Course overview
Stephen Brown, Teesside University Online Learning
Hear from Stephen Brown and learn more about studying engineering maths with Teesside University online learning in engineering.
The Higher National Certificate (HNC) Process Engineering by Flexible Open Learning provides you with a programme of study over a range of disciplines to help you develop skills to progress your career through employment or further education at degree level. This is a Teesside University award delivered under licence from Edexcel by Teesside University Open Learning (Engineering).
What does by flexible open learning mean?
- Open learning – open learning is suitable for those who are unable to attend conventional classroom-based courses. So, if you work on an oil rig in the Caribbean or in pipeline construction in a desert, you can study at your own pace at a location suitable to you.
- Flexible study – you work at your own pace. But typically, a Higher National Certificate takes between two and three years. You must complete the course within five years and you must do at least two 15-credit modules a year (30 credits in total).
- Learning resources – we provide the course materials through our e-learning site. You are given user-friendly guides, explanations, self-assessment questions and answers to help your study. If there is practical work involved in a module we loan you a special practical kit to do it at home.
- Tutor support – you are allocated a tutor for each module. The tutor grades your tutor-marked assessments and provides feedback through the online site. Your tutor is also available to contact by phone, email or (by prior arrangement) in person to help you with any problems that you have with the work.
- Assessments – you are assessed by a series of in-course tutor-marked assessments. The number of assessments varies across the modules. You complete the assessment and submit your answers through the online site.
Application dates
- Ongoing
The HNC programme is a nationally recognised qualification awarded under licence from Pearson.
Course details
Course structure
Core level 4 modules
You experience the process of carrying out a design project, enabling you to appreciate that design involves harmonising key parameters and blending them into the design solution, and to produce a design report. You look at each stage of the design process including client brief, planning, design specification, design report and evaluation.
This is a distance learning module with all learning material being accessed via the Virtual Learning Environment (VLE).
You gain the fundamental analytical knowledge and techniques needed to successfully complete the core modules of higher national engineering programmes. The module is intended as a base for the further study of analytical methods and mathematics, needed for more advanced option modules.
You use fundamental algebra, trigonometry, calculus, statistics and probability, for the analysis, modelling and solution of realistic engineering problems at higher national level.
This is a distance learning module with all learning material being accessed via the Virtual Learning Environment (VLE).
You are introduced to the fundamental laws and applications of the physical sciences within engineering and how to apply this knowledge to find solutions to a variety of engineering problems.
You cover international system of units, interpreting data, static and dynamic forces, fluid mechanics and thermodynamics, material properties and failure, and AC/DC circuit theories.
This is a distance learning module with all learning material being accessed via the Virtual Learning Environment (VLE).
Fundamentals of Thermodynamics and Heat Engines (TUOLE)
The majority of the engines used in the world today to generate power or to provide transportation are either gas turbines, steam systems or internal combustion engines, all of which use thermodynamic processes to generate the power required. You are introduced to the principles and laws of thermodynamics and heat transfer and then shown how they can be applied to engineering systems.
You cover system definition, the fundamental laws of thermodynamics and the application of the non-flow and steady flow energy equations using the ideal gas equations and steam tables. You are introduced to the different mechanisms of heat transfer and look at the performance of heat exchangers before concluding with an investigation of heat engine cycles, principally those used in the internal combustion engines.
This is a distance learning module with all learning material being accessed via the Virtual Learning Environment (VLE).
Instrumentation and Control Principles (TUOLE)
You are introduced to the principles of instrumentation and control engineering and how to apply this knowledge to find solutions to a variety of engineering problems related to process measurement and control systems.
You look at sensors and transducers, signal transmission, condition and conversion, control systems, process loop tuning, valves and actuators, control valve selection and sizing.
This is a distance learning module with all learning material being accessed via the Virtual Learning Environment (VLE).
Managing a Professional Engineering Project (TUOLE)
You look at the approach required to identify the best solution to a specified engineering need. You are introduced to some of the core tools and methodologies available to engineers to maximise their chances of bringing an engineering project to a successful conclusion; meeting the specification, on cost, on time and performed in an ecologically and ethically sound manner. You are guided through the management activities needed to deliver a major engineering project. Rather than considering the details of the design solution, the analysis you undertake relates to the management of the project rather than the detail of the engineering design solution. You consider the duties and responsibilities of a professional engineer working in our society.
This is a distance learning module with all learning material being accessed via the Virtual Learning Environment (VLE).
And two optional level 4 modules
Analytical Instrumentation (TUOLE)
You discuss modern techniques of detecting variables in industrial processes. These techniques ensure that the measurement, or sampled quantity, is representative of the measure. You also develop an understanding of modern measurement principles and recognition of how these concepts are applied in the design of commercial instruments for the measurement of both analytical and chemical composition variables.
This is a distance learning module with all learning material being accessed via the Virtual Learning Environment (VLE).
Applications of Pneumatics and Hydraulics (TUOLE)
You gain an understanding of fluid power systems in modern industry by investigating pneumatic and hydraulic diagrams, examining the characteristics of components and equipment, and evaluating the applications of pneumatics and hydraulics.
This is a distance learning module with all learning material being accessed via the Virtual Learning Environment (VLE).
You apply the principles of fluid mechanics and the techniques used to predict the behaviour of fluids in engineering applications. You look at the forces exerted by a static fluid on immersed surfaces, viscosity, the flow of fluids through pipelines and around bluff bodies and examines hydraulic machines.
This is a distance learning module with all learning material being accessed via the Virtual Learning Environment (VLE).
Heat Transfer and Combustion (TUOLE)
You develop knowledge of the principles of heat transfer and combustion and the associated empirical relationships to enable you to solve practical problems and be able to produce a specification for practical engineering equipment.
This is a distance learning module with all learning material being accessed via the Virtual Learning Environment (VLE).
Measurement of Process Variables (TUOLE)
You investigate the principles of measurement of pressure, flow, temperature and level and to describe and assess the performance of the associated measuring systems and instruments.
This is a distance learning module with all learning material being accessed via the Virtual Learning Environment (VLE).
Programmable Logic Controllers (TUOLE)
You investigate how programmable logic controllers (PLCs) and industrial robots can be programmed to successfully implement automated engineering solutions.
You cover PLC system operational characteristics, different types of programming languages, types of robots and cell safety features.
You programme PLCs and robotic manipulators to achieve a set task, describe the types and uses of PLCs and robots available, write simple PLC programs, and program industrial robots with straightforward commands and safety factors.
This is a distance learning module with all learning material being accessed via the Virtual Learning Environment (VLE).
Modules offered may vary.
How you learn
The course is delivered through our e-learning site. You are provided with a self-contained comprehensive study pack for each of the modules. Each module consists of a folder or folders containing a series of lessons grouped into topics. Each lesson has an introduction, your aims, study advice, self-assessment questions and a summary.
It is important that you realise that open learning study requires a considerable degree of self-discipline. You must be prepared to devote both time and effort to studying alongside other commitments you may have.
Each module is supported through e-learning@tees.ac.uk.
How you are assessed
The module leaning outcomes are assessed through tutor marked assignments (TMAs). Some of the units also require practical work - we provide additional software and/or practical kit for this. After you have completed the assessment for a module, your tutor will arrange an exit interview which enables them to authenticate your work and confirm the grade. These interviews can be done in person, by phone or Skype.
TMAs are a means of continuous assessment. They contain a series of questions which can be used to satisfy the learning outcomes of the module. The TMAs for the module are available to download from the module online elearning site.
All completed answers for the TMAs should be submitted through the online site, elearning@tees. Your module tutor will grade your answers and provide feedback through elearning@tees.
Our Disability Services team provide an inclusive and empowering learning environment and have specialist staff to support disabled students access any additional tailored resources needed. If you have a specific learning difficulty, mental health condition, autism, sensory impairment, chronic health condition or any other disability please contact a Disability Services as early as possible.
Find out more about our disability services
Find out more about financial support
Find out more about our course related costs
Entry requirements
Entry requirements
You should have three GCSEs at grade 4 or above (or equivalent) including maths, plus one of the following qualifications which must include level 3 maths covering the subjects of Algebra, trigonometry and calculus (see FME bridging module if you have not studied level 3 maths):
- at least one A level in an appropriate subject
- BTEC National Certificate in an appropriate engineering discipline
- BTEC National Diploma in an appropriate engineering discipline
- Access to HE in Engineering
- any other Level 3 equivalent UK or international qualification in an appropriate subject
If you already have qualifications at Level 4 (or above) and you wish to apply for Recognition of Prior Certified Learning (RPCL) then use the link here.
The maximum registration period to complete a HNC by open learning is five years. You are required by the award regulations to successfully complete at least two modules (30 credits) in each year but it is possible to complete a HNC in a shorter period by successfully completing more than two modules a year.
Bridging module
There are bridging modules available. A Level 3 maths bridging module Foundation Mathematics for Engineers.
References
We don't require references if you are applying to study through open learning.
Certificates
You must include your qualification certificates when applying. We look for a Level 3 maths qualification such as an AS level, BTEC, NC or equivalent for direct entry to the HNC.
English language requirements
If English is not your first language and you haven't undertaken your final two years of schooling in English, you must demonstrate capability in English at a standard equivalent to the levels below:
- Common European Framework of Reference for Languages level B2
- GCSE English language grade C
- PTE 51
- IELTS 5.5 - reading and writing must be at 5.5 (or equivalent).
For general information please see our overview of entry requirements
You can gain considerable knowledge from work, volunteering and life. Under recognition of prior learning (RPL) you may be awarded credit for this which can be credited towards the course you want to study.
Find out more about RPL
Employability
Career opportunities
Students who complete this course can progress to an HND or directly into the second year of an appropriate degree at the University. Please note the degree is not offered by distance learning but most are available on day release attending the University on a weekly basis.
This course provides the skills and knowledge needed to gain employment within the process and related industries in the area of management.
The qualification provides the opportunity to seek career development into a senior position in national and international companies.
Fees
Course costs
For a Higher National Certificate (HNC) you study eight modules at £495 for each module. For the Higher National Diploma (HND) you study a maximum of 16 modules, again at £495 each. You usually pay for one module at a time. Some modules are subject to availability.
If you join the course having completed no appropriate HNC modules previously, the total cost of an HNC is currently £3,960 for the eight modules required and an HND is another £3,960 on top of this for the additional eight modules you will need to study. All payments for modules must be made through the Online Shop. The link will be provided in your offer letter.
Supplementary materials
Practical kits - several of the electronic modules require practical work to be done. Teesside University open learning in engineering has developed practical kits to enable you to complete this work at home. If you are studying directly with us you are loaned these kits as required for no extra charge (except for the return postal costs).
Software - some HNC modules require you to use specific software. Wherever possible we use free software that can be downloaded once the module is paid for. For example Business Management Techniques requires Microsoft Project and Engineering Design requires AutoCAD.
Student loans
Home students may be eligible to apply for a student loan using the student finance website - click on ‘apply online for student finance’.
Search for Teesside University and the course title for the month you wish to start your studies and apply for a loan of £990 only to cover the cost of the first two modules. You must not select the maximum allowance option. If you study more than two modules within your year, the University will issue the Student Loans Company with an electronic change of circumstances request for an increase in your tuition fee loan. Please note you must apply each year for your next student loan - for example, if your loan starts in May 2017 you will need to apply again in May 2018 for that year.
When you receive your letter of confirmation from the Student Loans Company, please email it to us at tuole@tees.ac.uk before the start of your course. Please note that the foundation modules (if applicable) are not covered by this loan.
We are an ELCAS provider, provider number 1691.
Learning platform
Our virtual learning environment (VLE) is the platform you use to access your online course
Teesside University online learning courses are delivered through the Brightspace Learning Environment.
Here are some of the benefits.
- You can use it on your smartphone, tablet and computer.
- And you can use it anytime, so that you can plan your learning to fit your own schedule.
- It's easy to use and navigate.
- Modules are set out by topics and themes. You can use the progress bar to understand where you are in your modules, and appreciate your achievements.
- We support you to become familiar with your VLE, helping you to start learning quickly.
- You get feedback, help and guidance from tutors throughout your course through the VLE, and you can ask questions at any time.
- Our tutors use a live activity feed to keep you updated about your course.
- You can create a student profile, collaborate with other students and take part in online discussion forums.
