This Level 3 National Diploma in Engineering is aimed at those looking to progress their engineering career, enter the profession or meet the entry criteria for higher education courses.
No prior study of the sector is needed, but students should normally have a range of achievement at Level 2, in GCSEs or equivalent qualifications. If this is your first level three qualification, you may be able to study the course with us free of charge. To find out more, click here.
The content of the qualification meets the knowledge, understanding and skills to underpin many roles within engineering. You will study 10 modules including Engineering Principles, Engineering Product Design and Manufacture, Applied Commercial and Quality Principles in Engineering and Specialist Engineering Project.
The qualification meets the entry requirements for the Preston College HNC engineering programmes, which provide a pathway with the University of Central Lancashire (UCLan) to achieve a BEng degree. Candidates who are planning to go to other universities are advised to check with their selected university that the qualification meets their requirements.
Please note: This course starts in September 2025. You may apply now; however, applications will not be processed until enrolments open in April 2025. A course advisor will reach out once we can proceed with your application.
WHAT WILL I LEARN?
This qualification has been developed in consultation with employers, professional bodies and the higher education sector, to ensure the content meets the knowledge, understanding and skills that underpin the role of people working in engineering today.
You will study five mandatory units, namely:
Engineering Principles
Delivery of Engineering Processes Safely as a Team
Engineering Product Design and Manufacture
Applied Commercial and Quality Principles in Engineering
A Specialist Engineering Project
You will also study five additional modules, exploring areas such as:
Electronic Devices and Circuits
Dynamic Mechanical Principles in Practice
Computer Aided Design (CAD)
Manufacturing Computer Numerical Control Machining Processes (CNC)
Workplace Experience and Development
HOW WILL I BE TAUGHT?
Delivery is mainly through classroom and workshop taught sessions in the iSTEM Centre. There is also an element of remote learning with tutor support.
Tutors on the course have wide experience in teaching and hands-on engineering skills from the workplace.
HOW WILL I BE ASSESSED?
Two of the mandatory modules are assessed through an external exam, the remaining modules are assessed through project work, written assignments and presentations.
WHAT CAN I DO NEXT?
This qualification has a primary focus of progression into employment with roles including Engineering Technician, Engineering Operative, Maintenance Engineer and other relevant jobs.
The qualification will also provide you with the transferable and higher skills needed to progress onto higher level qualifications, such as a HNC in Engineering at Preston College.
IS THERE ANYTHING ELSE I NEED TO KNOW?
For practical sessions in the workshop, PPE is required. This could be your own workplace PPE or clothing purchased for the course. This must include safety boots. Details of our supplier, who offers low rates, will be sent out before the start of term.
ENTRY REQUIREMENTS
GCSE at grade 4 (previously grade C) in Maths and English is required. We can help you achieve GCSE or Level 2 Maths and English during your studies.
