Mechanical Engineering
Mechanical Engineering
BTEC Level 3 Award in Mechanical Engineering
Interested in engineering? Join us to kickstart a career in refinery and storage, Ministry of Defence, higher apprenticeships in the Armed Forces or the mechanical industries.
Fees are per academic year, subject to change
£930.00
Is this course right for me?
This course provides a broad foundation in the knowledge and skills required for aspiring engineering technicians, combining theoretical understanding with practical application.
Learn how to present technical information through technical drawing, 2D CAD, and report writing alongside working practices such as hazard awareness, risk assessment, and legal responsibilities.
Learners will apply mathematical concepts to real engineering problems, and explore key mechanical principles including forces, motion, and energy. The course also examines the properties and applications of a range of engineering materials, with an introduction to electronic devices and circuits.
Upon successfully completing the first year of the course, learners will be awarded a Level 3 Award in Advanced Manufacturing Engineering, equivalent to one A-level. Successful completion will allow progression to the Level 3 Diploma in Mechanical Engineering Level 3 Diploma in year two, equivalent to two A-levels.
This course normally runs one day per week, for 34 weeks, starting in September.
- Two GCSEs at grade C or above to include English Language/First Language Welsh and Mathematics
- Each application is considered on individual merit
- Entry is subject to attending a course meeting or informal interview
Units to be studied to include:
- Communication for Engineering Technicians
Develop the communication skills needed by engineering technicians – learn how to present technical information clearly using drawings, sketches and digital tools such as 2D computer-aided design (CAD). The unit also develops the ability to write technical reports and communicate effectively using correct engineering terminology.
- Mathematics for Engineering Technicians
Build on the mathematics you studied at GCSE and apply it to real engineering problems. Topics include algebra, trigonometry, geometry, statistics and an introduction to basic calculus. The focus is on developing practical mathematical skills that support engineering work.
- Mechanical Principles of Engineering Systems
Explore how mechanical systems work – You will learn how forces act on materials and structures, how motion and energy are analysed using Newton’s laws, and how engineering systems respond to heat, pressure and fluid movement.
- Properties and Applications of Engineering Materials
Understand the materials used in modern engineering and how to choose the right material for different applications. You will Study metals, polymers, ceramics and composites, exploring their structure, properties and behaviour. The unit also looks at material processing, smart materials, and common ways materials can fail in engineering products.
- Principles and Applications of Electronic Devices and Circuits
Gain a practical introduction to electronics -You will learn how key electronic components such as diodes and transistors work, and build and test circuits using both analogue and digital principles. The unit also introduces logic gates, integrated circuits and computer-based simulation software used in electronic design.
- Health and Safety in the Engineering Workplace
Learn how to work safely in an engineering environment – explore common workplace hazards, understand key health and safety legislation, and learn how to carry out risk assessments. The unit also covers how to report and record accidents and incidents, helping understand responsibilities and legal obligations in the workplace.
- Continuous assessment during the course
- Written examination
- Completion of a final major project
This course can lead to numerous career opportunities including: Tool Maker, Quality Control Technician, Mechanical Maintenance Engineer, Composites Manufacturer, Production Engineering Improver, Production Engineer, Machinist, Materials Testing Engineer, Designer, CAD Technician, Health and Safety Manager, Project Development Manager, Process Operator.
Please note that some universities will require A-level Mathematics as part of their entry requirements.
- Stationery - you will be told about any specific items before you start the course
- Technical drawing equipment - you will be told about any specific items before you start the course
- A scientific calculator
- You may be eligible for funding. Find out more on our student finance page
Any costs above are approximate and may change. For information on refunds and course cancellations please see the fee policy.
What are the entry requirements?
- Two GCSEs at grade C or above to include English Language/First Language Welsh and Mathematics
- Each application is considered on individual merit
- Entry is subject to attending a course meeting or informal interview
What will I learn?
Units to be studied to include:
- Communication for Engineering Technicians
Develop the communication skills needed by engineering technicians – learn how to present technical information clearly using drawings, sketches and digital tools such as 2D computer-aided design (CAD). The unit also develops the ability to write technical reports and communicate effectively using correct engineering terminology.
- Mathematics for Engineering Technicians
Build on the mathematics you studied at GCSE and apply it to real engineering problems. Topics include algebra, trigonometry, geometry, statistics and an introduction to basic calculus. The focus is on developing practical mathematical skills that support engineering work.
- Mechanical Principles of Engineering Systems
Explore how mechanical systems work – You will learn how forces act on materials and structures, how motion and energy are analysed using Newton’s laws, and how engineering systems respond to heat, pressure and fluid movement.
- Properties and Applications of Engineering Materials
Understand the materials used in modern engineering and how to choose the right material for different applications. You will Study metals, polymers, ceramics and composites, exploring their structure, properties and behaviour. The unit also looks at material processing, smart materials, and common ways materials can fail in engineering products.
- Principles and Applications of Electronic Devices and Circuits
Gain a practical introduction to electronics -You will learn how key electronic components such as diodes and transistors work, and build and test circuits using both analogue and digital principles. The unit also introduces logic gates, integrated circuits and computer-based simulation software used in electronic design.
- Health and Safety in the Engineering Workplace
Learn how to work safely in an engineering environment – explore common workplace hazards, understand key health and safety legislation, and learn how to carry out risk assessments. The unit also covers how to report and record accidents and incidents, helping understand responsibilities and legal obligations in the workplace.
Can I do this course in Welsh?
How will I be assessed?
- Continuous assessment during the course
- Written examination
- Completion of a final major project
What can I do next?
This course can lead to numerous career opportunities including: Tool Maker, Quality Control Technician, Mechanical Maintenance Engineer, Composites Manufacturer, Production Engineering Improver, Production Engineer, Machinist, Materials Testing Engineer, Designer, CAD Technician, Health and Safety Manager, Project Development Manager, Process Operator.
Please note that some universities will require A-level Mathematics as part of their entry requirements.
Do I need to bring/buy any equipment?
- Stationery - you will be told about any specific items before you start the course
- Technical drawing equipment - you will be told about any specific items before you start the course
- A scientific calculator
- You may be eligible for funding. Find out more on our student finance page
Are there any additional costs?
Additional Information
Additional information
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