HIGHER EDUCATION

PROGRAMMESPECIFICATION

HNC Manufacturing Engineering

Version 2: October 2015
Next Review: July 2016

HIGHER EDUCATION PROGRAMME SPECIFICATION

PROGRAMME

1 Programme/Course Title: HNC Manufacturing Engineering
2 Faculty: Construction & Engineering
3 Course Validation Date: 01/09/15
4 UCAS Code: N/A
5 Qualification/Award Title: Pearson BTEC Level 4 HNC Diploma inManufacturing Engineering (QCF)
6 Awarding Body: Pearson
7 Professional Accreditation:
The Higher National qualifications in Manufacturing Engineering have been developed with
career progression and recognition by professional bodies in mind. Thus this development
has been informed by discussions/relevant publications from the Engineering Council UK,
Institution of Incorporated Engineers (IIE), the Occupational Standards Council for
Engineering, the Engineering Professors’ Council and Engineering and Marine Training
Authority (EMTA).
We have added value to this qualification by acquiring recognition from the Engineering
Council UK, the following list is an indication of relevant professional bodies who recognize
this BTEC Higher National in Manufacturing Engineering designed to comply with the
Engineering Council UK’s SARTOR 3 regulations:
  • · The Institution of Incorporated Engineers (IIE)
  • · Institution of Engineering Designers
  • · The Institute of Automotive Engineer Assessors
  • · Society of Operations Engineers (SOE).
Further details of professional body recognition and exemptions are contained in the
publication BTEC Professional Recognition (W001071)
8 Relevant QAA Subject Benchmarking Group:Engineering
9 Mode (ways of studying the programme): PT

PROGRAMME AIMS

10The overall aims of this programme/course are to: meet the needs of industry, commerce and the public services by focusing on:
  • the education and training of manufacturing engineers/technicians who are employed at a professional level in a variety of types of technical work, such as in: electrical, electronic or communication design, manufacture, maintenance and technical services areas of the engineering industry
  • providing opportunities for manufacturing engineers/technicians to achieve a nationally recognised level four vocationally specific qualification
  • providing opportunities for full-time learners to gain a nationally recognised vocationally specific qualification to enter employment as an engineer/technician or progress to higher education vocational qualifications such as a full or part-time degree in manufacturing or mechanical engineering or related area
  • providing opportunities for learners to focus on the development of the higher level skills in a technological and management context
  • providing opportunities for learners to develop a range of skills and techniques and attributes essential for successful performance in working life.
This qualification meets the needs of the above rationale by:
  • developing a range of skills and techniques, personal qualities and attributes essential for successful performance in working life and thereby enable learners to make an immediate contribution to employment at the appropriate professional level
  • preparing for a range of technical and management careers in manufacturing engineering
  • equipping individuals with knowledge, understanding and skills for success in employment in the manufacturing engineering-based industry
  • providing specialist studies relevant to individual vocations and professions in which learners are working or intend to seek employment in manufacturing and its related industries
  • enabling progression to or count towards an undergraduate degree or further professional qualification in manufacturing engineering or related area
  • providing a significant educational base for progression to Incorporated Engineer level.

PROGRAMME LEARNING OUTCOMES

(a) KNOWLEDGE AND UNDERSTANDING
11The Learning Outcomes are:
Individual learning outcomes are applicable to each unit of this programme
For the 3 core units
Engineering Science (L4)
1 Be able to determine the behavioural characteristics of elements of static engineering
systems
2 Be able to determine the behavioural characteristics of elements of dynamic engineering
systems
3 Be able to apply DC theory to solve electrical and electronic engineering problems
4 Be able to apply single phase AC theory to solve electrical and electronic engineering
problems.
Analytical Methods for Engineers (L4)
1 Be able to analyse and model engineering situations and solve problems using algebraic
methods
2 Be able to analyse and model engineering situations and solve problems using trigonometric
methods
3 Be able to analyse and model engineering situations and solve problems using calculus
4 Be able to analyse and model engineering situations and solve problems using statistics and
probability.
Project Design, Implementation and Evaluation (L5)
1 Be able to formulate a project
2 Be able to implement the project within agreed procedures and to specification
3 Be able to evaluate the project outcomes
4 Be able to present the project outcomes.
A range of optional specialist units may be taken.
All optional units are not shown here and some may be changed to suit individual cohorts of students after discussion with the curriculum team and representative employers. A mixture of level 4 and 5 units make up an HNC Diploma.The Pearson BTEC Level 4 HNC programme must contain a minimum of 65 credits at level 4.
Health safety & Risk Assessment (L4)
1 Be able to select and apply safe working procedures to engineering operations
2 Understand the nature and use of current health and safety legislation
3 Be able to analyse engineering activities for the assessment of risk
4 Be able to manage and minimise risk to life, property and engineering activities within an
industrial environment.
Engineering Design (L5)
1 Be able to prepare a design specification to meet customer requirements
2 Be able to analyse and evaluate possible design solutions and prepare a final design report
3 Understand how computer-based technology is used in the engineering design process.
Manufacturing Process (L4)
1 Understand the use of conventional machining processes and techniques for generating
geometrical forms for a given component specification
2 Understand the use of moulding and shaping processes for a given component specification
3 Understand the use of less conventional machining techniques for a given componentspecification.
Business Management Techniques for Engineers (L4)
1 Know how to manage work activities to achieve organisational objectives
2 Be able to select and apply costing systems and techniques
3 Understand the key functions of financial planning and control
4 Be able to apply project planning and scheduling methods to an engineering project.
Computer Aided Design and Manufacture (L5)
1 Be able to produce a component drawing suitable for transfer onto a CAM system and
produce a simple 3D surface
2 Be able to transfer data generated in CAD to a CAM system for subsequent machining
3 Be able to simulate the cutter paths on a CAM system to optimise the machining sequences
4 Understand how to transfer a generated tape file to a CNC machine and produce the
component.
Materials Engineering (L4)
1 Be able to determine the properties and selection criteria of materials from tests and data
sources
2 Understand the relationships between manufacturing processes and material behaviour
3 Be able to select suitable materials and processing methods for a specific product
4 Understand the in-service causes of failure of engineering materials.
12The Teaching and Learning Strategies are:
Pearson does not define the mode of study for BTEC HNC Diploma qualifications. Centres
are free to offer the qualifications using any mode of delivery that meets the needs of their
learners.Here at Sunderland College this may be through traditional classroom teaching (practical and theory), open learning, distance learning or a combination of these. Whatever mode of delivery is used, we will ensure that you, the learner has appropriate access to the resources identified in the specifications and to the subjectspecialists delivering the units. This is particularly important for learners studying for thequalification through open or distance learning. Full guidance on Pearson’s policies on distance assessment. and electronic assessment.
Learners studying for the qualification on a part-time basis bring with them a wealth ofexperience that will be utilized to maximum effect by our tutors and assessors. Assessmentinstruments based on the learners work environment will be encouraged. In planning thisprogramme we have aimed to enhance the vocational nature of the BTEC Higher Nationalqualification by:
1)liaising with employers to ensure that the programme is relevant to the specific needs of the learners
2)accessing and using non-confidential data and documents from learners workplaces
3)linking with company-based/workplace training programmes
4)making full use of the variety of experience of work and life that learners bring to the programme
The specifications contain a balance of practical skill development and knowledge requirements, some of which can be theoretical in nature. Tutors and assessors will ensure that appropriate links are made between theory and practice and that the knowledge base is applied to the sector. To do this we are required to develop relevant and up-to-date teaching materials that allow learners to
apply their learning to actual events and activity within the sector. Maximum use will be
made of the learners previous experience.
13The Assessment Strategies are:
Learners must pass all 8 units on their programme of learning to be awarded a BTEC HNC Diploma. The assessment of BTEC HNC qualifications is criterion-referenced and centres are required to assess the learners’ evidence against published learning outcomes and assessment criteria. All units will be individually graded as pass, merit or distinction.. To achieve aPass grade for the unit learners must meet the assessment criteria set out in the specifications.This gives transparency to the assessment process and provides for the establishment ofnational standards for each qualification.
The units in BTEC HNC qualifications all have a standard format which is designedto provide clear guidance on the requirements of the qualification for learners, assessors andthose responsible for monitoring national standards.
(B) SKILLS AND OTHER ATTRIBUTES
14The Learning Outcomes are:
Learners will be expected to develop the following skills during the programme of study the ability to:
a)analyse and synthesise a range of concepts and summarise information critically
b)read and use appropriate literature with a full and critical understanding
c)think independently, research into and solve problems
d)insight and judgement in relation to the margins and consequences of error
e)recognise the moral and ethical issues of engineering, environmental and scientific enquiry and experimentation and appreciate the need for ethical standards and professional codes of conduct
f)design, plan, conduct and report investigations and communicate the results of their study and other work accurately and reliably using a range of specialist techniques
g)use their knowledge, understanding and skills to evaluate and formulate evidence-based arguments critically and identify solutions to clearly defined problems of a routine nature and some requiring innovation and creativity
h)apply complex theories to practical realistic work situations
i)apply their subject-related and transferable skills in contexts where the scope of the task and thecriteria for decisions are generally well defined but where some personal responsibility and initiative are required
j)develop an appreciation of the interdisciplinary nature of building services engineering, and of theskills required to work in non-adversarial teams with other professions in construction
k)ability to take responsibility to manage and direct their own and where appropriate the activities of others
l)identify and address their own learning needs within defined contexts, recognise their own learning style and undertake guided further learning in new areas.
15 The Teaching and Learning Strategies are:
As above
16 The Assessment Strategies are:
As above
A copy of the full specification of each unit, its learning outcomes and criteria for grading is available at or from your tutor

PROGRAMME STRUCTURES

Reference Points: NICATS level descriptors; Subject Benchmark Statements, QAA Qualifications Framework; Awarding Body Specifications
17 Explanation of routes, compulsory and optional modules:
The Pearson BTEC Level 4 HNC in Manufacturing Engineering (QCF) is aqualification with a minimum of 120 credits of which 50 are mandatory core.The BTEC Level 4 HNC programme must contain a minimum of 65 credits at level 4.
The BTEC HNC Diploma in Manufacturing Engineering is an8-unit qualification of which 3 are core units.


18 Opportunities for work placement/study abroad:
It is recognised that a high percentage of students attending this course will already be in employment. However, any opportunities for work placement or employment for any student not already in work will be a matter of priority and all students will be given the opportunity to take up such placement or employment within the industry.

ADMISSIONS

19 In order to gain entry to this programme/course you must satisfy the course entry requirements listed below (guidance is available from college staff prior to enrolment):
Sunderland College will review the profile of qualifications and/or experience held by applicants,
considering whether this profile shows an ability to progress to a Level 4 qualification. For
learners who have recently been in education, the entry profile is likely to include one of the
following:
  • a BTEC Level 3 Diploma or Extended Diploma in Engineering, Manufacturing or Mechanical or in some cases Electrical/Electronic Engineering.
  • an AVCE/Advanced GNVQ in an appropriate vocational area (e.g. in Engineering)
  • a GCE Advanced level profile, which demonstrates strong performance in a relevant subject or an adequate performance in more than one GCE subject. This profile is likely to be supported by GCSE grades at A* to C
  • other related Level 3 qualifications
  • an Access to Higher Education Certificate awarded by an approved further education institution
  • related work experience
  • Mature learners may present a more varied profile of achievement that is likely to include extensive work experience (paid and/or unpaid) and/or achievement of a range of professional qualifications in their work sector.
Knowledge/skills: Engineering (knowledge of the manufacturing industry is essential)
Personal skills: Motivation and commitment
Literacy/numeracy/IT skills: A high standard of key/common skills is required or can be
attained on the course
Physical skills/attributes: N/A
Other prerequisites:
Co-requisites :
Pearson’s policy regarding access to its qualifications is that:
1)the qualifications should be available to everyone who is capable of reaching the required standards
2)the qualifications should be free from any barriers that restrict access and progression
3)there should be equal opportunities for all wishing to access the qualifications.
Sunderland College are required to recruit learners to BTEC qualifications with integrity. This will includeensuring that applicants have appropriate information and advice about the qualifications and
that the qualification will meet their needs. Sunderland College will take appropriate steps to assess eachapplicants potential and make a professional judgement about their ability to successfully
complete the programme of study and achieve the qualification. This assessment will need to
take account of the support available to the learner within the centre during their programme of
study and any specific support that might be necessary to allow the learner to access the
assessment for the qualification. Sunderland College will also show regard for Pearson’s policy on
learners with particular requirements.
For learners who have not recently been in education Sunderland College will need to review the profile of qualifications and/or experience held by applicants, considering whether this profile shows an ability to progress to a Level 4 qualification.

PROGRESSION

20To qualify for this award students are required to pass all compulsory modules and
to gain at least 120 credits a minimum of 65 credits must be at level 4
21Students may choose to leave the programme with an interim award as long as they
fulfil the following necessary requirements.

22Students from this programme may progress to further study, eg:

HND Diploma in Manufacturing Engineering or on to a Degree.

23Students from this programme may pursue a variety of careers, eg :

Technician, Supervisor, Management

QUALITY MANAGEMENT AND ENHANCEMENT

Sunderland College uses a wide range of mechanisms to assure and enhance the quality of the programme:
  • Regular evaluation of programmes by students, staff and employers
  • Annual monitoring of programmes and modules
  • Annual self-assessment of programmes
  • Peer observation of teaching
  • Internal inspection
  • Staff development
INDICATORS OF QUALITY:
24OFSTED Inspection Outcomes: N/A
25 QAA (RCHE) Outcomes: QAA Review scheduled for Spring’16The Summative review of City of Sunderland College carried out in June 2011 As a result of its investigations, the Summative review team (the team) considers that there can be confidence in the College's management of its responsibilities, as set out in its partnership agreements, for the standards of the awards it offers on behalf of its awarding bodies. The team also considers that there can be confidence in the College's management of its responsibilities, as set out in its partnership agreements, for the quality of learning opportunities it offers. The team considers that reliance can be placed on the accuracy and completeness of the information that the College is responsible for publishing about itself and the programmes it delivers.25Prizes awarded to students: Student of the Year Award27 Professional accreditation:

LEARNING SUPPORT/RESOURCES

26Students will be offered a range of academic and personal support as follows (please specify):
InductionAccess to electronic databases
Personal TutorsE-mail
Programme HandbookLearning resources (specify):
Module Guides
Library skills induction
Library facilities
Learning resource centre
Laboratories
28 You will/will not* be required to participate in residential experiences.
27You will/will not* be required to attend educational visits.
28You will/will not* be required to undertake work experience and it will/will not*
form part of your final assessment.
SPECIAL LEARNING SUPPORT
During a course of study students may be entitled to receive special learning support to enable them to achieve their qualifications (advice is available from college staff prior to enrolment and during the course). Any application for an HE Disabled Student Allowance (DSA) should be made to the college’s Student Services section.
PERSONAL FINANCIAL EXPENDITURE
30 This programme/course may involve students in personal financial
expenditure only as follows:
  • Tuition fee
  • Registration to another body or bodies, eg a professional institution
  • Purchase of stationery
  • Purchase of textbooks
  • Purchase of equipment
  • Purchase of consumables

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