Course Overview

This course focuses on the core principles of engineering excellence tailored to equip you with essential skills in CAD/CAM, quality processes and production engineering for manufacturing.

Through hands-on learning experiences and expert guidance, you will gain insight into the production engineering environment and its key contributions to manufacturing .

Gain invaluable skills in the field of CAD/CAM, master the intricacies of CAD software, ensuring your ability to design and innovate with precision.

Allow the learner to work between initial CAD/CAM activities leading onto actual CNC machining.

Additionally, you will gain an understanding of the fundamental principles of quality control, assurance and process improvement.


Typical job roles

The L4 HNC in Manufacturing would ideally suit a member of staff who is currently in a production / CNC machining environment (typically a 3rd year apprentice) who wishes to progress their academic learning. It is both an industry focused programme and is a nationally recognised qualification within the sector.


Course Modules

1st Year Units

  • Unit 4001: Engineering Design
  • Unit 4002: Engineering Maths
  • Unit 4004: Managing a Professional Engineering Project
  • Unit 4023: Computer Aided Design & Manufacture (CAD/CAM)

2nd Year Units

  • Unit 4014: Production Engineering for Manufacture
  • Unit 4017: Quality and Process Improvement
  • Unit 4030: Industry 4.0
  • Unit 4068: Industrial Robots

Entry criteria

Candidates are required to have:

  • A BTEC National Certificate or Diploma in a relevant subject grade Distinction
  • A Distinction in Mathematics or Mechanical Principles
  • At least one A level and a minimum of four GCSEs (including Mathematics and Science) at grade C or above.

Mature students with other qualifications or appropriate work experiences may be considered.


Typical duration

Delivery method: Day release on-site delivery, part-time programme
Duration: 2 Years, September to July


Career/progression opportunities

Pathways include further academic study or entering the workplace following completion of the HNC course.

Holders of the Level 4 Higher National Certificate may be encouraged to continue their part-time studies on a Higher National Diploma. In some cases, they may be able to gain admission to degree courses.