The course is for learners who wish to work as technicians/technician engineers in mechatronics design, manufacture, maintenance, testing or fault finding, or the communications industries. It has been developed in consultation with local industry, and combines theory and practical work with the focus being on industrial applications.
This is an award of Teesside University delivered in partnership with a college of your choice.
Admission enquiries: Darlington College (01325 503030 or enquire@darlington.ac.uk), Hartlepool College of Further Education (01429 295000 or enquiries@hartlepoolfe.ac.uk)
You study eight units covering the needs of local and national industries and business.
You gain experience of carrying out a design project, giving you an appreciation of how design involves harmonising key parameters and blending them into the design solution, and to produce a design report. You cover each stage of the process, including: client brief, planning, design specification, design report and evaluation.
You develop the fundamental analytical knowledge and techniques needed to successfully complete the core modules of Higher National Engineering programmes. We provide you with the knowledge needed for further study of analytical methods and mathematics, required for more advanced option modules. You explore fundamental algebra, trigonometry, calculus, statistics and probability, for the analysis, modelling and solution of realistic engineering problems at Higher National level.
You are introduced to the fundamental laws and applications of the physical sciences within engineering and how to apply this knowledge to find solutions to a variety of engineering problems.
You study international system of units, interpreting data, static and dynamic forces, fluid mechanics and thermodynamics, material properties and failure, and AC/DC circuit theories.
Managing a Professional Engineering Project (HN)
You are introduced to the techniques and best practices required to successfully manage an engineering project - from identifying a problem, through to finding a solution. You consider the role and function of engineering in our society, the professional duties and responsibilities expected of engineers together with the behaviours that accompany their actions.
You cover: roles, responsibilities and behaviours of a professional engineer, planning a project, project management stages, devising solutions, theories and calculations, management using a Gantt chart, evaluation techniques, communication skills, and the creation and presentation of a project report.
Applications of Pneumatics and Hydraulics (HN)
We provide you with the knowledge and understanding of fluid power systems in modern industry by investigating pneumatic and hydraulic diagrams, examining the characteristics of components and equipment, and evaluating the applications of pneumatics and hydraulics.
Control Systems Principles (HN)
You are introduced to the necessary skills and principles which underpin a range of control systems. The module encompasses control systems from different engineering disciplines and deals with the control concepts used in system design and maintenance. The approach is broad-based, to reflect the fact that control systems are, by their nature, multidisciplinary and not confined to a single specialised discipline. You are encouraged to recognise a system, not as an interconnection of different parts, but as an integrated module.
Digital and Analogue Devices and Circuits (HN)
You gain an understanding of a range of electronic devices and circuits used in modern electronic systems. The electronic circuits includes power supplies, operational amplifiers and digital circuits. You also loan a practical kit to allow you to design, build and test a series of circuits.
The aim of this module is to provide you with basic background knowledge and understanding of the properties, selection, processing and use of materials.
Mechatronic Systems Principles (HN)
You are introduced to the necessary skills and principles which underpin a range of mechatronic systems. You examine small single component systems as well as larger systems integrating components from different engineering disciplines. You also look at the control concepts used in mechatronic systems and focus on system design and maintenance. The approach is broad-based, to reflect the fact that mechatronics is multidisciplinary and not confined to a single specialised discipline. You are encouraged to recognise a system, not as an interconnection of different parts but as an integrated whole.
This module provides you with an understanding of microprocessor-based systems and their use in instrumentation, control and communication systems. You study the practical aspects of device selection, programming and the interfacing of external peripheral devices. The module also introduces you to the development cycle of specify, design, build, program, test and evaluate.
Programmable Logic Controllers (HN)
This module investigates programmable logic controller (PLC) concepts and their applications in engineering. It focuses on the design characteristics and internal architecture of PLC systems, the signals which are used and the programming techniques. You produce and demonstrate a programme for a programmable logic device.
Modules offered may vary.
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.
Assessment is by 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
You need an appropriate technician or craft qualification at Level 3 or similar, and a good standard of literacy and numeracy skills. The most common eligible qualifications include A levels, BTEC Extended Diplomas/National Diplomas and Access to Higher Education Diplomas. We may also consider substantial work experience in a relevant area.
If you have non-traditional qualifications, or wish to discuss your eligibility, please call our admissions enquiry telephone number or email.
For additional information please see our entry requirements
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
An HNC award opens up the possibility of a career in a wide range of engineering disciplines including design, manufacturing, project management and IT.
The qualification provides you with the opportunity to seek career development into senior positions in national and international companies. Alternatively, you may seek further study to HND, degree level and beyond.
Fee for UK applicants
£4,500 (120 credits)
Are you eligible for an iPad, keyboard and up to £300 credit for learning resources?
Live in affordable accommodation right on-campus
Study in our town-centre campus with over £270m of recent investment
Benefit from work placements, live projects, accredited courses
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