Course Description
Study Automotive Engineering at Somerset College and you’ll have access to our brand-new, purpose-built facilities. We specialise in engine mapping, advanced diagnostics, vehicle performance enhancement, advanced vehicle technology and hybrid vehicles - and our staff are among the best in the country when it comes to their knowledge and expertise.
Thanks to our close working relationship with the automotive industry, our courses provide the perfect preparation for life in the real world, and our students are highly employable. Our focus throughout is on equipping you with practical skills, and you will have a chance to use a wide range of tools, techniques, equipment and software. During the course, you will:
gain a clear understanding of the fundamentals of engineering and the skills required to apply that knowledge effectively
learn how to assess the risks involved in engineering work and quickly gain a thorough understanding of the need to develop and apply safe systems of working
study ECU mapping and programming
study hybrid technology
conduct research into engine power enhancement Modules studied include:
Power Train Technology
Vehicle Technology
Advanced Vehicle Performance Engineering
Engineering Design
Fault Diagnostics and Repair
Instrumentation and Control
Materials
Vehicle Electrical and Electronic Systems
Engineering Science
Mathematics
Automotive Industry Management and Organisation
Organisation Engineering Drawing and CAD
Manufacturing Processes
Project
Engineering Design
Business and Finance
In addition, you will have the chance to attend the Autosport and Engineering Show at the NEC in Birmingham, as well as presentations and lectures held at a number of other institutions.
Teaching and Assessment
Assessment is by assignments, examinations and presentations. You will be required to complete both individual and group projects. Thanks to our recent investment of £3.5 million in a new Automotive Centre, you will have the chance to work on the very latest equipment in the industry, and make use of Snap-On-Tools. So your skills will be refined, and focused on meeting the needs of potential employers.
Progression Opportunities
On successful completion of the FdSc course you may be able to progress to one further year of study for the BSc (Hons) Mechanical Design and Manufacture degree at Plymouth University.
Please note there is a deadline for progression applications and places may be subject to availability.
Career Progression
This qualification significantly improves your employment prospects in motorsport, the retail motor industry or the road transport sector. Previous graduates have pursued rewarding careers at companies such as Cosworth, Lotus Cars, Honda and VOSA.
The Certificate of Higher Education (CertHE)
Entry Requirements
Applicants need a relevant National Diploma (PPP) or AS/A2 Levels (minimum 120 points, including 80 points at A2 Level). An NVQ Level 3 or CGLI Level 3 in Motor Vehicle Studies will suffice, as will an IMI Level 3 qualification or Advanced Diploma or Access Certificate. We also like students to have GCSE English Language at a minimum of Grade C.
Mature students who do not meet these formal entry requirements are welcome to apply, if they can evidence their interest in the field of study.
