Aeronautical Engineering For England - HNC

Course Code: ET1HE620

DEGREE-LEVEL

Next course dates

Start Date	Location	Duration / Fees
07/09/2026	Bispham Campus	2 Years / £3,609 per year	Apply

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Course Overview

Our HNC in Aeronautical Engineering is an industry-focused qualification designed to provide learners with a solid foundation in the principles and practices of aircraft engineering. Ideal for individuals already working in the aircraft industry who are looking to formalise their knowledge with a nationally recognised qualification as well as those seeking to enter the field, the course blends theory with practical skills relevant to modern aviation technology.

The curriculum covers core subjects such as aerodynamics, aircraft structures, propulsion systems, materials, and aircraft maintenance. Students will also engage with engineering mathematics to ensure a strong analytical basis to support their design and problem-solving activities. A focus on industry standards, safety regulations and sustainability helps to prepare individuals for the regulatory requirements of the sector.

With a strong emphasis on real-world applications, this HNC is widely welcomed by employers and can support career development as well as providing a stepping stones to further study.

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.

Career Options and Progression

Graduates of this 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.

Assessment Methods

Coursework

Most courses are assessed via a combination of coursework and exams – the percentage weighting of each of these is outlined below. Coursework might range from written tasks and assignments to the collation of a portfolio of evidence based around a work placement. Coursework differs from exams in that it is usually non-timed and carried out independently.

Exam

Exams are formal, timed written assessments, carried out in a controlled environment and overseen by one or more invigilators. They assess your grasp of the theory and underpinning knowledge related to your chosen career area. The opposite of practicals, they require you to set out your practical understanding within an academic context. Some courses have no exams – the exam/coursework ratio is outlined below.

Practical

Practical assessments identify your technical ability to apply theory to hands-on tasks in your chosen career area. They can be timed or non-timed and involve observation of your practical skills and competencies, either in a work-based environment or a dedicated College setting that closely resembles the workplace. Practical work-based assessments are supported and carried out by a trained assessor.

Assessment Method	Level 4	Level 5	Level 6
Coursework	0%	0%	0%
Exam	0%	0%	0%
Practical	0%	0%	0%

Course Structure

Teaching and Learning Methods

Scheduled Learning

Scheduled time relates to the time you spend in directed study with the guidance and support of our academic tutors. Scheduled learning can take a variety of forms and will vary from one course to the next, but may include lectures, seminars, tutorials, project supervision, demonstrations, studio or workshop time, fieldwork and external visits.

Independent Study

Higher education courses rely on students undertaking work outside of formal, scheduled sessions and this is generally categorised as independent study. Independent study might include preparation for scheduled sessions, follow-up work, wider reading or practice, completion of assessment tasks and revision.

Placement

Many of the degree programmes at B&FC incorporate opportunities for work placements to provide you with the opportunity to link your studies to relevant professional practice in a real work environment. Our programme teams are able to offer support in securing an appropriate work placement where it forms part of your programme, and will work closely with you during the placement to ensure that the opportunity allows you to develop personally, professionally and academically.

Learning Method	Level 4	Level 5	Level 6
Scheduled
Independent
Placement
Total	0	0	0

Other Costs and Equipment Needed

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.

Expert Tutors

All staff 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.