Course overview
Buildings rely on innovative engineering to deliver safe, comfortable, efficient and sustainable spaces. You explore how modern building services are designed, managed and maintained, developing the technical insight needed to contribute to real industrial solutions—from low-carbon heating systems to electrical design, smart digital tools and renewable energy technologies.
This HNC offers a strong foundation for career progression—whether you aim to advance into design or management roles, move into building services engineering consultancy, or continue your studies to degree level.
This is an award of Teesside University delivered in partnership with Hartlepool College of Further Education (01429 295000 or enquiries@hartlepoolfe.ac.uk).
On the part-time route, you study the first year at Hartlepool College of Further Education and your second year at Teesside University, Middlesbrough campus.
The full-time route is delivered entirely at Teesside University’s Middlesbrough campus.
Course details
Course structure
Year 1 core modules (Part-time delivered at Hartlepool College of Further Education, full-time delivered at Teesside University Middlesbrough campus)
Digital Applications for Building Information Modelling (HN)
You explore the key processes involved in using digital applications to generate data and construction information that support the Building Information Modelling (BIM) process. Study how BIM and data use have become standard practices in planning, constructing and operating built assets across projects of all sizes. You learn how managing projects through a common data set can improve efficiency, reduce costs and drive sustainability across the built environment.
Mathematics for Construction (HN)
This module develops your underpinning mathematical knowledge and techniques relevant to studies in construction and civil engineering. You are introduced to mathematical methods and statistical techniques in order to analyse and solve problems within a construction engineering context. It has been designed to enable you to develop your knowledge of algebra, trigonometry, calculus, statistics and probability, for the analysis and solution of realistic construction problems.
Scientific Principles for Building Services (HN)
You develop your understanding of the scientific principles and mathematical concepts needed to design and specify building services plant and equipment. You explore key areas such as heat transfer, fluid flow, acoustics, electrical networks and control systems. Examine how these scientific principles underpin the relationship between building services and human comfort.
The Construction Environment (HN)
You explore the composition and impact of the construction industry on the environment and society. By examining the roles and relationships of individuals and organisations within the construction sector, you gain an overview of how the industry works both organisationally and personally to improve the built environment, minimise environmental impact and maintain economic sustainability and growth.
Year 2 core modules (delivered at Teesside University Middlesbrough campus)
Construction Design Project (HN)
You apply your skills and knowledge within a major piece of work that reflects the type of performance expected of construction technologists. The success of any project hinges on the development of a robust design and the provision of detailed technical information for construction. You look at areas including include project phases, construction drawing, detailing, Computer Aided Design, Building Information Modelling, schedules, specifications, bills of quantities and information collaboration.
Principles of Alternative Energy (HN)
Technologies that harness solar, wind and hydro energy are now established systems for generating power and heat. Along with other innovations such as heat pumps and bio-fuel, these are often incorporated into the design for new construction projects. Develop your knowledge of current and future energy technologies, applying it in your own analysis and assessment.
Principles of Electrical Design and Installation (HN)
You gain a broad understanding of electrical machines, distribution of electric energy and lighting design basics, and develop the skills needed to design simple electrical and lighting installations in compliance with relative legislation and standards.
Principles of Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning (HN)
You develop an understanding of the components and systems that may be integrated into a building services installation, including key calculations, sizing and specification of non-domestic heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems and components.
Modules offered may vary.
How you learn
You study eight units chosen to cover the range of needs of local and national industries and business.
The course is delivered using a combination of practical sessions, lectures and tutorials. You are required to complement your college-based learning with self-study.
How you are assessed
Your course includes a range of integrated assignments, case studies, projects and tests which are planned throughout the year.
Our Disability Services team provide an inclusive and empowering learning environment and have specialist staff to support disabled students access any additional tailored resources needed. If you have a specific learning difficulty, mental health condition, autism, sensory impairment, chronic health condition or any other disability please contact a Disability Services as early as possible.
Find out more about our disability services
Find out more about financial support
Find out more about our course related costs
Entry requirements
Entry requirements
64 Points from any combination of acceptable Level 3 qualifications. Examples include A-level, BTEC, Access to HE Diplomas, Scottish and Irish Highers, T-Level, or the International Baccalaureate. We accept T-Levels which include Level 3 maths and cover topics in calculus.
Find out how many points your qualifications are worth using the UCAS tariff calculator.
Subject Requirements:
Level 3 maths including calculus
We are not accepting applications from international students requiring a Student Visa for this course.
For general information please see our overview of entry requirements.
We cannot accept applications from international students requiring a student visa.
You can gain considerable knowledge from work, volunteering and life. Under recognition of prior learning (RPL) you may be awarded credit for this which can be credited towards the course you want to study.
Find out more about RPL
Employability
Career opportunities
This course opens the door to a wide range of opportunities in the construction and engineering sectors. Roles include building services technician, design engineer, CAD/BIM technician, maintenance engineer and energy consultant – with opportunities to work in consultancy firms, construction companies, local authorities and facilities management.
Gain high-demand industry skills and a strong understanding of the principles, technologies and practices that keep buildings safe, sustainable and energy efficient.
Key career benefits:
- Enhance your employability: the HNC is recognised nationally and valued by employers as a practical, work-related qualification. It demonstrates your technical knowledge, problem-solving ability, and readiness for responsibility on-site or in design offices.
- Build professional credibility: you develop an understanding of key areas crucial to modern construction, including heating, ventilation, air conditioning, electrical systems, renewable energy and building information modelling (BIM).
- Pathway to career progression: this qualification can support you in progressing from a technician or junior role into supervisory, design or project management positions. On completion, you can apply for advanced entry to study BEng (Hons) Building Services Engineering at Teesside University.
- Future-proof your career: as the industry moves towards low-carbon and smart building solutions, qualified building services engineers are vital for creating sustainable environments – making your skills increasingly valuable.