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HNC Robotics and Mechatronics (Part Time)

Marketing Title
Level 4
Part-Time
EG1002H26P (2026/2028)
14/09/2026
Format
24/01/2028
Format
Nelson and Colne College - Nelson and Colne College, Scotland Road, Nelson, BB9 7YT
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Course Information

Course Information
The HNC Robotics and Mechatronics introduces the integrated mechanical, electrical, electronic and control technologies used in automated and mechatronic systems.

You will study engineering mathematics, science and data analysis alongside sensors, instrumentation, electro-pneumatic and hydraulic systems, programmable logic controllers, automation and robotics. Project work helps you understand how different technologies are combined to sense, control and produce movement.

The course is suitable for people seeking higher-level technical knowledge for automation, robotics, manufacturing or maintenance employment, or progression to HND study.
You will develop your ability to:

• apply engineering mathematics, simulation, science and data analysis to mechatronic problems;
• understand sensors, instrumentation, signal measurement and system feedback;
• apply pneumatic, hydraulic, electrical and mechanical principles within integrated systems;
• use programmable logic controllers and introductory automation methods;
• understand the basic operation and application of robotic systems;
• design, build, test and evaluate engineering solutions;
• consider safety, reliability, security, sustainability and maintainability; and
• communicate technical information effectively.

The approved modules are:

Level 4 modules
• Introduction to Engineering Mathematics and Simulation
• Engineering Science and Data Analysis
• Project Design & Build
• Sensors & Instrumentation
• Electro, Pneumatic and Hydraulic Systems
• Introduction to PLCs, Automation and Robotics
This course is delivered part-time over 18 months through face-to-face teaching at Accrington or Nelson Campus, depending on the confirmed course offering. Timetabled teaching is normally spread across two days. Learning includes lectures, automation and control workshops, practical laboratory activity, programming and simulation, tutorials, project work and guided independent study.
Applicants should normally have a minimum of 48 UCAS Tariff points, with the majority gained from engineering, mathematics or science-related subjects.

Typical qualifications may include:
• one GCE A Level or Vocational A Level pass, or equivalent;
• two AS Level passes;
• a BTEC National Diploma or Certificate in a relevant subject;
• a recognised Access to Higher Education qualification;
• Scottish Highers, the Welsh Baccalaureate, Irish Leaving Certificate or International Baccalaureate; or
• another equivalent Level 3 qualification.

Applicants should normally hold a Level 3 qualification containing appropriate mathematical content. Relevant industrial experience, professional practice or prior learning may also be considered through Liverpool John Moores University's Recognition of Prior Learning procedures.

Applicants may be asked to provide evidence of previous study or experience, attend an interview, complete an aptitude assessment or provide references so that their readiness for higher education engineering study can be assessed.
Assessment may include practical system-building and testing, PLC or automation tasks, technical reports, portfolios, simulations, presentations, design work, tests and examinations. Formative practical activity and tutor feedback allow you to develop skills before final assessment.
Successful completion provides 120 credits at Level 4. You may then apply to progress to the corresponding HND Robotics and Mechatronics, subject to the entry requirements and continued availability of the progression route.

Some modules include practical or competency-based requirements. Where these apply, the required competence must be demonstrated before the associated credit can be awarded.

Any confirmed additional costs, including course-specific personal protective equipment or materials where applicable, will be explained before enrolment.

Learn more about this course in the LJMU course catalogue: link to be confirmed in September 2026.

This programme is validated by Liverpool John Moores University.

Upon completion of the programme, one certificate will be issued by LJMU.

Upon completion of the programme, a graduation ceremony will be arranged by East Lancashire UC.

The fees for our courses are:
• Full time - £9,525 per year
• Part Time - £4,763 per year

The course fees are payable to East Lancashire Learning Group.
The course can support technical employment in automation, manufacturing, control and maintenance environments. Depending on your experience and individual employer requirements, relevant roles may include:

• mechatronics engineering technician;
• automation or PLC technician;
• robotics technician or operator-support role;
• instrumentation or control technician;
• electro-pneumatic or hydraulic systems technician;
• maintenance, integration or technical-support technician.

Completion does not automatically provide authorisation to undertake regulated electrical or machinery-safety work. Employers may require additional occupational training, certification and evidence of competence.
Depending on the confirmed campus and modules being studied, facilities may include PLC and industrial-automation equipment, robotics and mechatronic training systems, sensors and instrumentation, pneumatic and hydraulic rigs, embedded and microcontroller platforms, electrical and electronic test equipment, programming tools and simulation software.

You will also have access to Moodle, Microsoft Teams, library resources, higher education study spaces and academic, careers, wellbeing and student-support services. The facilities assigned to your course offering will be confirmed before enrolment.
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