Topic “Engineering”

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Engineering

Engineering (Mechanical)

Course Overview

Type of Course and Awarding Body 

BTEC Subsidiary/Extended Diploma

Level 

Level Three

What's it all about? 

Would you like to go into product design, manufacturing engineering or mechanical engineering at technician level? Do you like to work out how things go together? Are you good with your hands? Our course will prepare you with the practical craftsmanship and technical know-how you will need to demonstrate to an employer that you will be a valuable asset to their business.

 

Progression 

On successful completion you may progress to:

  • an engineering-based foundation degree at the College
  • an Apprenticeship
  • a wide range of careers in the engineering industry.

 

Entry Requirements 

In our experience in order to be successful on this level of course you will need one of the following:

  • four to five GCSEs at Grades A*-C (including English, science and maths (higher maths) at grades A*-B), or a level 2 diploma at merit grade
  • an intermediate GNVQ in a related subject which includes maths and science
  • a BTEC first diploma in a related subject with a merit profile
  • an NVQ level 2/technical certificate in a related subject
  • equivalent qualifications.

 

Duration 

Two Years, which includes 2 terms for Subsidiary (NDMA) and 4 terms for Extended (NDME)

Run On Demand? 

No

Roll On Roll Off? 

No

Are there any exams? 

Assessment is through a programme of coursework and formal assessment working within agreed timescales. There are exams in functional skills.

Course Content

What does the course involve? 

The subsidiary diploma includes:

  • health and safety in the engineering workplace
  • mechanical principles and applications
  • maths for engineering technicians
  • properties and applications of engineering materials
  • engineering drawing for technicians
  • selecting and using programmable logic controllers.

There is also a requirement to complete functional skills and a welding unit.

For those continuing onto the extended diploma, another 12 units are studied including further maths and project modules:

  • communication for engineers
  • engineering project
  • further mechanical principles and applications
  • engineering primary forming processes
  • computer aided drafting
  • mechanical measurement and inspection techniques
  • further maths for engineering technicians
  • applications of mechanical systems in engineering
  • principles and applications of fluid mechanics
  • engineering design
  • engineering secondary and finishing techniques.

When can I study? 

Various days and times

Electrical/Electronic Engineering

Course Overview

Type of Course and Awarding Body 

BTEC Extended Diploma

Level 

Level Three

What's it all about? 

This course is an extension of the Subsidiary Diploma in Engineering which is a prerequisite for entry, and aims to improve your suitability for the world of work, particularly in electronics. It contains a further 12 modules, including communications and project for engineering technicians. It then goes on to provide you with skills in further maths that will be used to help your understanding of the remaining modules and also provides an excellent introduction for further study at higher education level.

Progression 

The course will qualify you to an equivalent of three GCSE A levels (one transfered from the subsidiary diploma). The grade awarded - pass, merit or distinction - will be obtained by your performance across the modules and result in up to 420 UCAS points. This will provide you with a skill set that would enable you to be employed in a company as a trainee technician, or you may be accepted onto an Apprenticeship.

The UCAS points gained will enable you to apply for higher education level courses in similar subjects here or at any university.

Entry Requirements 

In our experience in order to be successful on this level of programme you will need one of the following:

  • four GCSEs at Grades A*-C (to include English and maths preferably at the higher tier)
  • an intermediate GNVQ in a related subject
  • a BTEC level 2 diploma in a related subject
  • an NVQ level 2/technical certificate in a related subject
  • successful completion of an Apprenticeship programme
  • equivalent qualifications or relevant work experience.

Duration 

One term from April to July, then one year from September to July to run consecutively

Run On Demand? 

No

Roll On Roll Off? 

No

Are there any exams? 

Individual in-class tests/exams may be required in some modules.

Course Content

What does the course involve? 

Units carried forward from the subsidiary diploma include:

  • health and safety
  • electrical principles
  • maths for engineers
  • principles and applications of electonic devices
  • measurement and test
  • features and applications of electrical machines.

Extended units to be studied include:

  • communications for engineers
  • engineering project
  • further electrical principles
  • further maths for engineers
  • selecting and using PLCs
  • electrical technology
  • principles and applications of analogue electronics
  • construction and applications of digital systems
  • three phase motors and drives
  • electronic circuit design and manufacture
  • microprocessor systems and applications.

When can I study? 

Four days per week

Research Methods for Engineers

Course Overview

Type of Course and Awarding Body 

College certificate

Level 

Level Two

What's it all about? 

This course is for those who are interested in research methods in engineering, and will provide a more detailed view of how to use the subject.

Entry Requirements 

There are no formal entry requirements, however, a fundamental interest in the subject and the ability to understand basic statistics will be beneficial.

Duration 

Ten weeks

Run On Demand? 

Yes

Roll On Roll Off? 

No

Are there any exams? 

There are no exams

Course Content

What does the course involve? 

The following topics are covered:

  • introduction to research methods
  • quantitative methods
  • qualitative methods
  • target population, reliability and triangulation
  • data collection - locally and internationally
  • analysis of quantitative data
  • analysis of qualitative data
  • processing and presenting data
  • data collection and analysis simulation
  • conduct a simple research.

When can I study? 

6.00pm - 8.00pm one evening a week

Fluid Dynamics for Beginners

Course Overview

Type of Course and Awarding Body 

College certificate

Level 

Level Two

What's it all about? 

This course is for those who are interested in fluid mechanics and would like to have a more detailed view of how to use the theory in practice.

Entry Requirements 

There are no formal entry requirements, however, a good knowledge of basic mathmatics and an interest in the subject would be beneficial.

Duration 

Ten weeks

Run On Demand? 

Yes

Roll On Roll Off? 

No

Are there any exams? 

There are no exams.

Course Content

What does the course involve? 

The course will cover the following topics:

  • introduction to fluid mechanics
  • fluid statics - concepts of density
  • calculation of density
  • concepts of fluid pressure and force
  • practical calculation of pressure and force
  • archimedes principle
  • fluid dynamics - flow equation
  • pipe design and branching
  • impact of water jets
  • wind turbines and wheels.

When can I study? 

6.00pm - 8.00pm one evening a week

Engineering (Fabrication and Welding, Mechanical Manufacturing, Maintenance)

Course Overview

Type of Course and Awarding Body 

Certificate - City & Guilds 2800

Level 

Level Two

What's it all about? 

This vocationally related qualification has been designed by City & Guilds in order to meet the needs of candidates who are employed or want to gain employment in the engineering sector. It can be a stand alone qualification or a technical certificate as part of an apprenticeship framework.

The course is suitable for an employed student on an apprenticeship programme or part of a development programme for a student wishing to enhance their practical skills and knowledge in this area. It would also provide a compilation of certificates to enhance employment prospects.

Progression 

On successful completion of the course students may progress to the certificate in engineering level 3 course.

Entry Requirements 

In our experience in order to be successful on this level of course you will need one of the following:

  • four GCSEs at grades D-G (including English, maths and science)
  • a BTEC foundation diploma in a related subject
  • an NVQ level 1 / technical certificate in a related subject
  • successful completion of the Gateway / Newstart programme
  • successful completion of the PLP / Prince's Trust programme
  • equivalent qualifications or relevant work experience.

Duration 

One year

Business Benefits 

This is the main knowledge-based vocational qualification to get students started. They will learn practical skills to suit a variety of engineering roles, from welding and sheet metal manufacturing to vacuum forming and moulding.

A certificate in engineering is for anyone who wants to develop their engineering skills, retrain in the sector or officially recognise their existing skills.

Are there any exams? 

Assessment includes coursework, GOLA online assessments, theoretical / practical assignments and written examinations.

Course Content

What does the course involve? 

This course comprises of five units studied over one year on a one day per week basis. There are two core units, a principle unit which determines the chosen pathway followed by two further trade related units.

The three pathways currently offered (subject to sufficient numbers) and typical units of study are:

Fabrication and Welding Technology

  • TIG welding.
  • Fabricating steelwork assemblies.

Manufacturing Technology

  • Machining by milling.
  • Machining by turning.

Maintenance Technology

  • Maintaining mechanical devices and equipment.
  • Assembling and maintaining pneumatic systems.

When can I study? 

Various days and times

Mechanical Design and Manufacture

Course Overview

Type of Course and Awarding Body 

Higher National Certificate (awarded by Plymouth University)

Level 

Level Four
Level Five

What's it all about? 

Engineers who design, analyse, test, produce and use all types of mechanical systems need to take a strong scientific, analytical approach to their work.This course will not only train you to a very high standard in these methods but also add to them a range of other vital competencies such as report writing, time management and budgeting. It will help you develop your ability to solve problems.

 

Progression 

On successful completion you may progress to:

  • the final year of the Mechanical Design and Manufacture Foundation Degree at the College with one year's further study. You may then apply to progress on to the final year of the Marine and Composite Technology degree at Plymouth University
  • a career within the mechanical design and manufacturing industries.

Entry Requirements 

Dependent upon the course, we welcome applications from people who have:

  • 60-120 UCAS tariff points
  • a BTEC national award in a related subject
  • a 14-19 advanced diploma
  • an advanced Apprenticeship
  • an NVQ level 3 in a related subject
  • equivalent qualifications or relevant work experience.

Duration 

Two years

Business Benefits 

This HNC offers broad modules which reflect the demands of the industry. It is designed to develop the student's mechanical engineering design skills, providing a sound foundation in the supporting principles of science, mathematics and manufacturing methods.

Run On Demand? 

No

Roll On Roll Off? 

No

Are there any exams? 

Modules are assessed by a mixture of coursework, in-class tests and examinations

Course Content

What does the course involve? 

The course includes the following modules:

  • business management techniques
  • analytical methods for engineers
  • engineering science/engineering design project
  • mechanical principles
  • fluid mechanics
  • engineering materials
  • computer-aided design (CAD) techniques/advanced CAD
  • health, safety and risk assessment
  • plant and process principles
  • statistical process control
  • design for manufacture
  • manufacturing processes
  • planning and scheduling
  • quality assurance and management.

When can I study? 

Part-time (day plus evening class)

Boat Outfitting

Course Overview

Type of Course and Awarding Body 

Technical Certificate - City & Guilds 2463

NVQ - EAL Performing Engineering Operations Level 2

Level 

Level Two

What's it all about? 

Are you good with your hands? Do you have an eye for detail? Do you like the idea of working on luxury yachts? This unique full-time course is aimed at those who wish to gain a broad range of outfitting, carpentry and practical skills relating to the marine industry.

Progression 

On successful completion you may progress to:

  • an Apprenticeship
  • an appropriate level 3 course at the College
  • employment within the industry.

Entry Requirements 

In our experience in order to be successful on this level of course you will need one of the following:

  • four GCSEs at grades D-F ( English and maths at grade C)
  • a BTEC foundation diploma in a related subject
  • an NVQ level 1/technical certificate in a related subject
  • equivalent qualifications or relevant work experience.

 

Duration 

One year

Business Benefits 

Provides the necessary foundation knowledge and skills employers require.

Are there any exams? 

You will be assessed through assignments, practical end tests and two City & Guilds online examinations.

Course Content

What does the course involve? 

The course includes the following units:

  • working safely in an engineering environment
  • working efficiently and effectively in engineering
  • using and communicating technical information
  • using wood for pattern, model making and other engineering applications assembling pattern, model and engineering woodwork components
  • producing composites mouldings using wet lay-up techniques.

When can I study? 

9.00am - 4.30pm, three days per week

Pipe Weld Code of Practice Test

Course Overview

Type of Course and Awarding Body 

Summit Skills - HVCA

Level 

Level Three

What's it all about? 

This course is available as an advancement to your welding experience and / or existing qualifications. It is suitable for employment in the heating and ventilation / mechanical services environment. This will apply if you are an apprentice or an experienced worker in these areas. The qualification duration will vary depending on the category or experience of the individual and can also be a valuable addition to an existing skill card.

Progression 

On completion of this course you can progress to similar courses within the College.

Entry Requirements 

In our experience in order to be successful on this level of course you will need one of the following:

  • successful completion of an advanced apprenticeship programme
  • equivalent qualifications or relevant work experience.

All candidates should be working in the heating and ventilation industry with a minimum of six months recent experience and have access to welding experience on site. Candidates who are unemployed can take the test however conditions apply relating to previous employment.

Duration 

One day

Business Benefits 

This course is for students working in the heating and ventilation industry who have access to welding experience on site.

Run On Demand? 

Yes

Are there any exams? 

You will be assessed in a variety of ways.

Course Content

What does the course involve? 

You can take practical tests in oxy-acetylene and manual metal arc. There are two types of welding competency available, a provisional certification for apprentices valid for one year under supervision, or full certification valid for three years.

When can I study? 

Various days and times

Marine Engineering

Course Overview

Type of Course and Awarding Body 

Higher National Certificate (awarded by Plymouth University)

Level 

Level Four

What's it all about? 

Are you interested in science and technology in the marine and offshore engineering industry? As a marine engineer you will need to be responsible, safety conscious and a good team worker. We will teach you crucial skills so you will understand the design, construction, operation and maintenance of engines and machinery in ships and marine installations.

Progression 

On successful completion you may progress to:

  • the final year of the Mechanical Design and Manufacture Foundation Degree at the College, with one year's further study. You may then apply to progress on to the final year of the Marine and Composite Technology degree at Plymouth University.
  • a career within the mechanical design and manufacturing industries.

Entry Requirements 

Dependent upon the course, we welcome applications from people who have:

  • 60-120 UCAS tariff points
  • a BTEC national award in a related subject
  • a 14-19 advanced diploma
  • an advanced Apprenticeship
  • an NVQ level 3 in a related subject
  • equivalent qualifications or relevant work experience.

Duration 

Two years

Business Benefits 

Educate marine engineering students to be competent engineers, promote an active interest in marine engineering and encourage students to respond to changes and developments within their profession. It will also provide knowledge and understanding of current theories and developments in marine engineering.

Run On Demand? 

No

Roll On Roll Off? 

No

Are there any exams? 

Modules are assessed by a mixture of coursework, in-class tests and examinations.

Course Content

What does the course involve? 

The course includes the following modules:

  • business management techniques
  • analytical methods for engineers
  • engineering science/engineering design
  • mechanical principles
  • fluid mechanics
  • engineering materials
  • computer-aided design (CAD) techniques/advanced CAD
  • health, safety and risk assessment
  • plant and process principles
  • statistical process control
  • design for manufacture
  • manufacturing processes
  • planning and scheduling
  • quality assurance and management.

When can I study? 

Various days (one day per week)

Mechanical Design and Manufacture

Course Overview

Type of Course and Awarding Body 

Foundation Degree, FdSc (awarded by Plymouth University)

Level 

Level Five

UCAS Code 

H711

What's it all about? 

Engineers who design, analyse, test, produce, and use all types of mechanical systems need to take a strong scientific, analytical approach to their work. Our foundation degree will not only train you to a very high standard in these methods but also add to them a range of other vital competencies such as report writing, time management and budgeting.

Progression 

On successful completion you may progress to:

  • the final year of the BSc (Hons) Mechanical Design and Manufacture, or the second year of the BEng (Hons) Mechanical Engineering or the BEng (Hons) Mechanical Engineering with Composites degrees at Plymouth University
  • enter employment in the industry.

Entry Requirements 

In our experience in order to be successful on this level of course you will need to have a minimum of four GCSEs at grade C or above including maths and science, and one of the following:

  • 120 UCAS tariff points - to include a science or maths based subject
  • an NVQ Level 3 (in a science or maths based subject)
  • equivalent qualifications or relevant work experience.

Duration 

Two years

Business Benefits 

This foundation degree offers broad modules which reflect the demands of the industry. It is designed to develop the student's mechanical engineering design skills, providing a sound foundation in the supporting principles of science, mathematics and manufacturing methods.

Run On Demand? 

No

Roll On Roll Off? 

No

Are there any exams? 

Modules are assessed by a mixture of coursework, in-class tests and examinations.

Course Content

What does the course involve? 

The course includes the following modules:

  • business management techniques
  • analytical methods for engineers
  • engineering science
  • engineering design project
  • mechanical principles
  • fluid mechanics
  • engineering materials
  • compuet-aided design (CAD) techniques / advanced CAD
  • health, safety and risk assessment
  • plant and process principles
  • statistical process control
  • design for manufacture
  • manufacturing processes
  • planning and scheduling
  • quality assurance and management.

When can I study? 

Various days and times plus an evening class

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