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NC ENGINEERING L5 DAY RELEASE YEAR 1

  • Start date:   August 2026
  • Level of Qualification:   SCQF Level 5
  • Course Type:   Part-time (Day release)

NC ENGINEERING L5 DAY RELEASE YEAR 1

The NC Engineering Systems course will give you a solid understanding of how modern engineering systems function.

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 – Aug 2026

End date –  Jul 2027

SCQF Level -  5 

Mode -  Part time (Day Release)  

Days: One day (Flexible)  
Times: 9am – 4pm  
Duration: 1 year (This is the first year of a two-year course)  

Cost: £780

You’ll learn about key areas such as mechanical engineering, electrical systems, electronics, and programmable control, while exploring how these individual components work together to create a fully integrated system.

This course not only equips you with the knowledge to succeed in the engineering field but also prepares you for real-world applications, making you an attractive candidate for employers seeking skilled individuals to support and enhance their engineering teams. 

  • What the course includes

    • Fundamentals of electrical systems 
    • Mechanical fundamentals 
    • Material science 
    • CAD 
    • Mathematics 
    • Control systems and transducers. 

    You will also have some ‘hands on’ classes in the engineering workshop.

Why choose this course

You should choose this course as it can provide a starting point in your engineering career.

This course will introduce you to a variety of different engineering disciplines; including mechanical, electronics and electrical engineering. 

Entry requirements

  • Student must be qualified to at least National 4 (Intermediate 1) in mathematics and 3 other national 4s
  • Mature applicants without the necessary minimum qualifications will be considered on an individual basis 

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

  • Where it leads

    Education: The course can take you onto a level 6 course or potentially right into our HNC in Engineering. Students have previously progressed onto further study at Heriot-Watt and Strathclyde University (Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering) 

    Employment: Engineering apprenticeship or employment in the manufacturing or service sector. Past students have found employment with companies such as Screwfix, Deans engineers, West Lothian Council and Babcock.

Interview arrangements

If we invite you for interview, please expect to be in college for around three hours. 

You should bring along evidence of any qualifications you have declared on your application form. 

Individual interviews will be held with a key lecturer for your chosen course and another member of staff. Timeslots will be allocated on the day. 

You will be asked to complete a short aptitude at an appropriate level which, along with your qualifications and the result of your interview, will allow us to assess your aptitude and suitability for your chosen course. 

During the interview you will be given the opportunity to discuss your motivation for wanting to undertake the course as well as having a tour of the workshop facilities.

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 industry?

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?

Please note: We may advise you of alternative courses that may be available to you should you not be successful for this course.

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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