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Mechanical Engineering HTQ Higher National Diploma
Mechanical Engineering HTQ Higher National Diploma
Course Overview
Course Code
P00728
Start Date
21/09/2026
Study Hours
Part Time
Duration
2 years
Start time
08:30 am
End time
19:00 pm
Campus
Abbey Park Campus
Level
Level 5
This two-year part-time Higher National Diploma (HND) in Mechanical Engineering is designed for those looking to advance their technical knowledge and progress into higher-level engineering roles while continuing in employment.
Building on Level 4 study, the course develops advanced mechanical engineering knowledge, focusing on areas such as thermofluids, manufacturing systems and modern engineering practices.
Throughout the course, you will apply your learning through project-based and practical activities, enabling you to develop the skills required for real engineering environments. This prepares you for progression into senior technical roles or further study.
This flexible programme supports career progression and prepares you for roles in engineering, manufacturing and production, or progression to a top-up degree.
In Year 1, you will focus on higher-level core topics including professional engineering management, advanced mechanical principles, further mathematics and thermofluids. These units develop your analytical and technical capabilities.
A project or suitable industry visit may also be undertaken during the course of study to develop industry-based experience, knowledge and skills.
In Year 2, you will build on this knowledge by studying areas such as virtual engineering, manufacturing systems engineering, lean manufacturing and further thermodynamics, reflecting modern industry practices.
Standard entry to this course requires successful completion of a Level 4 qualification in a related subject area, such as a Higher National Certificate (HNC) in Engineering.
You are expected to hold GCSE English and Mathematics at Grade 4 (C) or above, or an equivalent qualification.
All applicants could be invited to attend an interview to assess suitability and prior achievement.
- Annual Tuition fee: £3178
For certain practical activities, you may be required to provide your own personal protective equipment (PPE).
This course supports progression into higher-level employment and further study within the engineering sector.
On successful completion of the Higher National Diploma (Level 5), you may progress to a top-up degree (final year of a university programme) or other higher-level qualifications.
Alternatively, you may choose to enter or progress within employment. The advanced knowledge and skills developed on this course are valued across a wide range of industries, including manufacturing, energy, aerospace, automotive and automation.
Typical roles include design engineer, manufacturing engineer, project engineer or more senior technical positions within engineering organisations.
The course is designed to prepare you for long-term career progression by developing both your technical expertise and professional skills.
Step 1: Search for vacancies or apply through Leicester College Website using codes P00766 (FT) or P00728(PT). Step 2: Once submitted, your application will be reviewed by our Higher Education Team. Step 3: Any external students, If your application is shortlisted, you will receive a conditional offer. Alternatively, we may contact you by phone or email to discuss your application and request any additional information if required. Internal students go straight to Step 5. Step 4: Once you have met the conditions of your offer, typically in the summer prior to the course start date, you will be invited to attend the college. This will allow us to verify your certificates and complete the enrolment process. Step 5: After completing enrolment your Higher Education journey will officially begin with us.
Course Overview
Course Code
P00728
Start Date
21/09/2026
Study Hours
Part Time
Duration
2 years
Start time
08:30 am
End time
19:00 pm
Campus
Abbey Park Campus
Level
Level 5