Higher National Certificate in Mechanical Engineering
| Institution code | C83 |
| Duration | 2 years |
| Course type | Part-time |
| Study location | City College Plymouth |
We are a double Gold award-winning TEF college recognised for excellence in teaching and student achievement. Our supportive higher education community includes small classes, personal tuition, and dedicated, enthusiastic tutors and lecturers, delivering courses designed with employers. We offer higher national certificates (HNCs), foundation degrees and bachelor’s degree top-up courses approved by the University of Plymouth. Our courses combine academic study with the practical skills and attributes needed in the modern workplace.
Course details
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Year 1
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Core modules
CITY1077
Engineering MathematicsTo develop the student's mathematical ability and to apply principles to the solution of engineering problems and to make use of mathematical computer based packages
CITY1078
Engineering Science 1An introduction to mechanical principles, energy transfer and AC electrical theory. Mechanical principles including solid mechanics, statics, dynamics and mechanical vibrations. Modes of heat transfer and energy losses. Electrical principles and single phase AC theory.
CITY1091
Engineering MaterialsStudy of Material structure. Appreciation of material properties. Understanding of manufacturing and design considerations for the use of different materials.
CITY1092
CAD Techniques and DesignAn Introduction into CAD in the Design Process, progressing swiftly through 2D draughting to explore 3D conceptual design and visualisation. During this module students will take part in a relevant work based design project.
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Final year
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Core modules
CITY1095
Applications of Pneumatics and HydraulicsLearners will investigate pneumatic and hydraulic diagrams, examine the characteristics of components and equipment and evaluate the applications of pneumatics and hydraulics.
CITY1098
Management Techniques in Mechanical EngineeringOn completion of this unit to appraise the main techniques that improve organisations’ operations.
The modules shown for this course are those currently being studied by our students, or are proposed new modules. Please note that programme structures and individual modules are subject to amendment from time to time as part of the University’s curriculum enrichment programme and in line with changes in the University’s policies and requirements.
Fees, costs and funding
As this course is delivered by one of our partner colleges, please contact the college directly for information on fees and funding.
Tuition fee price changes
In November 2024, the UK Government announced an increase to tuition fees and maintenance support for 2025/26 academic year, setting the standard tuition fee and student maintenance loan at £9,535 per year and the University’s tuition fees were increased to this rate.
The UK Government has indicated that further fee increases may be announced this year and in subsequent years. If the UK Government does so, the University may increase annual tuition fees in subsequent years, which may include the fees for the 2026/2027 academic year, in line with the Student Contract and all times in line with the maximum tuition fee caps set by the Government. More information about fees and costs of studying.
How to apply
For further information and to apply for this course, please contact the college's admissions team directly using the contact details below.
Our partnership with City College Plymouth
The University of Plymouth has developed partnerships with institutions around the world with the sole purpose of making higher education more accessible to those people who need something just a little different.
Our Academic Partnerships enable students to enrol for a degree at a partnership institution closer to home, or engage in distance learning – even when they’re in the middle of the ocean. They are there for those people looking to return to education, or enhance their professional development. Full- or part-time; foundation degree to masters-level – we cater for a huge variety of needs and aspirations.
Many of our partners offer specialist degrees, unique facilities, and smaller class sizes at a competitive price. And as a student of two institutions, you get the best of both worlds; a supportive learning environment as part of a close-knit community, and a university-level qualification awarded by the University of Plymouth. You’ll enjoy not only the facilities and services your partnership institution provides, but also all of the additional support and resources you need from us, and you’ll automatically become a member of our Students’ Union, too.
We are continuing to grow the number of partner institutions and expand our academic community to new locations around the UK and overseas. Why not visit the Academic Partnerships page on our website for a full list of partners and for more details on studying with us?
One of our partners delivers this particular course – so please visit their website for full course details, entry requirements, tuition fees and information on what student life is like there.
Studying with City College Plymouth
Just one-and-a-half miles from the University of Plymouth, we’re one of the largest colleges in the South West, with two main sites linked by shuttle buses, with a dynamic Students’ Union and Student Liaison Team.
