HND in Process Engineering by Flexible Open Learning

This distance learning mechanical engineering HND course is for learners who wish to work as technicians/technician engineers in the process engineering sector, manufacture, maintenance and testing. It has been developed in consultation with local industry and combines theory and practical work with the focus being on industrial applications.

The HND 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 an award of Teesside University delivered under licence from Edexcel by Teesside University Open Learning (Engineering).

Course details

You study 16 units chosen to cover the range of needs of local and national industries and business. The HND provides a sound understanding of all key principles.

Course structure

Year 1

Core modules

• Engineering Design
• Engineering Mathematics
• Engineering Science
• Fundamentals of Pneumatics and Hydraulics
• Instrumentation and Control Principles (TUOLE)
• Managing a Professional Engineering Project (TUOLE)

Optional modules

• Analytical Instrumentation
• Applications of Pneumatics and Hydraulics
• Fluid Mechanics
• Heat Transfer and Combustion
• Measurement of Process Variables
• Programmable Logic Controllers

Year 2

Core modules

• Advanced Control Principles
• Further mathematics
• Plant Services
• Professional Engineering Management
• Project
• Safety Engineering
• Statistical Process Control

Modules offered may vary.

How you learn

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 notwithstanding other distractions which may be present.

Each module is supported through e-learning@tees.ac.uk.

How you are assessed

The module learning 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 is 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.

Entry requirements

If you are already qualified to HNC level (or equivalent) in an appropriate subject you can use the 'apply online' link on the relevant HND to apply for a place.

If you are topping up your HNC to HND level, the maximum Edexcel registration period to complete this is five years. You are required by the award regulations to successfully complete at least two modules (30 credits) in each year.

If you don't already hold a relevant HNC (or equivalent level) qualification it is essential that you complete your HNC first before progressing onto the HND. This provides you with up to five years to complete your HNC and up to another five years to complete your HND. It is possible to complete your HNC and HND in a much shorter time frame by successfully completing more than two modules a year.

If you decide to study the HND directly without studying the HNC first, we strongly recommend you study the units that encompass the HNC before you study the other modules.

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.

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).

Career opportunities

Students who complete this course can progress to 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 you with the skills and knowledge which will enable you to gain employment within the process and related industries in the area of management.

The qualification provides you with the opportunity to seek career development into a senior position in national and international companies.

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.