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HNC ENGINEERING

  • Start date:   August 2025
  • Level of Qualification:   SCQF Level 7
  • Course Type:   Full-time

HNC ENGINEERING

This course is your gateway to an exciting career in engineering. You’ll explore a range of engineering subjects, including Mechanical Engineering, Systems Engineering, and Renewable Energy, giving you a solid foundation in both the theory and practical skills needed in the industry.

Start date – August 2025
End date –  June 2026
SCQF Level -  7
Mode –  Full time  
Duration: 1 year

Throughout the course, you’ll develop essential analytical and hands-on skills that will set you up for success, whether you choose to move forward into the engineering workforce or continue your studies at university level. If you're looking to kickstart your journey in engineering, this course is the perfect stepping stone to help you achieve your goals.

Read about Gordon Paterson's West Lothian College experience here

  • What the course includes

    • Engineering drawing including CAD and Inventor  
    • Engineering Materials and their properties  
    • Dynamics  
    • Thermofluids  
    • Statics  
    • Engineering Maths  
    • Renewable Energy 
    • System Engineering  
    • Electrical , Mechanical and Electromechanical Systems.  
    • Pneumatics and hydraulics Systems  
    • Programmable Logic Controllers  

    This course will allow for development of key skills relevant to engineering industry.

Why choose this course

In this course, you’ll gain a deep understanding of how today’s engineering systems work and how they shape modern life, with a strong focus on practical applications. Engineers are often expected to have knowledge of all aspects of an engineering system, from mechanical to electrical, and this course provides a well-rounded mix of skills that are highly sought after by employers and companies in the field. 

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

  •  NC in a suitable subject or two SQA Highers, preferably in related subjects or  
  • Foundation Apprenticeship in a related subject  
  • Applicants with only mathematics or physics Highers may also apply  

We welcome applications from mature students with other qualifications or experience  

If English is not your first language, ESOL Level 5 is an entry requirement for this course. 

  • Graduation 2024

    Where it leads

    Education: HND, Degree-level of study.   

    You may be able to gain direct entry to year 3 of a degree course once you complete your HND.  

    • Past students have progressed onto further study at Napier, Heriot-Watt, Edinburgh, Glasgow and Strathclyde University some of top universities in Scotland specialising in – Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Energy and Environmental Engineering and Engineering with Management. (Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering).

    Employment: Graduate apprenticeship to qualify at technician level; foundation for engineering and technical jobs, including design, manufacture, servicing, maintaining and testing complex engineering systems.   

    • Past students have found employment with companies such as Screwfix, West Lothian Council, Plexus, Mitsubishi, JBT, Volvo, Click Netherfield and Babcock. 

Interview arrangements

Current West Lothian students will be required to successfully complete their course. 

If we invite you for interview, plan to be in college for one hour. Bring evidence of any qualifications stated on your application form. 

HNC applicants only: we will ask you to complete an aptitude test with questions testing some standard mathematics and English skills. 

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 

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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