Higher National Diploma (HND) in Mechanical Engineering (HTQ)

This is a progression course from the Engineering – Mechanical HNC

This programme is designed for those looking to develop a career as a mechanical design, maintenance, or test engineer. Throughout the course, you will enhance your problem-solving skills by studying topics such as Further Mechanical Principles and Materials. You will also gain the expertise needed to bring your designs to life through subjects like computer-aided design (CAD) and computer-aided manufacturing (CAM). Additionally, you will work with industry-standard technologies, including Solidworks, Sinumerik, and EdgeCam.

Based in the state-of-the-art Technology Centre, this one-day-a-week programme leads to an HND qualification in just one year. You should either be employed in or planning to pursue a career in a relevant industry. You will study a combination of core and specialist units that will develop your understanding of a wide range of engineering techniques. These units will also equip you with the analytical tools and concepts necessary to address both technical and managerial challenges in an engineering career. Furthermore, you will apply theories and techniques to real-world scenarios, ensuring you graduate with practical, industry-relevant skills.

Click here to view the Student Handbook for this course.

Topics for the one year full time course will include:

• Research Project (Core)
• Professional Engineering Management (Core)
• Further Mathematics (Specialist)
• Manufacturing Systems Engineering
• Advanced Mechanical Principles (Specialist)
• Virtual Engineering (Specialist)
• Further Thermodynamics (Specialist)

Topics for the first year of the part time course will include:

• Research Project (Core)
• Further Mathematics (Specialist)
• Manufacturing Systems Engineering

Topics for the second year of the part time course will include:

• Professional Engineering Management (Core)
• Advanced Mechanical Principles (Specialist)
• Virtual Engineering (Specialist)
• Further Thermodynamics (Specialist)

This programme is awarded by BTEC (units may change subject to requirements).

This course is a Higher Technical Qualification (HTQ). HTQs are technical qualifications that have been developed by employers and awarding bodies so students can develop the skills that employers want.

You will need to have passed the associated HNC in Mechanical Engineering at Exeter College. If you already have an HNC in Mechanical Engineering or equivalent from another college or higher education provider, then consideration will be given to your application, but an interview will be required. GCSE Maths and English is required at grade C (or 4) or above (or equivalent O Level).

Please be aware that Exeter College does not hold a CAS licence, and therefore is unable to consider applications from prospective learners who require a Student Visa. Non-UK nationals can be considered for courses as long as they already hold the Right to Study in the UK for purposes other than education.

A purpose built Technology Centre at Monkerton opened in September 2012. The centre combines the training and teaching of aerospace, engineering and automotive students with access to state of the art equipment within world class facilities. The CAD/CAM Suite includes 25 computers running the latest versions of AutoCAD, Inventor, Solid Works, EdgeCAM and SIEMENS 828d/840d control. The software will allow engineering students to experience ‘industry standard’ software and CNC machining equipment that give an understanding of CAD for manufacture.

Facilities also include:

• Rapid Prototyping
• Material Laboratory
• Electronic/Control Laboratory with simulation software
• Electrical Power Laboratory
• Electronics Laboratory
• Mechanical and Fabrication workshops

You will also have access to a Learning Resource Centre (LRC).

You are required to purchase some of the recommended books to aid self-study. All students need to have drawing equipment and a scientific calculator. There will also be additional costs relating to any accreditation of prior learning for candidates without an RQF HENC achieved at Exeter College.