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ELECTROMECHANICAL ENGINEERING

Higher National Diploma

Accredited by University College Birmingham

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HND

Duration

2 years FT, 3 years PT

UCAS Code

H60D

Entry

September, February

Fees

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Department of Engineering and Built Environment
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Saturday 28 November 2026

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UK manufacturing generates around £217 billion annually and supports 2.6 million jobs

Automation technologies are driving rapid growth, with the global market expected to reach $88.5 billion by 2028

Do you want to build the skills needed for the future of engineering? From advanced manufacturing and automation to robotics and smart technologies, employers are seeking engineers who can work across mechanical, electrical and automated systems. Our HND Electromechanical Engineering course will give you the technical knowledge and practical experience needed to succeed in this fast-growing industry.

Designed for students progressing from qualifications such as BTECs, T Levels, A Levels and Access to HE Diplomas, this course develops your understanding of electromechanical design, automation, control systems, robotics and digital manufacturing. You'll strengthen your analytical, problem-solving and project management skills while exploring the technologies shaping modern engineering.

Using specialist engineering facilities, industry-standard software and employer-focused projects, you'll gain hands-on experience in system integration, diagnostics, programming and data analysis. With strong industry links and progression opportunities, this HND prepares you for careers in advanced manufacturing, automation and engineering, as well as further study at degree level.

This course is not open to international students.

Why should I choose this Electromechanical Engineering HND course?

  • Designed for employment - Developed to meet growing demand for engineers in advanced manufacturing, automation, robotics, digital engineering and smart industry environments, with a strong focus on Industry 4.0 technologies.

  • EMPLOYER LINKS - Students benefit from strong links with local employers, offering work placements, apprenticeship-style learning, and real-world project opportunities. Students can gain industry experience through site visits, guest speakers, and work with the Great Birmingham and Solihull Institute of Technology (GBSIoT).

  • BUILDING SKILLS FOR EMPLOYMENT - Students have access to an established engineering facilities at our Camden House campus, featuring a broad range of specialised labs, workshop spaces and software used in industry.

  • INDUSTRY-FOCUSED SKILLS - Build expertise in electromechanical design, automation, control systems, robotics, digital manufacturing and system integration, alongside problem-solving, project management and communication skills.

  • SUPPORT AND EXPERT TUITION - Taught by experienced engineers with smaller class sizes supporting a personalised teaching approach.

  • TOP FOR STUDENT SATISFACTION - We came third in the UK for overall student satisfaction among universities in the National Student Survey 2026 (when taking the average score for student satisfaction for each of the 26 questions in the NSS).

Our facilities

Students on our engineering courses learn in industry-standard facilities designed to develop practical, career-ready skills. At our Camden House campus, you'll have access to specialist engineering labs, workshop spaces and professional software used across the engineering sector.

You'll also benefit from our innovative Battery Manufacturing Skills Pathway facilities at the James Cond Building. Featuring immersive virtual reality (VR) training and a dedicated battery manufacturing workshop, these facilities provide hands-on experience with the technologies supporting the future of sustainable transport, energy storage and advanced manufacturing.

Our facilities include:

  • Mechanical and materials testing labs for exploring the properties and performance of engineering materials.

  • Mechatronics and robotics labs featuring robotic arms, sensors and automation equipment.

  • Thermodynamics and fluid mechanics labs for studying energy, heat transfer and fluid systems.

  • Industry-standard software, including SolidWorks, ANSYS, MATLAB, AutoCAD and Fusion 360 for design, simulation and engineering analysis.

  • Control systems and programming tools, including LabVIEW, Arduino and Raspberry Pi platforms for automation and smart engineering projects.

Tour our facilities

Two student connecting wires on an electric board.
Student working on a battery project on a touch screen.
Student working on a VR headset
Student working on a battery.

Course breakdown

  • Year 1
  • Year 2

Core Modules

Applied Engineering Mathematics

Engineering relies on mathematics to model, analyse, and solve real-world problems. This module equips students with the core mathematical tools required across engineering practice. Through practical, engineering-focused examples, students will develop confidence in using calculus, differential equations, transforms, and statistical methods to analyse systems and interpret data encountered in modern engineering practice.

Electrical and Electronic Principles

Electrical and electronic systems underpin modern engineering technologies. This module provides a practical introduction to circuit analysis, electronic components, digital logic, and programmable control. Through hands-on laboratory work, students will develop confidence in building and testing circuits safely while gaining essential knowledge of PLCs and control systems used widely in industry.

Engineering Science and Principles

Engineering systems are governed by core scientific principles. This module provides a foundation in engineering science, covering forces and motion, energy and heat transfer, fluid behaviour, and vibration. Students will gain the knowledge needed to understand how real engineering systems behave, forming a strong base for advanced modules.

Digital Design and CAD for Engineering

Modern engineering design is increasingly digital, integrated, and data-driven. This module introduces students to 3D CAD modelling, computer-aided manufacture, and engineering computation. Students will develop practical skills in creating parametric models, generating manufacturing documentation, and using software tools to support and improve design quality. The module also highlights how mechanical designs interface with electrical and control systems in real engineering environments.

Fundamentals of Engineering Practice

Engineering is about more than technical skill; it also involves responsibility, teamwork, and professional judgement. In this module, students will apply engineering design methods to a practical build project while developing an understanding of health and safety, ethics, inclusivity, and sustainability. Through teamwork and reflection, students will begin to build the professional skills and behaviours expected of modern engineers.

Material and Manufacture

Materials and manufacturing are at the heart of all engineering systems. This module introduces students to the key engineering materials used in industry and the processes used to shape and manufacture them. Students will explore how material properties influence performance and cost, gain hands-on experience through laboratory testing, and learn how to make informed, sustainable material choices for real engineering applications.

Core Modules

Control Systems Engineering

Control systems are central to modern engineering, from automated manufacturing to electromechanical devices. This module equips students with the knowledge and skills to model, analyse, and design control systems, including PID controllers, and to evaluate performance using simulation tools. Students will gain hands-on experience in understanding system behaviour, stability, and response characteristics, preparing them for advanced engineering applications.

Thermo-Fluids and Energy Systems

Energy and fluid systems are at the core of modern engineering. This module introduces students to thermodynamic cycles, heat transfer, and fluid flow in engineering applications. Students will explore fluid machine design and turbomachinery, apply analytical methods to real systems, and develop practical skills through experimental work, interpreting results with attention to accuracy and uncertainty.

Sustainable Engineering and Renewable Energy

Sustainable engineering is central to modern industry and society. This module introduces students to renewable energy technologies, sustainability principles, and the environmental and societal impacts of engineering solutions. Students will learn to assess system efficiencies, compare renewable integration strategies, and make informed, sustainable decisions in the design of engineering systems.

Engineering Management

Effective project management is essential to successful engineering practice. This module equips students with the tools and techniques to plan, monitor, and control engineering projects. Students will also explore ethical, environmental, and legal responsibilities, as well as quality and operations management principles. The module provides practical insights into managing change within engineering assets and operational contexts.

Digital Manufacturing and Smart Factory Systems

Digital manufacturing is transforming how products are designed, produced, and optimised. This module introduces students to smart factory concepts, cyber-physical systems, and data-driven manufacturing. Students will explore how digital tools such as simulation and digital twins can be used to analyse and optimise manufacturing processes, developing practical skills aligned with Industry 4.0 and modern electromechanical engineering practice.

Mechatronic System Design

Mechatronics brings together mechanics, electronics, and control to create intelligent engineering systems. In this module, students will design and build a working mechatronic system, integrating sensors, actuators, and controllers. Through simulation, laboratory testing, and prototyping, students will evaluate system performance and reliability while developing the practical and communication skills needed for modern electromechanical engineering roles.

The modules listed above for this course are regularly reviewed to ensure they are up to date and informed by industry as well as the latest teaching methods. On occasion, we may need to make unexpected changes to modules – if this occurs, we will contact all offer holders as soon as possible.

Entry requirements 

Entry requirements

A-levels: DD (Engineering, Physics or Mathematics are desirable, but not mandatory).

BTEC: A BTEC grade profile of PPP for a National Extended Diploma, MP for a National Diploma, or D for a National Extended Certificate. Equivalent combinations of BTEC Level 3 qualifications achieving the required standard will also be considered.

Apprenticeship: Successful completion of an Advanced Apprenticeship (Level 3).

Tariff: Other Level 3 qualifications are accepted for entry. A minimum of 48 UCAS Tariff points will be required.

Access to Higher Education Diploma: A recognised Access to Higher Education Diploma, achieving a minimum of 48 UCAS Tariff points or equivalent.

GCSEs: You should also have a minimum grade 4 in GCSE Mathematics, or Functional Skills Level 2.

Work-based: We also give equal consideration to applicants who are currently in work and wish to apply to University College Birmingham. To apply, you must have a minimum of 3 years’ relevant work experience, demonstrating management or supervisory duties. Your application must also include a reference from your line manager supporting your entry to higher education. For further details, please contact Admissions.

Key information

Teaching and assessment

We won silver for our lecturing and teaching quality in the regional Whatuni Student Choice Awards 2026, as voted for by students themselves.

A typical teaching week will comprise of up to 12 contact hours. A wide variety of teaching methods will be used to ensure you gain the appropriate skills and knowledge, including lectures, practical sessions, workshops, tutorials and group study sessions. Face-to-face classes will be combined with practical research activities in our engineering facilities, while you will also be required to conduct around 20 hours per week of individual study time.

Assessment:

Assessment occurs through a combination of assignments, projects and tests/exams, with a focus on the holistic development of practical, interpersonal and higher-level skills. Many modules will require a practical demonstration of skills, while others will require you to carry out your own research and analysis, working independently or as part of a team. Our assessments will focus on developing the skills required by a professional engineer – designing and demonstrating a product, delivering presentations and technical report-writing, aimed at technical and non-technical audiences to broaden your range of skills.

Estimated breakdown of assessment for this course:

  • Coursework – 40%

  • Practical assessment – 25%

  • Written examinations – 35%

Our teaching and assessment is underpinned by our Learning and Teaching Strategy 2025-2030.

Timetable

We understand that you need to balance study with work, so your lessons will be timetabled into one day a week for part-time study.

Tuition fees for home students

If you are a home student or an EU student with settled/pre-settled status enrolling on a full-time HND in 2026/2027, your fee for this academic year will be £9,790. UK students do not pay tuition fees for any placement periods. The part-time fee for this academic year is £4,895.

View tuition fees for home students

Please note: the fees stated are subject to parliamentary procedure. Tuition fees are expected to increase each academic year in line with the maximum permitted value set by the Government for that academic year. The expected rise for Home undergraduate students (including those on a foundation year course), may impact both new and continuing students. 

This course is delivered in partnership with the Greater Birmingham and Solihull Institute of Technology (GBSIoT).

Accreditations, endorsements and partnerships

University College Birmingham works with a wide range of organisations to ensure you receive the best possible training and qualifications recognised by industry.

Career opportunities

The example roles and salaries below are intended as a guide only.

Electromechanical engineer

Average salary: £36,000 – £42,000 per year (entry to mid‑level range)

Automation / robotics engineer

Average salary: £42,000 – £55,000 per year

Manufacturing engineer

Average salary: £45,000 – £55,000 per year (industry guide)

Quality assurance / quality engineer

Average salary: £40,000 – £50,000 per year

Maintenance / field service engineer

Average salary: £38,000 – £45,000 per year

Mechatronics engineer

Average salary: £32,000 – £45,000 per year (early career)

HIRED

We are here to support your career goals every step of the way. 

 

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Rachael’s Story

Senior engineering lecturer Rachael has witnessed first-hand the rapid changes in industry and is now sharing her vast experience with our students.

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