Need Help Applying for a course?
Student Handbook
Funding Support for Students
The BTEC Level 3 Foundation Diploma in Engineering is a one year, full-time programme of study designed to equip learners with the knowledge and understanding required for success in a range of mechanical and electrical/electronic engineering occupations. The qualification is also suitable for learners who have not yet decided on a particular engineering specialism and who wish to gain a broader understanding of engineering.This course is equivalent to 1½ A’Levels.
Students will gain a foundation in the core disciplines of mechanical and electrical/electronic engineering. College facilities, such as the new state of the art Idea Centre with 3D printers and the latest prototyping technology, provide an opportunity for project-based learning. With a fully equipped Robotics Lab, Hydraulics/Pneumatics Lab and Workshop with the latest cutting edge technology, students will gain an understanding of industry standard equipment.
Engineering PrinciplesLearners apply mathematical principles to solve electrical-, electronic- and mechanical-based engineering problems. Assessed via externally set examination.Delivery of Engineering Processes Safely as a Team. Prepares you for safe working in an advanced manufacturing setting by understanding the legislation, hazards and risks and required measures used to control.Engineering Product Design and ManufactureLearners will explore engineering product design and manufacturing processes and will complete activities that consider function, sustainability, materials, form and other factors. Applied Commercial and Quality Principles in EngineeringLearners explore commercial engineering, for example, cost control, quality systems and value management, which is used by engineering organisations to create value.
Welding TechnologyLearners examine the principles and technology used in common welding processes and produce welded joints in differing materials and welding positions.Pneumatic and Hydraulic SystemsLearners explore the safe operation of pneumatic and hydraulic systems, including simulation of circuits using software and practical system assembly and testing. Computer Aided Design in Engineering Learners develop two-dimensional (2D) detailed drawings and three-dimensional (3D) models using a computer-aided design (CAD) system.
Four GCSEs at Grades A*-C including Maths or BTEC Level 2 Certificate or Diploma in a related subject (Merit or Distinction grade) with Essential Skills. Entry is subject to a successful interview.
Projects, coursework, assignments and an external examination will offer opportunities to achieve Pass, Merit and Distinction criteria. Success will be tracked though the year to form a final grade, giving UCAS points in the same way as A Level grades.
This qualification is equivalent to 1½ A Levels and upon completion learners can choose to progress to BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma in Engineering.Completion of the Level 3 Extended Diploma or other level 3 qualifications will allow progression to Higher Education (Foundation Degree or Honours Degree courses) in areas such as: Mechanical Engineering; Electrical/Electronic Engineering; Mechatronic Engineering; Computer Science. Alternatively, learners may seek direct employment or progress to employment through the Higher Level Apprenticeship route (HLA). Common areas of employment include CAD Draughtsperson and Engineering Technician.SWC specifically offers part-time and full-time Foundation Degrees and HLA’s in Manufacture and Mechatronics as progression routes from the Pearson BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma in Engineering.SWC also offers a level 6 Honours Degree in Engineering as progression, on successful completion of the Foundation Degree.
Students will be given the opportunity to learn about the many different roles available in the engineering Industry through site visits and engineering talks from high calibre industry leaders.
P3917DF10A
Session Code
2 Year(s)
Duration
Further Education
Mode of Study
16
Hours per Week
34
Number of Weeks
Interview Required
25/26
Academic Year
01/09/2025
Start Date
Subject to Timetable
Day/s
ciara.donnelly@swc.ac.uk
Coordinator(s)
Total Annual Fee N/A
Total Concessionary Fee N/A
Fees Payable Each Year
**Am I eligible for concessionary fees?
P3917EF10A
claire.burns@swc.ac.uk
BTEC Level 4 Higher National Certificate in Engineering (General Engineering) - RQF
Skills for Life and Work Level 1 Engineering
Ulster University FdEng Engineering with Specialisms (Manufacturing Engineering) HLA (Dungannon Campus)