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HNC Mechatronics

  • Qualifications Higher National Qualifications
  • SCQF Level SCQF Level 7
  • Study mode August 2026 Courses
  • Campus Kilwinning
  • Start date August 2026
  • Duration 36 weeks
More information

Attendance/Duration

Full time, one year

Overview

Scotland has a world-renowned reputation for engineering, and is at the cutting-edge of engineering developments. Engineers design, create, test and improve all sorts of products and processes. They have an impact on every aspect of modern living and enjoy exciting career opportunities in lots of different sectors, including space, aviation, transport, medicine, technology, food, fashion and construction.

If you've got a logical and inquisitive mind, enjoy problem solving and are curious to know how things work, you've got it in you to make a great engineer! Right now, qualified engineers are in extremely high demand, with thousands of new engineers needed every year in Scotland alone.

Ayrshire College is an ideal choice for studying Engineering:

  • We have STEM Assured Status which means we have been recognised for the quality of our Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths courses.
  • We've invested in our equipment, so you'll be learning using the latest industry standard technology.
  • We won Training Partner of the Year at the prestigious SEMTA (Science, Engineering and Manufacturing Technologies Alliance) Skills Awards in 2017.
  • We've also got an excellent record of employment for our engineering students.

For entry to this course you'll need:

  • A real interest in working in engineering.
  • A minimum of of grade C or above in Higher Maths and/or Physics OR a relevant NC course at SCQF Level 6 or equivalent, such as NC Manufacturing Engineering.
  • An interview with us.

If you don't have any formal qualifications, but have appropriate experience or other training, we'll also consider you for a place, so please call us for a chat.

Entry Requirements

To study on this course, you'll need:

  • A genuine interest in working in engineering.
  • Minimum grade C in Higher Maths and/or Physics OR Relevant NC course at SCQF Level 6 or equivalent (eg NC Electrical Engineering and Electronics, NC Manufacturing Engineering).
  • An interview with us.

No formal qualifications? No problem! If you have relevant experience or training, we'll consider your application. Call us for a chat and explore your potential.

For employed candidates this course is also available on Part Time/Day Release basis.

To discuss this option and to obtain further information please contact the department by emailing claire.docherty@ayrshire.ac.uk.

Course Content

Learn about the design of products and manufacturing processes, and synchronising mechanical structures with electronic control. Gain in-demand skills and knowledge across key engineering areas, including:

  • Mechatronic Systems.
  • Robotics and Animatronics.
  • Electrical Engineering and Interfacing Electronics.
  • Pneumatics and Hydraulics.
  • CAD and Programming.
  • Applications of PLCs (Programmable Logic Controllers).

You'll train practically, using advanced equipment such as collaborative robots, Siemens PLC systems, and SMC training rigs.

Next Steps and Career Opportunities

Your journey doesn't end here; it's a launchpad to various opportunities:

  • Articulate directly into Year 2 of full-time study at the University of Glasgow*, completing your undergraduate degree within four years (or five for MEng progression).
  • Receive college support for a UCAS application for university entry to various degree programs, including Aeronautical Engineering, Biomedical Engineering, Mechanical Design Engineering, and more.

*Successful progression depends on completing the course, passing all units, achieving an A pass in the Graded Unit exam, and a successful UCAS application.