Access to Higher Education Diploma (Engineering)
Overview
Engineering is one of the most in demand skill sets in the world, with many countries reporting major skill shortages. Engineers are integral to dozens of industries from defence to electronics.
As an Engineer you will apply your scientific understanding of the natural world to innovate, design, and build, whilst solving problems and achieving practical goals.
An Access to Higher Education Diploma (Engineering) provides you with the opportunity to study a wide range of subjects within Engineering in order to prepare you for university study. During your Diploma you will study Chemistry and Chemical Change, Atomic Structure and Hydrocarbons. You will also learn Mechanics and Mechanical Sciences as well as the mathematical principles that underpin them.
This programme will provide you with a strong core of knowledge upon which to build at undergraduate level study. Access to HE Diplomas are accepted by most UK universities as a recognised alternative to A-levels.
Getting Started
learndirect is one of the UK's leading distance learning providers, but unlike most others, all of our courses are available fully online. This method of study gives you the flexibility to complete the course in a way that works best for you.
Through online learning, you don’t need to worry about classes or physical resource material. From the moment you are enrolled you can log in to our student portal and begin learning.You will be provided with an Individual Learning Plan that outlines the submission deadlines for your assignments to keep you on track throughout your studies. An Access to HE Diploma can be completed within two years. However, most students complete their course within 9-12 months.
You will also receive support and guidance our team of qualified and experienced tutors throughout your course.
Pursuing your career
Access to HE Diplomas are the launch-pad into a full time or part time university degree. Access courses are accepted by over 140 universities but be sure to check your chosen institute will accept the qualification before embarking on your studies with us.
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, it is necessary they have a GCSE Grade A-C in maths and English (or Functional Skills Level 2 or new GCSE Grade 4-9) with a desire to continue a related degree at university. If you do not hold these qualifications then you must be working towards them whilst completing your Access to HE Diploma.
Our Access to Higher Education Diplomas fulfil entry criteria for a broad range of university degrees and can be used in conjunction with the standard UCAS application process. In short, Access to HE Diplomas have a track record of helping learners get to the university and degree of their choice. Learners must bear in mind each university has their own set of admission criteria and places are subject to demand. Varying admission criteria can include but are not limited to 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.
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 in order to achieve the Access to HE Diploma (Engineering). Of these credits, 45 will be taken from graded units which focus on the academic subject areas included in the course. The remaining 15 come from ungraded units included to help you to 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 do to get the most out of your diploma.
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.
Developing your career
Hear from our past Students
Engineering is one of the most in demand skill sets in the world, with many countries reporting major skill shortages. Engineers are integral to dozens of industries from defence to electronics.
As an Engineer you will apply your scientific understanding of the natural world to innovate, design, and build, whilst solving problems and achieving practical goals.
An Access to Higher Education Diploma (Engineering) provides you with the opportunity to study a wide range of subjects within Engineering in order to prepare you for university study. During your Diploma you will study Chemistry and Chemical Change, Atomic Structure and Hydrocarbons. You will also learn Mechanics and Mechanical Sciences as well as the mathematical principles that underpin them.
This programme will provide you with a strong core of knowledge upon which to build at undergraduate level study. Access to HE Diplomas are accepted by most UK universities as a recognised alternative to A-levels.
Getting Started
learndirect is one of the UK's leading distance learning providers, but unlike most others, all of our courses are available fully online. This method of study gives you the flexibility to complete the course in a way that works best for you.
Through online learning, you don’t need to worry about classes or physical resource material. From the moment you are enrolled you can log in to our student portal and begin learning.You will be provided with an Individual Learning Plan that outlines the submission deadlines for your assignments to keep you on track throughout your studies. An Access to HE Diploma can be completed within two years. However, most students complete their course within 9-12 months.
You will also receive support and guidance our team of qualified and experienced tutors throughout your course.
Pursuing your career
Access to HE Diplomas are the launch-pad into a full time or part time university degree. Access courses are accepted by over 140 universities but be sure to check your chosen institute will accept the qualification before embarking on your studies with us.
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, it is necessary they have a GCSE Grade A-C in maths and English (or Functional Skills Level 2 or new GCSE Grade 4-9) with a desire to continue a related degree at university. If you do not hold these qualifications then you must be working towards them whilst completing your Access to HE Diploma.
Our Access to Higher Education Diplomas fulfil entry criteria for a broad range of university degrees and can be used in conjunction with the standard UCAS application process. In short, Access to HE Diplomas have a track record of helping learners get to the university and degree of their choice. Learners must bear in mind each university has their own set of admission criteria and places are subject to demand. Varying admission criteria can include but are not limited to 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.
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 in order to achieve the Access to HE Diploma (Engineering). Of these credits, 45 will be taken from graded units which focus on the academic subject areas included in the course. The remaining 15 come from ungraded units included to help you to 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 do to get the most out of your diploma.
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.
Hear from our past Students
