Are you looking for a vocational route into engineering to gain both practical and academic skills to prepare you for Degree Apprenticeships, HNC/D or University?
Our Level 3 Diploma in Engineering Technologies is an academic vocational qualification equivalent to 3 AS or 1.5 A Levels with UCAS Points accredited.
It is a structured, balanced pathway designed for students who want to develop a comprehensive understanding of engineering principles, science and maths.
This course provides a steady, supportive environment to master the essential technical knowledge required by the modern engineering sector, making it the perfect choice for school leavers aiming for a successful career in industry or further education.
Future-Proof Your Career: Where Mechanical Engineering Can Take You
Mechanical engineers are the architects of anything that moves. It is one of the most diverse fields in the world, offering stable and lucrative career paths in Manufacturing and Production, Building Services, Maintenance Engineering etc.
You could find yourself working in Aerospace and Aviation, developing lightweight composites for next-generation aircraft, or in Automotive Engineering, designing advanced propulsion systems for electric vehicles. The skills you learn are critical to Robotics and Automation, where you might program and maintain automated assembly lines, or Renewable Energy, engineering high-efficiency wind and tidal turbines.
Whether your ultimate goal is to become a precision CNC specialist, a high-earning design consultant, or a project manager leading global infrastructure projects, this pathway provides the launchpad.
Course details
- Full time
What you will learn
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Programme Features
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Programme content
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Progression and employment
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Method of assessment
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Entry requirements
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Additional costs
EAL Level 3 Diploma in Engineering Technologies:
This is a scientific and mathematical based academic engineering one year programme equivalent to 1.5 A-Levels with UCAS points.
It provides both the technical knowledge and practical skills required to progress next year on to a Extended or Technical Extended Diploma in Mechanical or Electrical Engineering; or to join an apprenticeship programme.
It comprises 7 modules which are assessed with a combination of on-line exams, theory tests, and practical tests.
Engineering and environmental health and safety
Workplace safety legislation, hazard identification, risk assessments, and environmental management systems (like reducing waste and carbon footprints in engineering environments).
Engineering organisational efficiency and improvement
Production planning, quality control systems, and continuous improvement methodologies (such as Lean Engineering, Six Sigma, and 5S) to optimise workplace productivity.
Engineering mathematics
Core mathematical techniques required for engineering applications, including algebra, trigonometry, calculus, and statistical data analysis.
Electrical and electronic principles
DC and AC circuit theory, magnetism, capacitance, inductance, and the operation of electronic components. Combining theoretical physics with hands-on breadboarding and testing.
Mechanical engineering principles
Statics, dynamics, fluid mechanics, and thermodynamics. Covers forces, stress/strain analysis, mechanical power transmission, and material properties.
Programmable logic controllers (PLCs)
Automation control systems. Designing, programming (often using Ladder Logic), and troubleshooting PLCs to control industrial machinery and automated processes.
Engineering design process
The lifecycle of developing a product. Covers interpreting client briefs, material selection, drafting CAD designs, manufacturing constraints, and cost analysis.
Your course will also include a 2 hour session every week with your course tutor, which follows a formal college wide tutorial programme and progress tracking and monitoring.
Your Progression: Two Routes to Success
Completion of this year enables you to either continue your academic journey and progress on to the Level 3 Extended or Technical Extended Diploma in Mechanical or Electrical Engineering, and then follow on to HNC or Degree; or to join an engineering apprenticeship programme.
| Path A: The Apprenticeship Route | Path B: The Academic Route |
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Year 1: Full Time at College: Level 3 Diploma in Engineering Technologies Year 2: College (1day a week): Level 2 Performing Engineering Operations Workplace: Level 3 NVQ Diploma Year 3: College (1day a week): Level 3 Extended Diploma in Engineering Technologies Workplace: Level 3 NVQ Diploma |
Year 1: Full Time at College: Level 3 Diploma in Engineering Technologies Year 2: Full Time at College: Level 3 Technical Extended Diploma in Engineering Technologies Year 3 onwards: HNC (PT 2 Years / FT 1 Year) HND (PT 4 Years / FT 2 Years) University Degree (FT 3 Years) Degree Apprenticeship (PT 5 Years) |
Continuous Assessment throughout the year
Only 2 attempts allowed per assessment ie 1 Resit
Please note you must pass every assessment in every unit to gain the qualification
Practical exams cannot be sat unless you have attended the practical learning sessions due to Health & Safety requirements.
This qualification is available to be assessed through the medium of English only.
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Engineering and environmental health and safety On-Line Exam |
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Engineering organisational efficiency and improvement On-Line Exam |
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Engineering mathematics 3 Calculation Exams |
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Electrical and electronic principles Theoretical & Practical Lab Work - 2 Theory Tests & 3 Practical Tests |
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Mechanical engineering principles Theoretical & Practical Lab Work - 2 Theory Tests & 1 Practical Test |
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Programmable logic controllers (PLCs) Theoretical & Practical Lab Work - 2 Theory Tests & 5 Practical Tests |
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Engineering design process 1 written exam & 1 design report |
- 5 GCSEs grades at A* - C to include, English/Welsh first language and Science
- GCSE Mathematics minimum of a Grade B
- A successful interview showing motivation and commitment to the programme
Please note:
100% Attendance is expected as there is no time to repeat practical learning labs and workshops. You must pass every assessment in every module to pass the programme.
College Admin Fee is £25 prior to enrolment
The following equipment is required and supplied at a cost of £80
(Funding is available for eligible students)
- PPE - Overalls, Safety Boots, Safety Glasses.
- Course Folder
- Zeus Books
- Measuring Equipment
- Stationary
- Calculator