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Home » Courses » BTEC Level 3 National Extended Diploma in Engineering

BTEC Level 3 National Extended Diploma in Engineering

A full-time programme of study designed to equip learners with the knowledge and understanding required for success in a range of mechanical and electrical/electronic engineering occupations. This course is equivalent to 3 A Levels.

Why Choose This Course?

This advanced, two-year full-time course is designed for young people who have an interest in broad engineering disciplines and wish to gain a nationally recognised qualification at Level 3. It is ideal if you want to progress to university, an advanced Apprenticeship or employment. The qualification is also suitable for learners who have not yet decided on a particular engineering specialism and who wish to gain a broader understanding of engineering.

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Start date: 08/09/2025

Course code
FDENGIN25B
Level
Level 3
Location
STEM & Health Skills Centre Bodmin
Duration
2 years
Qualification
Extended Diploma

Top Course Highlights

Study Practical Skills

Simulated Working Environments

Quality Careers

'Work Ready' Qualification

A member of staff draws out equations and numbers on a whiteboard.

Learn from sector experts

You will be taught by staff with extensive experience who will advance your knowledge and skills to meet the expectations of the engineering industry.

An image of equipment from the engineering bay.

Enjoy professional environments

Enjoy modern workshops that are second to none within a further education setting. With a wide range of different machine tools and equipment.

A member of staff speaks to a group of students who are gathered around listening.

Develop skills in line with industry needs

Learn skills that are required in industry, enhancing not only your knowledge and practical ability but also your future employability.

What Will I Learn?

The programme is broken down into modules of delivery which are covered during your time at college with your tutor. An example of what you will be covering is detailed below:

  • Engineering Principles
  • Delivering Engineering Processes
  • Product Design & Manufacture
  • Applied Commercial & Quality Principles
  • Specialist Project
  • Microcontroller Systems
  • Calculus [Mathematics]
  • Further Engineering Mathematics
  • Electronic Devices & Components
  • Analogue Electronic Circuits
  • Mechanical Behaviour of Metallic Materials
  • Static Mechanical Principles

Behaviours

Personal responsibility and resilience: Comply with the health and safety guidance and procedures, be disciplined and have a responsible approach to risk, work diligently regardless of how much they are being supervised, accept responsibility for managing time and workload and stay motivated and committed when facing challenges.

Work effectively in teams: Integrate with the team, support other people, consider implications of their own actions on other people and the business whilst working effectively to get the task completed.

Effective communication and interpersonal skills: An open and honest communicator, communicates clearly using appropriate methods, listen well to others and have a positive and respectful attitude.

Focus on quality and problem solving: Follow instructions and guidance, demonstrate attention to detail, follow a logical approach to problem solving and seek opportunities to improve quality, speed and efficiency.

Continuous personal development: Reflect on skills, knowledge and behaviours and seek opportunities to develop, adapt to different situations, environments or technologies and have a positive attitude to feedback and advice.

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Where Will It Take Me?

The course gives learners specialist knowledge and technical skills, enabling entry to an Apprenticeship or other employment, or progression to related higher education (university) courses.

Upon completion of the course, employment areas may include; Engineering Technician, Electrical Engineer, Mechanical Engineer, Rail Design Engineers, Manufacturing Engineer, Production Management.

Assessment Arrangements

The employer in consultation with the training provider will make the judgement as to whether the Apprentice is ready for end-point assessment through the achievement of the following: Level 2 National Vocational Qualification (NVQ) in Engineering and a recognised Level 2 English and Mathematics qualification. On conclusion that the assessment gateway requirements have been achieved, you will be able to proceed to the end-point assessment stage of the Apprenticeship. It is expected that you will complete the assessment gateway requirements within three months of your planned Apprenticeship completion.

Assessment

Learners will be assessed through projects, coursework, assignments and externally set assessments and examinations.  Success will be tracked though the year to form a final grade, giving UCAS points in the same way as A Level grades.

Entry Requirements

To enrol on the Pearson BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma in Engineering you require successful completion of the Year 1 BTEC Level 2 in Engineering or GCSE Grade 4 in at least five subjects (which should include English, and a Science) and at least a Grade 5 in Maths.

Additional Information

PPE

We provide all of the tools and materials for the course, however you will be responsible for your own PPE and will be required to come equipped with a pair of steel to capped boots and a pair of safety glasses.

Awarding Body: EAL

Meet the staff, tour the campus and find out about life as a student at one of the best colleges in the country.

What you could earn

  • Mechanical Engineers
  • Vehicle Technicians, Mechanics and Electricians
  • Electrical and Electronics Technicians
  • Electronics Engineers
  • Assemblers (Electrical and Electronic Products)
  • Electrical and Electronic Trades
  • Electrical Engineers
  • Electricians and Electrical Fitters
Potential Salary

£64,939

Entry Level Salary

£26,418

Average Salary

£44,121

Annual openings in Cornwall

8

Potential Salary

£44,860

Entry Level Salary

£18,464

Average Salary

£29,408

Annual openings in Cornwall

23

Potential Salary

£55,688

Entry Level Salary

£23,725

Average Salary

£36,689

Annual openings in Cornwall

5

Potential Salary

£71,688

Entry Level Salary

£28,731

Average Salary

£47,655

Annual openings in Cornwall

6

Potential Salary

£37,989

Entry Level Salary

£16,341

Average Salary

£24,853

Annual openings in Cornwall

3

Potential Salary

£57,074

Entry Level Salary

£26,678

Average Salary

£38,885

Annual openings in Cornwall

7

Potential Salary

£78,634

Entry Level Salary

£34,058

Average Salary

£52,273

Annual openings in Cornwall

14

Potential Salary

£54,238

Entry Level Salary

£22,834

Average Salary

£36,953

Annual openings in Cornwall

51

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Penwith College

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STEM & Health Skills Centre

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STEM & Health Skills Centre,
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University Centre Truro & Penwith,
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Future Skills Institute

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Email: futureskills@truro-penwith.ac.uk

Truro & Penwith College,
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