ENGINEERING (TECHNICAL DESIGN & MANUFACTURE) Level 5 Foundation Degree Higher Level Apprenticeship

Level 5
Higher Level Apprenticeship
Newry Campus
The Open University

Overview

The Higher Level Apprenticeship in Engineering (Technical Design and Manufacture) is designed to provide students with specialised knowledge and practical skills in the field of technical design and manufacturing which will equip students for a successful career within the industry.

This three year Higher Level Apprenticeship will equip learners with the ability to understand, utilise and develop the skills needed whilst working in the technical design and manufacturing engineering industry. The course will build transferable skills in communication, teamwork, and the ability to self-reflect.

Students will study 80 credits per year over three years and are required to attend SRC's Newry Campus during semester time, for one full day per week. The remaining four days will be based with an employer. Students are required to engage in independent study also.

All staff delivering on this programme are highly experienced with an extensive level of skillset across all engineering disciplines.

SRC HE Attendance Guidelines

SRC OU Admissions Guidelines

SRC OU Assessment Handbook

SRC OU Extenuating Circumstances Procedures

SRC OU RPL Guidelines

SRC Student Protection Plan

SRC Regulations for Validated Awards

The over-riding consideration in admitting applicants to this course, is evidence that the learner is likely to be able to complete the course satisfactorily.

Attendance at Individual or Group Pre-Entry Advice Sessions (IPEAS and GPEAS) may be required. These interviews may take place either on campus, via telephone or video call (Microsoft teams) and will play an important role in place allocation.

Applicants must be at least 18 years of age on or before 1st July 2024.

Applicants must have attained a minimum of 56 UCAS points, this must be achieved from a minimum of 1 A2 subject, (combinations of AS levels will not be accepted) or equivalent i.e., Subsidiary Diploma, Adult Access in Science. Students with Level 3 NVQ qualifications will be considered on their merits but may be required to undertake additional assessment in Maths and English before being accepted onto the course.
Applicants must have attained at least 15 points at Level 2 or above (e.g. GCSE) or have alternative approved qualifications. In addition, applicants must provide evidence of competence in written and spoken English Language. For entry to this programme, applicants should have attained a C grade in GCSE English language and a C grade in GCSE Maths (or equivalent).
For those entering a Higher Level Apprenticeships (HLA), employers may further enhance the entry criteria at their discretion. All applicants for HLAs will be interviewed by prospective employers to decide their suitability prior to being employed by a company. Each the applicant must secure employment with a Northern Ireland based company with a minimum contract of 21 hours. Entrance to HLAs is subject to meeting DfE Operational requirements.
Applicants who do not meet the criteria outlined above but have evidence of substantial knowledge or relevant industrial experience and skills, which has not been formally assessed, should refer to the College’s Accreditation of Prior Experience and Learning (APEL) Policy.

Please note that applicants progressing to higher education courses at Level 4 and above in the College or UK Universities may require a specific GCSE/ A-Level profile. In some cases, the Essential Skills in Literacy and Numeracy may not be a suitable alternative to a GCSE. It is the responsibility of the applicant to check each University’s progression requirements before enrolling on a course at the College.

To find out more about the application process for Higher Level Apprenticeships please see Information on Higher Level Apprenticeships.

Modules of study will include:

Engineering Mathematics
CAD Techniques
Electrical & Electronic Fundamentals
Pneumatics & Hydraulics
Professional Studies
Engineering Design
Engineering Materials & Applications
Manufacturing Technologies & Processes
CNC/CAM
Mechanical Fundamentals
BIT & Project Management
Work-Based Learning

Some modules are assessed entirely through coursework while others are assessed through a combination of coursework and written examination.

This Higher Level Apprenticeship is FREE and fully funded by the Department for the Economy.

On successful completion of the course, students may wish to progress onto the BEng (Hons) Level 6 (Top-Up) Degree in Engineering offered at our Newry campus.

This course will open up a range of diverse career opportunities in the field of technical design and manufacturing. Career paths will depend on your specific interests, specialisation, and industry preferences but some potential options may include: