
Build practical skills. Progress your career.
A Higher National Certificate (HNC) is a widely recognised Level 4 qualification designed to help you develop industry-relevant skills and knowledge through practical, applied learning.
Whether you're looking to upskill, retrain or take the next step in your career, our HNC courses provide a flexible route to gaining a higher education qualification while preparing for employment or further study.
Available full-time or part-time, our HNC courses are designed to fit around your commitments and focus on the skills employers are looking for. Eligible UK students starting a full-time HNC course in September 2026 can also receive up to £3,000 financial support.
You'll graduate with practical experience, professional confidence and a qualification that can support career progression or progression onto further study.
Ready to apply?
Applications for our HNC courses starting in September 2026 are open. You can apply to us today.
Explore our HNC courses
Our Higher National Certificates combine practical learning with industry-focused teaching, helping you develop the skills needed for career progression in your chosen sector. Explore our HNC courses below and apply online to see if we can make you an offer.

Architectural Technology HNC
There are lots of advantages to studying Architectural Technology. This higher national certificate enables you to build up your knowledge and practical skills in…
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Building Services Engineering HNC
Our full-time or part-time Higher National Certificate (HNC) in Building Services Engineering (Heating Ventilation and Air Conditioning) enables you to build…
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Civil Engineering HNC
This full-time or part-time Higher National Certificate (HNC) Civil Engineering enables you to build up your knowledge and practical skills in civil engineering to becom…
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Construction Management HNC
Our part-time Higher National Certificate course enables you to study for a widely-recognised Level 4 qualification alongside your work commitments. Boost your kno…
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Engineering HNC
If you want to work in engineering and are looking to boost your skills through part-time study, our Higher National Certificate course lets you explore core subjects such as…
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Quantity Surveying HNC
This full-time or part-time Higher National Certificate (HNC) in Quantity Surveying enables you to build up your knowledge and practical skills to become a vital profes…
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£3k Cost of Living Allowance
At University College Birmingham, we believe the cost of living shouldn’t hold you back from achieving your goals. That’s why we’re providing UK students starting an HNC course in September 2026 with £3,000 each to support expenses like food, bills, and transport - completely free, with no need to pay it back.

“A Higher National Certificate is a Higher Technical Qualification (HTQ) that equips employees with the advanced skills and knowledge necessary to drive innovation, enhance productivity and maintain a competitive edge in the evolving technological landscape. We have been at the forefront of the development of these industry-informed qualifications and continue to invest in them to support learners and develop higher level skills across our region."
Rosa Wells Dean, School of Engineering, Digital and Sustainable Construction
Why study an HNC at UCB?
- Up to £3,000 financial support available for eligible UK students starting a full-time HNC course in September 2026
- Flexible study options with full-time and part-time routes available on selected courses
- Practical learning focused on developing the skills employers are looking for
- Career progression through industry-relevant qualifications designed to support your future goals
- Progression opportunities to further study, including Higher National Diplomas and degree-level qualifications
- Expert tuition from lecturers with industry knowledge and professional experience
Community and support
Our diverse and inclusive community will help you build friendships, discover new interests and make the most of university life.
You'll also have access to award-winning support throughout your studies, from academic skills and careers guidance to health, wellbeing and disability support. Whatever your goals, we're here to help you succeed.
Visit our open day
Visit our next Open Day to explore our campus, facilities and accommodation, meet lecturers and current students, and discover what it's like to study at University College Birmingham.