Industry‑led training for modern manufacturing environments
The part‑time Higher National Certificate (HNC) in Manufacturing Engineering is an industry‑focused qualification, shaped through close collaboration with employer partners to meet real workforce needs.
Designed for those already working in engineering or looking to move into manufacturing roles, the course develops the technical knowledge, practical skills and industry awareness needed to progress into employment or further study with confidence.
What you’ll study
Core manufacturing engineering knowledge
You’ll gain a strong foundation in key manufacturing processes, systems and technologies, including:
- manufacturing principles and processes
- engineering design and computer‑aided design (CAD)
- materials engineering
- quality control and assurance
- lean manufacturing and continuous improvement
Alongside technical learning, you’ll study engineering mathematics to support analysis, planning and decision‑making in manufacturing environments.
Applied learning with real‑world relevance
Learn through projects and hands‑on experience
The course includes project‑based units designed to build skills in:
- planning and implementation
- analytical and practical problem‑solving
- applying theory to real manufacturing challenges
This blend of academic learning and hands‑on experience helps you translate technical knowledge into practical, workplace solutions.
Learn using industry‑standard facilities
Train in advanced engineering environments
You’ll have opportunities to work with industry‑standard equipment and modern manufacturing technologies in the College’s Advanced Technologies Centre.
This exposure ensures you develop the confidence and capability to operate in real manufacturing settings — helping you become workplace‑ready by the time you complete the course.
Progress your career in manufacturing engineering
On completion, you’ll be well‑prepared for:
- technical roles within manufacturing organisations
- progression into higher‑level engineering study
- further professional development within the sector
This HNC offers a practical, employer‑aligned route for those looking to build a long‑term career in manufacturing engineering.
Before applying, please check whether you meet the entry requirements under 'Key Information' for this course. Don't hesitate to call us on 01253 504343 if you need assistance.
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£36,400 Average annual salary in this sector
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STEM assured status
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£10.5M Advanced Technology Centre
Entry Requirements
A minimum of 48 UCAS points (excluding Functional Skills) in an appropriate discipline:
- DD from A levels to include mathematics and a technology, engineering or science-based subject
- PPP from Extended Diploma, MP from Diploma, MM from 90 Credit Diploma in appropriate Engineering discipline
- Mathematics GCSE at Grade B/5 or above and English Language GCSE at grade C/4 or above
- Applicants for whom English is not their first language are expected to achieve a minimum 6.0 overall with at least 5.5 in each component
Applicants who are able to demonstrate relevant work/life skills or knowledge will also be considered on an individual basis.
Please note: Where wearing PPE (Personal Protective Equipment) is a mandatory requirement of the course, it is the responsibility of the learner to ensure that they are able to wear such equipment. Further information can be obtained at the IAG session which all applicants are invited to or by calling Course Enquiries on 01253 504343.
Where can this subject lead?
Career progression
Graduates of the HNC are well-prepared to enter the workforce in a variety of technical roles. Skilled engineers are in high demand and if your priority is to secure employment directly after completing this course, then there are ample opportunities available at both a regional and national level.
The qualification also provides a clear progression route into further study offering students the possibility of progressing to a HND in engineering at Level 5 or a full honours degree at Level 6. You may also consider trying to secure a degree apprenticeship with a preferred employer at this point or simply combine future work with part-time study to complete one of these next stage qualifications and further enhance your employability.
Next steps at B&FC
If you complete this HNC successfully you will be ideally placed to progress onto one of our BEng (Hons) Engineering programmes awarded by Lancaster University and delivered here at Blackpool and The Fylde College.
Other study options
You may want to explore the possibility of undertaking a Higher National Diploma at another institution or look to specialise in a specific engineering discipline not offered at B&FC. Options to do this exist in the North West and further afield although we would advise that you check entry requirements to ensure you are eligible to progress.
Employment Opportunities
We have well-developed working relationships with a wide range of engineering employers, through which we help and support learners into sustainable employment. Possible job roles include: production engineer, manufacturing technician, process engineer, quality engineer.
Key information
Qualification obtained
BTEC Higher National Certificate in Manufacturing Engineering for EnglandFees and funding
Visit our Tuition Fees page and Financial Support for Degrees page for more information about fees and funding, including additional financial support for those on low incomes, with dependent children or adults, or with disabilities.
Extra costs and equipment
You will need your own scientific calculator; we recommend the Casio FFX-91ES (costs start at around £15).
Other resources required to achieve the learning outcomes of the programme are provided by the College including access to books, journals and electronic resources.
You should be aware that there may be additional costs to consider such as optional educational visits and photocopying/printing.
Regulation and Accreditation
Accrediting Institution: N/A
Awarding Body: Pearson
Regulatory Body: Office for Students (OfS)
Terms and conditions
Please visit our Student Terms and Conditions page for more information.
What will I learn?
Learning Support - at a glance
- Higher Education Learning Mentors (HELMs)
- One-to-one and group learning support sessions
- Pre-degree preparation workshops
- IT Support
How will I learn?
Blended learning with practical application
The HNC in Manufacturing Engineering combines theory and hands‑on learning, delivered in ways that reflect real engineering practice.
Lectures and practical demonstrations
Teaching is mainly through lectures, where you’ll explore key concepts using:
- presentations and calculations
- engineering case studies
- group discussion and problem‑solving
You’ll also take part in practical demonstrations, with tutors showing how production and testing equipment is used in industry‑relevant scenarios.
Tutorials and academic support
You’ll have access to small‑group and one‑to‑one tutorials, giving you:
- tailored support
- focused guidance before assessments
- clear feedback to help you progress
Online learning with Moodle
The Moodle VLE supports your studies by providing:
- learning materials and resources
- quizzes and formative assessments
- programme documents and assessment schedules
Work‑based learning opportunities
As many students are employed in the industry, the course allows you to apply learning in the workplace where appropriate.
For example, in the Managing an Engineering Project module, your project may be based on a real workplace requirement — helping you link theory directly to practice.
Expert tutors
All tutors involved in the delivery of higher education courses within the College are approved to teach the subjects and modules they deliver.
The approval process ensures that staff delivering a given programme are appropriately qualified and, where appropriate, possess relevant technical and industrial experience and professional practice.
Learning Methods
| Learning Method | Level 4 | Level 5 | Level 6 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Scheduled | 576 | 0 | 0 |
| Independent | 624 | 0 | 0 |
| Placement | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| Total | 1200 | 0 | 0 |
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How will I be assessed?
| Assessment Method | Level 4 | Level 5 | Level 6 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Coursework | 100% | 0% | 0% |
| Exam | 0% | 0% | 0% |
| Practical | 0% | 0% | 0% |