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NQ Sustainable Construction

  • Qualifications National Qualifications
  • SCQF Level SCQF Level 6
  • Study mode August 2026 Courses
  • Campus Ayr
  • Start date August 2026
  • Duration 36 weeks
More information

Attendance/Duration

Full-time, one year

Campus

Ayr campus.

Overview

The NQ Sustainable Construction's Towards Net Zero! course is a future-focused qualification designed for learners who want to be part of Scotland's green construction revolution.

With the built environment responsible for around 40% of global carbon emissions, the industry urgently needs skilled professionals who understand sustainable design, low-carbon technologies, modern construction methods and energy-efficient building solutions.

This course provides an exciting introduction to sustainable construction, architectural design, environmental building science and digital design (CAD), preparing you for progression to **HNC Architectural Technology** or employment in the growing low-carbon construction sector.

You will explore how homes and buildings are designed, built and upgraded to meet Scotland's ambitious net zero targets including Passivhaus, modern methods of construction, renewable energy, and energy-saving technologies.

Course content

You will study a wide range of practical and theoretical subjects that reflect real industry practice and future skills needs including:

  • Sustainability in the Construction Industry.
  • Energy & the Environment.
  • Environmental Building Science.
  • Renewable Energy for Communities.
  • Exploring Scotland’s Climate Change Plan.
  • Energy Saving for Existing Properties (including smart controls and thermal imaging).
  • Design & Digital Skills.
  • Computer Aided Drafting (CAD).
  • Sustainable Design for Architecture.
  • Construction Technology.
  • Timber Homes & Passivhaus Construction.
  • House Construction in Scotland (1930–2030).
  • Modern Methods of Construction.
  • Practical Construction Methods.
  • Surveying & Site Investigation.

You will also learn about careers in Sustainable Construction.

It is hoped to visit construction sites, renewables installations and factory tours.

Entry requirements

Applicants should ideally have:

  • 4 National 5s (or equivalent), including Maths, English, a science or technical subject.
  • OR: A relevant SCQF Level 5 construction, built environment or engineering qualification.
  • OR: Relevant industry experience.
  • A strong interest in sustainability, construction, architecture or the built environment is essential.

 

Skills

By the end of the course, you will have developed:

  • CAD and digital design skills.
  • Sustainable building design knowledge.
  • Understanding of Passivhaus and low-energy buildings.
  • Knowledge of renewable energy systems.
  • Awareness of modern construction techniques.
  • Surveying and site investigation skills.
  • Environmental impact assessment.
  • Professional and employability skills.
  • Transferable and META Skills.

Career and further study

This course is an ideal pathway into the growing green construction sector.

Successful students can progress to:

  • HNC Architectural Technology.

 

Employer and industry links

This course is designed around current and future industry needs, with strong links to:

  • Sustainable construction employers.
  • Architectural practices.
  • Renewable energy specialists.
  • Retrofit and energy efficiency companies.
  • Modern Methods of Construction (MMC) manufacturers.
  • BE-ST (Built Environment – Smarter Transformation) innovation centre.