Higher National Certificate (HNC) in Civil Engineering

This part time industry standard qualification is ideal if you are already employed in the civil engineering industry. It is well recognised by employers and provides a variety of topics with an overview across topic areas within civil engineering. You will study eight units, with an emphasis on civil issues and techniques, such as structural design principles and application, site surveying procedures and soil mechanics. You will have opportunities to put your theoretical knowledge into practice with real tasks including site surveying and evaluation site issues, through practical soil mechanics during geotechnical laboratory sessions.

The programme is a requirement for a number of civil engineering careers and provides progress towards technical professional status. Previous students have also continued their studies to a higher level at university. The programme also helps you gain an industry standard recognised qualification, with the potential for promotion within your employment.

You will study a number of core modules alongside your specialist modules. Modules will develop your understanding of a wide range of engineering techniques and provide you with the analytical tools and concepts necessary to understand the technical and managerial issues you may face in an engineering career. The programme is assignment assessed. In small classes, you will have formal lectures and undertake laboratory work and develop a practical investigating approach to learning. Taught by industry experts, you will apply theory to practical working situations.

Modules (for guidance only):

• Construction Design Project
• Science and Materials
• The Construction Environment
• Mathematics for Construction
• Civil Engineering Technology
• Principles of Structural Design
• Surveying, Measuring and Setting-out
• Construction Technology

This course may be studied as part of a Higher Apprenticeship, contact our Apprenticeship team.

This programme is awarded by BTEC.

Please click here to view the latest Programme Handbook: HNC Construction and the Built Environment Handbook

This programme is an excellent progression option from the successful completion of the Level 3 BTEC National Certificate/Diploma or Extended Diploma in Construction or Civil Engineering. Preference will be given to merit grade students. Students with considerable experience within the industry will also be considered.

You will be based at the Future Skills Centre, with access to Learning Resource Centres (LRCs), study areas, cafe, computer suites and well equipped Construction Laboratory (materials, structures, fluid mechanics).

Drawing equipment is required and course books are available but not compulsory. You must provide safety boots.