HNC CIVIL ENGINEERING
The Higher National Certificate (HNC) Civil Engineering develops learners into highly skilled, professional engineers equipped with the knowledge and practical skills, vital for a successful career in civil engineering.This course is ideal for those looking to make a significant impact on the infrastructure and built environment of tomorrow.
On this course you will develop your knowledge, understanding and skills, whilst providing an experience of civil engineering that prepares you for further study or employment. Alongside the development of your skills and knowledge, you will also devleop practical skills in research, independent study, and directed study. You will also engage in work-based learning activities to develop professional behaviours and transferable skills.
This qualification is also recognised as an Institute of Technology (IoT) course, which has been designed to improve digital literacy of the workforce within the construction industry.
WHAT WILL I LEARN?
The HNC Civil Engineering course consists of the following units:
- Construction Design Project (Pearson Set)
- The Construction Environment
- Science & Materials
- Mathematics for Construction
- Civil Engineering Technology
- Principles of Structural Design
- Surveying, Measuring & Setting Out
- Building Information Modelling
These modules are carefully designed to integrate theoretical knowledge with practical application, ensuring that all learners are well-prepared for the demands of the industry.
HOW WILL I BE TAUGHT?
The programme is delivered through a combination of taught lectures, practical activities, workshops, tutorials, and site visits.
As a student on this course, you will also have access to our virtual learning environment, Canvas, for additional resources to support your studies.
HOW WILL I BE ASSESSED?
You will be assessed through the provision of evidence such as written reports, construction drawings/models, individual/group presentations, coursework assignments, project portfolios, structural analysis reports and solved calculations.
HOW MUCH WILL THIS COURSE COST?
Tuition Fee: Year 1: £4,000 per year (2025/26)
WHAT CAN I DO NEXT?
Career opportunities
With the appropriate industry experience, this qualification will enable graduates to progress onto a diverse range of opportunities in sectors such as Construction Management, Structural Engineering, Transportation and Highways Engineering, Water Engineering and Geotechnical Engineering.
Further study
This qualification also provides a pathway to progress onto further studies, such as a Level 5 Higher National Diploma (HND) or a full degree course in the engineering field.
IS THERE ANYTHING ELSE I NEED TO KNOW?
Awarded by: Pearson
Mode of Study: 2 Years, part-time
Location: Preston College, Fulwood Campus
Important Notice: Tuition fees for Higher Education courses starting in the 2025/26 academic year are currently under review.
Additional costs: You will need to purchase a pair of steel toe capped boots, a hi-visibility vest/jacket and a hard hat for use on site visits. We expect these items to cost in the region of £40, although this would depend on the type of boots purchased.
Please note this course will run subject to minimum student numbers.
ENTRY REQUIREMENTS
Preston College operates a flexible admissions policy, welcoming applicants with a wide range of qualifications and/or experience, with each application assessed on its own merit. We also recognise prior learning/attainment (RPL) and experience, meaning it may be possible to map some of your existing qualifications against the units for the programme.
If this applies to you, we will discuss this with you at the interview stage.
For students who have recently been in education, we would expect an applicant to have one of the following:
To be considered for the programme, students should have:
- GCSE at grade 4 or above in English and mathematics or equivalent
- Level 3 or above in relevant subject area
- Relevant work experience
Applicants who can demonstrate relevant work/life skills or knowledge will also be considered on an individual basis
Students who are not already working in the construction industry are encouraged to find paid or voluntary work to allow them to practice their skills outside of the programme's remit.