time.

Work-Based Qualifications (SVQs) still have spaces available, and applications are accepted throughout the year. For information on our available Work-Based Qualifications (SVQs) and how to apply, please visit our Work-Based Qualifications (SVQs) page.

Please check our website regularly for updates, course information and future application dates.

Start date – August 2026
End date –  June 2027
SCQF Level -  7
Mode –  Full time
Duration: 1 year

The HNC in Electrical Engineering is designed to provide you with a good understanding of many of the engineering fundamentals that help to power our world.

Knowledge and skills that can be taken into industry, or into further study routes such as HND or University.

  • What the course includes

    • Communication: Practical Skills 
    • DC and AC Principles 
    • Engineering Mathematics 
    • Electrical Networks and Resonance 
    • Electrical Safety 
    • Electricity Power Systems 
    • Electrical Machine Principles 
    • Three Phase Systems 
    • Power Electronics 
    • Applications of Electrical and Electronic Instruments 
    • Graded Unit 1 
    • Combinational Logic 
    • Applications of Programmable Logic Controllers 

Why choose this course

This course is designed for individuals who are passionate about pursuing a career in electrical engineering. Whether you aim to work as a technician, providing essential technical support, or as an engineer, designing and implementing innovative solutions, this program will provide you with the foundational knowledge and skills necessary to succeed in the dynamic field of engineering. It is ideal for those seeking to develop a strong understanding of both theoretical concepts and practical applications.

You will be taught by a dedicated, knowledgeable, and enthusiastic team of lecturers who will support you throughout your HNC.

You’ll also have the exciting opportunity to study as an associate student of Edinburgh Napier University, securing your place at the university for either second or third year in various engineering degree programs.

This unique pathway guarantees you a smooth transition to university, while also opening doors for progression to other top universities across the country including Herriot Watt, Edinburgh and Glasgow.

Whether you’re aiming for university or a rewarding career in engineering, this course gives you the tools and opportunities to make your ambitions a reality.

Entry requirements

Minimum entry requirements include:

  • NC in Electrical Engineering (Level 6) 
  • Higher Mathematics   
  • Relevant industrial experience  

Please note, if English is not your first language, ESOL Level 5 qualification is also an entry requirement for this course. 

  • Where it leads

    Why It’s a Great Career Choice 

    • High job demand 
    • Rewarding profession 
    • Strong earning potential 
    • Versatile career pathways 
    • Global relevance 

    Career Pathways 

    • Electrical Design Engineering 
    • Renewables 
    • Electrical Power Engineering 
    • Electrical Technician roles 
    • Electronics

    On completion of this course, you may progress to HND level or to one of the many excellent universities in Scotland. You may be able to gain direct entry to year 2 of a degree course once you complete your HNC subject to university entry requirements.

    You'll also have the exciting opportunity to study as an associate student at Edinburgh Napier University, securing your place at the university for either second or third year in various engineering degree programs, whilst studying here at West Lothian College.

Interview arrangements

If your application is successful, you will be invited for an interview. When coming to West Lothian College for an interview, please arrive on time and plan to be on campus for at least one hour. Please bring evidence of any qualifications stated on your application form.

We will ask you to complete an aptitude test which will comprise of Maths, English and Electrical based questions.

For all applicants, the interview will involve: 

  • Interview with two members of the engineering team (10 minutes)- they will ask you about your interests and why you want to study engineering 
  • An overview of the course and time for you to ask any further questions
  • Tour of the workshops

Interview Questions

General Motivation & Background 

  • What made you choose this course? 
  • What do you hope to achieve by the end of this course? 
  • What do you think are the most important qualities for someone working in Engineering 

Skills & Learning Preferences 

  • How do you prefer to learn – hands-on, visual, written, or a mix? 
  • What subjects or skills do you feel most confident in? 

Reflection & Commitment 

  • What are you most looking forward to on this course? 
  • What do you think will be the biggest challenge for you?

For all applicants, the interview will involve:  

  • A sit-down interview with members of the engineering team, who will ask you about your interests and why you want to study electrical engineering
  • An overview of the course and time for you to ask any further questions you may have
  • Aptitude test
  • Tour of the campus

Fees, Finance & Funding

There may be help available to assist with your study related costs. Impartial, confidential help and advice on financial matters is available from the Student Funding Team - including Bursaries, Educational Maintenance Allowance (EMA), Student Awards Agency for Scotland, Student Loans Company and student support funds. Click here to find out more. 

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Take that next step in your career and apply for this course today. If the course is not yet open for applications, feel free to ask any questions by clicking make an enquiry.

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