Access to Higher Education Diploma (Engineering)
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Tuesday 5th of July
Accreditation by Open College Network West Midlands
100%
online
learning
learning
15
units
600
notional
learning hours
learning hours
Access to Higher Education Diploma (Engineering)
This Course at a Glance
- First steps towards a career in engineering
- Average completion time 9-12 months
- Achieve the equivalent of 3 A Levels
- Fast route to university
- 100% online learning
- No Exams
About Your Diploma
If you want to make a crucial contribution to the fabric of our industries, then engineering opens up a realm of opportunities. It is a skill that is always in demand as almost every industry, from electronics to defence, requires the expertise of a professional engineer.
By studying the Access to Higher Education Diploma (Engineering), you will be able to pursue engineering at degree level. Learning these crucial skills will allow you to apply your understanding to design, build, and solve problems.
If you don’t already possess A Levels, an Access to Higher Education Diploma is the best route to university as one Diploma is equivalent to 3 A Levels. Before embarking on degree-level study, you can gain a foundational knowledge that will prepare you for the next step.
During your nationally recognised course, you will delve into the elements required to understand the fundamentals of engineering, including atomic structure, chemical change, mechanical science, and mechanical engineering.
Mathematical skills are essential in engineering, so you should already be strong with numbers when you embark on this course. You will explore the mathematical principles that engineers use on a daily basis to perform their mechanical duties. Every element of your study is designed to kick-start your career in engineering.
Please note that while most universities accept Access to Higher Education Diplomas, you should check with your chosen establishment before applying.
Getting Started
You have a year to complete an Access to Higher Education Diploma, but on average, learndirect students take around 9 months to secure their qualifications. This is because you have the flexibility to study at your own pace, although you will have assignment deadlines.
To help keep you on track, you will be issued with an Individual Learning Plan. This will set out your deadlines and allow you to track your progress. With the course being 100% online, you won’t be confined to in-person classroom study.
As long as you have a computer/laptop and stable internet connection, you can study the Access to Higher Education Diploma (Engineering).
OUR PASS RATE
Access to Higher Education Diplomas
(National Average 78.4%)
88%
Unit 1: Preparing to Study
On completion of this unit you will:
- Understand how study is organised and planned
- Understand how to apply theories of learning in relation to personal approaches to learning
- Understand a range of constraints upon study
- Understand the importance of assessment feedback.
Unit 2: Academic Writing Skills
On completion of this unit you will:
- Be able to write with relevance in responding to an academic task
- Know how to interpret and discuss ideas and issues in responding to a set, academic writing task
- Be able to summarise for academic purposes, selecting key points, information or central ideas.
Unit 3: Preparing a Written Assignment
On completion of this unit you will:
- Understand how to use key information sources
- Understand why sources are acknowledged and referenced
- Understand a range of reading strategies
- Understand note-making methods
- Understand how to plan, draft and produce a written assignment.
Unit 4: Atomic Structure
On completion of this unit you will:
- Understand protons, neutrons and electrons in terms of their relative charges and masses
- Understand the distribution of protons, neutrons and electrons in an atom given its Atomic number and Mass number, including some isotopes
- Understand the number and relative energies of the s, p and d orbitals for the principle quantum numbers and know the shapes of s, p and d orbitals
- Understand how ionisation energies of elements relate to reactivity
- Understand the position of elements within the Periodic Table from ionisation energy data.
Unit 5: Algebraic Methods
On completion of this unit you will:
- Apply series
- Apply mathematical operations on logarithms
- Apply mathematical operations on surds
- Apply algebraic methods.
Unit 6: Periodic Table
On completion of this unit you will:
- Understand the Periodic Table
- Understand periodicity in the elements of period 3
- Understand ionisation energy
- Understand oxidation and reduction
- Understand reactions of the Group 2 metals
- Understand the Group 7 elements.
Unit 7: Mechanics
On completion of this unit you will:
- Understand vectors and be able to do vector addition calculations
- Understand and be able to do vector resolution calculations
- Understand the nature of uniformly accelerated motion and be able to do motion calculations
- Be able to do projectile motion calculations
- Understand and be able to use Newtons Laws of Motion
- Understand and be able to do calculations involving the principles of momentum and its conservation
- Understand the concepts of energy, work and power in physics, and be able to do work/force calculations
- Understand internal energy
- Understand and apply the ideal gas laws
- Understand the simple kinetic theory of gases and be able to do related calculations.
Unit 8: Trigonometry
On completion of this unit you will:
- Apply the trigonometrical functions.
- Apply trigonometry.
- Understand the principles of trigonometric graphs.
Unit 9: Hydrocarbons
On completion of this unit you will:
- Understand the importance of organic compounds
- Understand the structure and characteristic reactions of alkanes
- Understand the structure and characteristic reactions of alkenes.
Unit 10: Calculus
On completion of this unit you will:
- Apply differentiation
- Apply integration
- Apply differentiation and integration to solve problems.
Unit 11: Engineering Mathematics – Principles
On completion of this unit you will:
- Be able to evaluate complex expressions involving indices, perform a range of arithmetic operations on a scientific calculator, and solve engineering problems using the laws of logarithms and indices
- Be able to apply algebraic techniques to solve simple simultaneous equations, evaluate and transpose complex formulae and plot and determine/sketch linear and non-linear relationships
- Be able to solve engineering problems using a range of geometrical and trigonometrical techniques.
Unit 12: Engineering Mathematics – Algebraic and Trigonometric Techniques
On completion of this unit you will:
- Be able to apply algebraic techniques to form and solve quadratic equations for engineering applications
- Be able to use matrix algebra to solve linear equations, simple matrices; and relate matrices to simple technical problems
- Be able to use trigonometric functions to determine basic and inverse rations and plot equations
- Be able to prove trigonometric identities and recognise, select and apply rules to solve engineering problems
- Be able to apply Pascal’s triangle and binomial theorem to expand mathematical expressions and solve engineering problems.
Unit 13: Chemical Change
On completion of this unit you will:
- Know how to measure the concentrations of solutions
- Understand energy changes during chemical reactions
- Understand factors influencing rates of chemical reactions
- Understand the concept of chemical equilibrium.
Unit 14: Engineering Mathematics - Calculus
On completion of this unit you will:
- Be able to apply differentiation techniques to find the rates of change for various functions, differentiate functions, and define and use functions in engineering applications
- Be able to use calculus to solve a range of engineering problems
- Be able to apply integration techniques to determine indefinite and definite integrals of functions, and areas under curves.
Unit 15: Mechanical Science - Energy and Motion
On completion of this unit you will:
- Be able to do calculations involving linear and angular motion
- Be able to do calculations involving the effect of forces on materials
- Be able to do calculations and problems involving friction
- Be able to do calculations and problems involving heat energy and transfer.
- Be able to do calculations and problems involving torque.
Anyone wishing to continue their education with an Access to Higher Education Diploma will require a GCSE in Maths and English at grade C/4 or above. Alternatively, you can enrol on the course if you have the equivalent in the form of a Functional Skills Level 2. If you don’t currently possess these qualifications, you must be working towards them while studying the Access to Higher Education Diploma (Engineering). You also need to be planning to study an engineering-related degree at university.
Access to HE Diplomas have a track record of helping learners get to the university of their choice as most establishments accept them in conjunction with standard UCAS applications. Each university has their own entry requirements and places are subject to demand. Keep in mind that some universities may also require the following:
- Number of credits to be attained at merit or distinction level
- Successfully passing a face-to-face interview at the University
- Passing a University’s proprietary literacy and numeracy assessments
- Completion of specified work placements or work experience
- GCSE Grade A-C in Maths and English (or equivalent Level 2 such as Functional Skills)
Learners must undertake their own research to ensure their Diploma gives them the best possible chance of gaining entry to their university of choice. It is not possible for learndirect to accept any liability if any Access to Higher Education Diploma student fails to secure an offer from a higher education institution.
*Please note, this course is eligible for UK residents only.
*You will have access to the course for 12 months only, after which, you can purchase extensions here
A range of units make up this qualification, with an assignment at the end of each. You will submit your work to your tutor for marking and tailored feedback. You must acquire 60 credits in total to achieve the Access to HE Diploma (Engineering).
Of these credits, 45 will be taken from graded units that focus on the academic subject areas included in the course. The remaining 15 come from ungraded units included to help you improve your academic writing and study skills.
As part of your programme, you will also receive help as well as guidance on your university application and the research you need to conduct.
Open College Network West Midlands
On successful completion of the Open College Network West Midlands Access to Higher Education Diploma (Engineering) you will receive a QAA recognised Access to HE Diploma at level 3 (QAA ref = 40010399).
Open College Network West Midlands are a national Awarding Organisation, regulated by Ofqual, the Quality Assurance Agency for Higher Education (QAA) and Qualifications Wales, to develop and award nationally recognised qualifications.
Open College Network West Midlands work in partnership with employers, training providers, colleges, universities, schools and voluntary and community organisations to offer vocational credit-based qualifications, Access to Higher Education Diplomas and quality assured Customised Accreditation that enables learners gain employment or to progress into further learning and Higher Education. They also Quality Endorse organisations internal training and skills delivery.
If you are a creative critical thinker who has expert attention to detail and can communicate effectively, a career in engineering could be perfect for you. Not only will you be able to apply your best traits, but you could also play a pivotal role in the development of the country’s core industries.
Engineering experts are always in demand, and with an engineering degree, you can branch into specific roles. An Access to Higher Education Diploma (Engineering) is the best way to begin your journey towards a career in engineering. This is because you will gain a recognised qualification that most universities accept, as well as a strong foundational knowledge of the subject.
This course is ideal preparation for one of the following bachelor’s degrees:
- BSc (Hons) Engineering
- BSc (Hons) Software Engineering Management
- BSc (Hons) Computer Engineering
- BSc (Hons) Applied Engineering
- BSc (Hons) Civil Engineering
- BSc (Hons) Chemical Engineering
- BSc (Hons) Mechanical Engineering
- BSc (Hons) Electrical Engineering
These specialised courses can lead you towards a type of engineering that you want to pursue. Your degree is designed to prepare you for the working world, and once you have obtained your degree, you can apply for jobs related to your chosen field. The subjects above could potentially lead to jobs in the following sectors:
- Aerospace
- Construction
- Mining
- Agriculture
- Architecture
- Robotics
- Software
- Civil Engineering
Further Qualifications and Prospects
Once you have obtained a Bachelor’s degree, you will be in a strong position to apply for job roles within your chosen field. To progress towards a leadership role in your career, you should consider a Master’s degree that specialises within a certain field, such as the following:
- MSc Biomedical Engineering
- MSc Mechanical Engineering
- MSc Systems Engineering
- MSc Product Design and Manufacturing
If your ultimate goal is to pursue a leadership role in engineering, then this is your best route. Beginning your learning journey with an Access to Higher Education Diploma (Engineering) will get you on your way to achieving your desired career.
Access to Higher Education Diploma (Engineering)
This Course at a Glance
- First steps towards a career in engineering
- Average completion time 9-12 months
- Achieve the equivalent of 3 A Levels
- Fast route to university
- 100% online learning
- No Exams
About Your Diploma
If you want to make a crucial contribution to the fabric of our industries, then engineering opens up a realm of opportunities. It is a skill that is always in demand as almost every industry, from electronics to defence, requires the expertise of a professional engineer.
By studying the Access to Higher Education Diploma (Engineering), you will be able to pursue engineering at degree level. Learning these crucial skills will allow you to apply your understanding to design, build, and solve problems.
If you don’t already possess A Levels, an Access to Higher Education Diploma is the best route to university as one Diploma is equivalent to 3 A Levels. Before embarking on degree-level study, you can gain a foundational knowledge that will prepare you for the next step.
During your nationally recognised course, you will delve into the elements required to understand the fundamentals of engineering, including atomic structure, chemical change, mechanical science, and mechanical engineering.
Mathematical skills are essential in engineering, so you should already be strong with numbers when you embark on this course. You will explore the mathematical principles that engineers use on a daily basis to perform their mechanical duties. Every element of your study is designed to kick-start your career in engineering.
Please note that while most universities accept Access to Higher Education Diplomas, you should check with your chosen establishment before applying.
Getting Started
You have a year to complete an Access to Higher Education Diploma, but on average, learndirect students take around 9 months to secure their qualifications. This is because you have the flexibility to study at your own pace, although you will have assignment deadlines.
To help keep you on track, you will be issued with an Individual Learning Plan. This will set out your deadlines and allow you to track your progress. With the course being 100% online, you won’t be confined to in-person classroom study.
As long as you have a computer/laptop and stable internet connection, you can study the Access to Higher Education Diploma (Engineering).
Modules
Unit 1: Preparing to Study
On completion of this unit you will:
- Understand how study is organised and planned
- Understand how to apply theories of learning in relation to personal approaches to learning
- Understand a range of constraints upon study
- Understand the importance of assessment feedback.
Unit 2: Academic Writing Skills
On completion of this unit you will:
- Be able to write with relevance in responding to an academic task
- Know how to interpret and discuss ideas and issues in responding to a set, academic writing task
- Be able to summarise for academic purposes, selecting key points, information or central ideas.
Unit 3: Preparing a Written Assignment
On completion of this unit you will:
- Understand how to use key information sources
- Understand why sources are acknowledged and referenced
- Understand a range of reading strategies
- Understand note-making methods
- Understand how to plan, draft and produce a written assignment.
Unit 4: Atomic Structure
On completion of this unit you will:
- Understand protons, neutrons and electrons in terms of their relative charges and masses
- Understand the distribution of protons, neutrons and electrons in an atom given its Atomic number and Mass number, including some isotopes
- Understand the number and relative energies of the s, p and d orbitals for the principle quantum numbers and know the shapes of s, p and d orbitals
- Understand how ionisation energies of elements relate to reactivity
- Understand the position of elements within the Periodic Table from ionisation energy data.
Unit 5: Algebraic Methods
On completion of this unit you will:
- Apply series
- Apply mathematical operations on logarithms
- Apply mathematical operations on surds
- Apply algebraic methods.
Unit 6: Periodic Table
On completion of this unit you will:
- Understand the Periodic Table
- Understand periodicity in the elements of period 3
- Understand ionisation energy
- Understand oxidation and reduction
- Understand reactions of the Group 2 metals
- Understand the Group 7 elements.
Unit 7: Mechanics
On completion of this unit you will:
- Understand vectors and be able to do vector addition calculations
- Understand and be able to do vector resolution calculations
- Understand the nature of uniformly accelerated motion and be able to do motion calculations
- Be able to do projectile motion calculations
- Understand and be able to use Newtons Laws of Motion
- Understand and be able to do calculations involving the principles of momentum and its conservation
- Understand the concepts of energy, work and power in physics, and be able to do work/force calculations
- Understand internal energy
- Understand and apply the ideal gas laws
- Understand the simple kinetic theory of gases and be able to do related calculations.
Unit 8: Trigonometry
On completion of this unit you will:
- Apply the trigonometrical functions.
- Apply trigonometry.
- Understand the principles of trigonometric graphs.
Unit 9: Hydrocarbons
On completion of this unit you will:
- Understand the importance of organic compounds
- Understand the structure and characteristic reactions of alkanes
- Understand the structure and characteristic reactions of alkenes.
Unit 10: Calculus
On completion of this unit you will:
- Apply differentiation
- Apply integration
- Apply differentiation and integration to solve problems.
Unit 11: Engineering Mathematics – Principles
On completion of this unit you will:
- Be able to evaluate complex expressions involving indices, perform a range of arithmetic operations on a scientific calculator, and solve engineering problems using the laws of logarithms and indices
- Be able to apply algebraic techniques to solve simple simultaneous equations, evaluate and transpose complex formulae and plot and determine/sketch linear and non-linear relationships
- Be able to solve engineering problems using a range of geometrical and trigonometrical techniques.
Unit 12: Engineering Mathematics – Algebraic and Trigonometric Techniques
On completion of this unit you will:
- Be able to apply algebraic techniques to form and solve quadratic equations for engineering applications
- Be able to use matrix algebra to solve linear equations, simple matrices; and relate matrices to simple technical problems
- Be able to use trigonometric functions to determine basic and inverse rations and plot equations
- Be able to prove trigonometric identities and recognise, select and apply rules to solve engineering problems
- Be able to apply Pascal’s triangle and binomial theorem to expand mathematical expressions and solve engineering problems.
Unit 13: Chemical Change
On completion of this unit you will:
- Know how to measure the concentrations of solutions
- Understand energy changes during chemical reactions
- Understand factors influencing rates of chemical reactions
- Understand the concept of chemical equilibrium.
Unit 14: Engineering Mathematics - Calculus
On completion of this unit you will:
- Be able to apply differentiation techniques to find the rates of change for various functions, differentiate functions, and define and use functions in engineering applications
- Be able to use calculus to solve a range of engineering problems
- Be able to apply integration techniques to determine indefinite and definite integrals of functions, and areas under curves.
Unit 15: Mechanical Science - Energy and Motion
On completion of this unit you will:
- Be able to do calculations involving linear and angular motion
- Be able to do calculations involving the effect of forces on materials
- Be able to do calculations and problems involving friction
- Be able to do calculations and problems involving heat energy and transfer.
- Be able to do calculations and problems involving torque.
Requirements
Anyone wishing to continue their education with an Access to Higher Education Diploma will require a GCSE in Maths and English at grade C/4 or above. Alternatively, you can enrol on the course if you have the equivalent in the form of a Functional Skills Level 2. If you don’t currently possess these qualifications, you must be working towards them while studying the Access to Higher Education Diploma (Engineering). You also need to be planning to study an engineering-related degree at university.
Access to HE Diplomas have a track record of helping learners get to the university of their choice as most establishments accept them in conjunction with standard UCAS applications. Each university has their own entry requirements and places are subject to demand. Keep in mind that some universities may also require the following:
- Number of credits to be attained at merit or distinction level
- Successfully passing a face-to-face interview at the University
- Passing a University’s proprietary literacy and numeracy assessments
- Completion of specified work placements or work experience
- GCSE Grade A-C in Maths and English (or equivalent Level 2 such as Functional Skills)
Learners must undertake their own research to ensure their Diploma gives them the best possible chance of gaining entry to their university of choice. It is not possible for learndirect to accept any liability if any Access to Higher Education Diploma student fails to secure an offer from a higher education institution.
*Please note, this course is eligible for UK residents only.
*You will have access to the course for 12 months only, after which, you can purchase extensions here
Assessment
A range of units make up this qualification, with an assignment at the end of each. You will submit your work to your tutor for marking and tailored feedback. You must acquire 60 credits in total to achieve the Access to HE Diploma (Engineering).
Of these credits, 45 will be taken from graded units that focus on the academic subject areas included in the course. The remaining 15 come from ungraded units included to help you improve your academic writing and study skills.
As part of your programme, you will also receive help as well as guidance on your university application and the research you need to conduct.
Qualifications
Open College Network West Midlands
On successful completion of the Open College Network West Midlands Access to Higher Education Diploma (Engineering) you will receive a QAA recognised Access to HE Diploma at level 3 (QAA ref = 40010399).
Open College Network West Midlands are a national Awarding Organisation, regulated by Ofqual, the Quality Assurance Agency for Higher Education (QAA) and Qualifications Wales, to develop and award nationally recognised qualifications.
Open College Network West Midlands work in partnership with employers, training providers, colleges, universities, schools and voluntary and community organisations to offer vocational credit-based qualifications, Access to Higher Education Diplomas and quality assured Customised Accreditation that enables learners gain employment or to progress into further learning and Higher Education. They also Quality Endorse organisations internal training and skills delivery.
If you are a creative critical thinker who has expert attention to detail and can communicate effectively, a career in engineering could be perfect for you. Not only will you be able to apply your best traits, but you could also play a pivotal role in the development of the country’s core industries.
Engineering experts are always in demand, and with an engineering degree, you can branch into specific roles. An Access to Higher Education Diploma (Engineering) is the best way to begin your journey towards a career in engineering. This is because you will gain a recognised qualification that most universities accept, as well as a strong foundational knowledge of the subject.
This course is ideal preparation for one of the following bachelor’s degrees:
- BSc (Hons) Engineering
- BSc (Hons) Software Engineering Management
- BSc (Hons) Computer Engineering
- BSc (Hons) Applied Engineering
- BSc (Hons) Civil Engineering
- BSc (Hons) Chemical Engineering
- BSc (Hons) Mechanical Engineering
- BSc (Hons) Electrical Engineering
These specialised courses can lead you towards a type of engineering that you want to pursue. Your degree is designed to prepare you for the working world, and once you have obtained your degree, you can apply for jobs related to your chosen field. The subjects above could potentially lead to jobs in the following sectors:
- Aerospace
- Construction
- Mining
- Agriculture
- Architecture
- Robotics
- Software
- Civil Engineering
Further Qualifications and Prospects
Once you have obtained a Bachelor’s degree, you will be in a strong position to apply for job roles within your chosen field. To progress towards a leadership role in your career, you should consider a Master’s degree that specialises within a certain field, such as the following:
- MSc Biomedical Engineering
- MSc Mechanical Engineering
- MSc Systems Engineering
- MSc Product Design and Manufacturing
If your ultimate goal is to pursue a leadership role in engineering, then this is your best route. Beginning your learning journey with an Access to Higher Education Diploma (Engineering) will get you on your way to achieving your desired career.
OUR PASS RATE
Access to Higher Education Diplomas
88%
