Petroc

Higher National Certificate in Electronics

Institution code P51
Duration

2 years
Course type

Part-time
Study location Petroc (Barnstaple: North Devon)

Petroc is one of the largest colleges in Devon and is committed to driving forward educational success in further and higher education. 

We are passionate about raising the aspirations, knowledge and skills of individuals, and year after year our students produce exceptional results, enabling them to progress further in training or employment. 

Petroc has been delivering a range of degree-level courses for over 30 years and is proud to be able to provide a wide variety of programmes (from HNCs and Foundation Degrees to Higher Apprenticeships and Honours Degrees) in subject areas including education, computing, science, engineering, and health and care. 

Petroc has three campuses situated across North and Mid Devon with modern and stimulating learning environments. We also offer small classes, extensive student support and exceptional links to local industry. 

Visit the Petroc website to find out how we can help you go further in life.

Course details

  • Year 1

  • Core modules

    PETR1091
    Electronics

    This module provides an introduction to fundamental electronic theory considering a range of analogue and digital circuits and components so that students will have a firm base from which to work when they undertake further studies.

    PETR1092
    Analytical Methods

    This module focuses upon the mathematical strategies and processes involved in solving a wide range of engineering problems. Develops analytical and algebraic skills transferable to engineering subjects. Gives students the analytical tools to solve problems in their own field and also exposes them to the application of complex number, matrix methods, calculus and statistics across engineering.

    PETR1142
    Electrical and Electronic Fundamentals

    This module provides an introduction to electrical and electronic engineering including the key underlying theorems and concepts associated with circuits and components. Developing the both direct and alternating current analysis to form a basis for further studies. Basic level of complex analysis and waveforms is also explored.

  • Final year

  • Core modules

    PETR1097
    Level 4 Project

    This module is an individual investigation of an engineering problems through the application of agile scrum management philosophy. Student need to be proactive in managing their own learning, needing to find a solution to the task which will relate to a manufacturing situation.

    Optional modules

    PETR1095
    Introduction to Engineering Software

    This module explores the application of engineering software to support solutions to engineering problems. These can range from mathematical solutions such as the use of Matlab, to electronic simulation, programmable logic controllers, CNC programming. A range of engineering software will allow students to select and explore engineering solutions

    PETR1098
    Industrial Electronics

    This module provides an introduction to the basic electrical theory to industrial electronics. A topic which is increasingly required by technical staff to be prepared to work safely in industrial environments using electrical power controls. This module provides an understanding of the basic technical knowledge and skills required to appreciate modern industrial systems.

    PETR1141
    Mechatronics

    On successful completion of this unit students will be able to explain the basic mechatronic system components and functions, design a simple mechatronic system specification for a given application, use appropriate simulation and modelling software to examine its operation and function, and solve faults on mechatronic systems using a range of techniques and methods

    PETR1143
    Advanced CAD Techniques

    This module develops both 2D and 3D modelling skills and the use of computer simulation in support of engineering tasks. The principal activity will be developing a portfolio of engineering drawings and designs by working through graded tasks. Students’ produce working drawings and designs, where some are used produce animations and analysis.

The modules shown for this course are those currently being studied by our students, or are proposed new modules. Please note that programme structures and individual modules are subject to amendment from time to time as part of the University’s curriculum enrichment programme and in line with changes in the University’s policies and requirements.

Fees, costs and funding
As this course is delivered by one of our partner colleges, please contact the college directly for information on fees and funding.

* UK Government announcement on tuition fees

On Monday 4 November 2024, the UK Government announced a proposal to increase tuition fees for home undergraduate students from £9,250 to £9,535 per annum from September 2025 onwards. The University of Plymouth intends to apply this new fee from September 2025. However, implementation of this increase will be subject to parliamentary procedure. This change applies to new students starting their studies in September 2025. For current and returning students, the University is reviewing fees and will update you as soon as possible.

How to apply

For further information and to apply for this course, please contact the college's admissions team directly using the contact details below. 

Progression routes

Completing this course enables you to progress onto these related courses and programmes with the University of Plymouth at level 5 or level 6, as specifically defined by this programme’s progression agreement.

For further information, including the progression from foundation degree form, please visit https://www.plymouth.ac.uk/business-partners/partnerships/academic-partnerships/study-guide/progression-to-honours-degree

Our partnership with Petroc
The University of Plymouth has developed partnerships with institutions around the world with the sole purpose of making higher education more accessible to those people who need something just a little different.

Our Academic Partnerships enable students to enrol for a degree at a partnership institution closer to home, or engage in distance learning – even when they’re in the middle of the ocean. They are there for those people looking to return to education, or enhance their professional development. Full- or part-time; foundation degree to masters-level – we cater for a huge variety of needs and aspirations.

Many of our partners offer specialist degrees, unique facilities, and smaller class sizes at a competitive price. And as a student of two institutions, you get the best of both worlds; a supportive learning environment as part of a close-knit community, and a university-level qualification awarded by the University of Plymouth. You’ll enjoy not only the facilities and services your partnership institution provides, but also all of the additional support and resources you need from us, and you’ll automatically become a member of our Students’ Union, too.

We are continuing to grow the number of partner institutions and expand our academic community to new locations around the UK and overseas. Why not visit the Academic Partnerships page on our website for a full list of partners and for more details on studying with us?

One of our partners delivers this particular course – so please visit their website for full course details, entry requirements, tuition fees and information on what student life is like there. 

Please contact Petroc to apply for this course:

Petroc
Old Sticklepath Hill
Barnstaple
EX31 2BQ

Tel: +441271345291
Email: postbox@petroc.ac.uk

Open days

Partner college open days

This course is run at one of our partner colleges. Open days are held at the college and more details of these can be found on the college website. You'll find contact details below, on this page.

University of Plymouth open days

You are also very welcome to attend a University of Plymouth open day, to get a flavour of the courses you can progress to from a partner college. There will however be limited information on this specific course and college.

Studying with Petroc

With main campuses in Barnstaple, Tiverton and Brannams, if you decide to study at the combined college, you’ll be able to take advantage of increased resources and the plethora of learning opportunities associated with them.
Plymouth students working on a group project