Ulster University Foundation Degree in Engineering (FdEng) with Specialisms (Mechatronics) HLA (Omagh Campus)

Level 5

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Ulster University Foundation Degree in Engineering (FdEng) with Specialisms (Mechatronics) HLA (Omagh Campus)

Level 5

Part-Time

26/27

EXC50037HLA_MEC

Overview

As a Higher Level Apprentice, you will gain the benefits of studying for an in-demand qualification, alongside developing work-based skills at their place of employment to support their learning.

Advance Your Career with the FdEng in Engineering (with Specialisms)

Unlock your potential in the dynamic world of engineering with our FdEng in Engineering (with Specialisms) programme. Tailored to meet the demands of the modern engineering sector, this industry-focused programme equips you with a diverse range of professional knowledge and hands-on technical expertise.

Immerse yourself in cutting-edge topics like Automation and Industry 4.0, while mastering the fundamentals of engineering thorough a broad and balanced range of modules designed to give you a platform to progress in the Engineering field. This programme is designed to provide practical, applied learning experiences that align directly with the needs of the local and regional engineering industries.

With a growing demand for skilled professionals holding Level 4 and 5 qualifications, this programme not only sets you on a path to enter this high-demand field but positions you to thrive and excel in your career. Whether you're designing innovative solutions or optimising complex systems, this qualification is your gateway to becoming a leader in the ever-evolving world of engineering.

Your future in engineering starts here. Are you ready to design your success?

Elevate Your Engineering Career with the FdEng in Engineering: Specialisms in Mechatronics or Manufacturing

Step into the future of engineering with a programme designed to empower you with the skills, knowledge and professional attributes that regional and local engineering companies demand. The FdEng in Engineering focuses on equipping graduates with practical expertise, industry-aligned knowledge and the 21st-century skills necessary to excel in a fast-evolving sector.

Explore Two Distinct Pathways

Mechatronics Pathway: Dive into the world of automation, with advanced study in embedded systems, programming and electrical systems that drives innovation in robotics, smart technologies and interconnected devices.

Manufacturing Pathway: Build expertise in operations management and computer-aided manufacturing (CAM), honing skills that streamline production and optimise engineering processes.

Both pathways combine rigorous study of mathematical and scientific principles with a hands-on, applied approach to developing technical and professional competencies.

A Modern Learning Experience

This programme integrates project-based learning, industry-relevant teaching and assessments that mirror real-world challenges. Gain a deeper understanding of future systems, automation and mechatronics while cultivating critical problem-solving abilities, pragmatism and an innovative mindset.

Graduate Work-Ready

Whether your passion lies in designing intelligent systems or optimising manufacturing processes, this programme ensures you graduate as a confident, work-ready professional, equipped to contribute meaningfully to the engineering landscape.

Whilst the programme structure requires you to work with an employer for four days a week and attend college one day a week, in Year 3 you will undertake a focused Work-Based Learning module which will integrate your practical experience and academic knowledge, enabling you to complete a targeted workplace project. This approach ensures that your learning remains relevant and directly applicable to your chosen field, fostering both personal and professional growth as you progress through your studies.

Your future in engineering begins here. Choose your pathway and engineer your career.

: Year One/Year Two - Level 4 Modules

Automation Principles (Level 4 Module)

Engineering Mathematics (Level 4 Module)

Professional Studies (Level 4 Module)

Engineering Science (Level 4 Module)

Computer-Aided Design (Level 4 Module)

Electronic Principles (Level 4 Module)

Mechatronics and Robotics (Level 5 Module)

Mechanical Systems and Materials (Level 5 Module)

Work Based Learning (Level 5 Module)

Programming and Embedded Systems (Mechatronics Specialism Further Study)

Electrical Systems (Mechatronics Specialism Further Study)

: All modules are Compulsory.

Entrants should have passes in 4 different subjects including a grade C/4 or above in GCSE Maths and English and hold a related Level 3 qualification(s) equating to 56 UCAS points, including one subject from: Mathematics, Further Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry, Technology & Design, Design & Technology, Engineering, Electronics or Double Award Science/Applied Science. BTEC Level 3 awards in Engineering should include Merit in Engineering Principles.

Where an applicant does not hold the formal academic requirements for entry to the programme but can demonstrate relevant experiential learning across a range of industries, they may apply for admission through the College Accreditation of Prior Learning (APL) process. In such cases, contact the Programme Director for the programme who will advise further.

To be eligible to commence study on this HLA Pathway, applicants must have secured full-time paid employment in a relevant industry sector.

International Entry Requirements:

Any applicant whose first language is not English should demonstrate their competence in written and spoken English. Usually, the minimum English language entry requirement is IELTS (academic) of 6.0 (with no band score of less than 5.5 in all four elements of the test).

We accept a wide range of alternative English language examinations and tests so please contact us for an updated list of other accepted tests.

Assessment is varied and linked to industry relevant qualities and will typically include written reports and assignments, CAD drawings, individual and group presentations, class tests, laboratory reports and formal, end-of-semester examinations.

Completion of this Foundation Degree may facilitate progression to higher level roles within the candidates’ own places of work.

On graduating, you may (subject to performance) articulate into year two of an associated Honours Degree at Ulster University (eg BEng Hons Mechatronics, BEng Hons Mechanical and Manufacturing Engineering), provided you meet the entrance criteria.

You also have the option to progress to a part-time ‘Top Up Degree’ in Engineering at SWC, which is accredited by the Open University.

There are a number of alternative Higher Education Institutions offering part-time and full-time top ups to level 6 and above.

Note: It is the responsibility of the applicant to check each University’s admission and progression requirements before enrolling on a Programme at the College.

The Mechatronics Specialism is delivered in the Omagh Campus.

Programme delivery is part-time, over three years. You will study part-time, whilst working in a relevant place of employment in the engineering industry. In the final semester, you will complete a period of work-based learning to complement and consolidate your academic study.

During your course you may be required to purchase course textbooks and incur additional costs for printing, photocopying, and binding. The overall additional costs incurred to support your studies may be in the region of £100 or more per year.

: You are required to:

Comply with College policies and procedures, rules and regulations (available in your Higher Education Student Handbook, on-line via the College website: Policies, Reports and Strategies | South West College and on the College Virtual Learning Environment - VLE).

Submit all coursework and assessments by specified dates. Coursework submitted without consent after the deadline shall not normally be accepted.

Achieve the minimum pass mark of 40% in all modules.

1 Available Session

* The fees quoted are per annum and are payable for each year of the course’s duration and are subject to additional examination fees as per fees policy.