Building Services - Engineering: NQ (Level 6)
Read more
Course overview
Gain industry-recognised skills while you work in Building Services Engineering.
The NQ Building Services Engineering (Level 6 – Day Release) course provides a strong introductory foundation in the key principles of Building Services Engineering — the systems that keep modern buildings safe, comfortable, and energy-efficient.
This one-year, part-time qualification is designed for those already in employment. You’ll study the design and management of essential building services systems, including heating, ventilation, air conditioning (HVAC), electrical installations, and plumbing. The course offers a clear, practical understanding of how these systems are planned, installed, and maintained in real buildings, with a focus on sustainability, efficiency, and industry standards.
Because this programme is delivered one day per week, you can continue building hands-on experience at work while developing the technical knowledge needed for progression. It’s an ideal route if you want to upskill, expand your responsibilities, or move into a more specialised building services role.
By the end of the course, you’ll have a solid grounding in Building Services Engineering and the confidence to progress to the HNC Building Services Engineering or further professional training.
This course is ideal if you:
- Are already working in a construction, plumbing, or electrical environment and want to build your technical knowledge.
- Would like to progress into Building Services Engineering or related design, installation, or maintenance roles.
- Need a recognised qualification to support an apprenticeship or industry role.
- Want to study one day per week while continuing to gain hands-on experience at work.
What you will learn
You’ll study one day per week, combining classroom-based learning with industry-focused assignments. The course gives you an understanding of how mechanical and electrical systems work together to create efficient, sustainable buildings.
- Building Services Engineering Science – explore the key physical and environmental principles that underpin building systems.
- Heating and Plumbing Technology – understand the design and operation of hot and cold water systems.
- Ventilation, Air Conditioning and Refrigeration – learn about airflow, temperature control, and system efficiency.
- Mathematics for Technicians – apply problem-solving and analytical methods to real engineering challenges.
- Engineering and Design Software – use digital tools to model, plan, and analyse building systems.
- Building Services Design Project – apply your learning to a practical project, simulating real-world engineering design work.
- Other Building Services Systems – gain awareness of a range of interconnected systems that contribute to energy efficiency and comfort.
Entry requirements
You should have one of the following:
✅ Three National 5 qualifications at grade C or above, including Maths or Physics. OR
✅ A relevant NQ Level 5 qualification in a construction-related subject. OR
✅ Suitable construction experience or qualifications that demonstrate technical ability.
ℹ️ For this course, if English is not your first language
- you need to have SQA ESOL Higher (or equivalent, click here to see equivalent qualifications)
- If you do not have a formal ESOL qualification but your language skills meet this level, you should apply for your course and then contact our Admissions team to organise an internal language assessment here at the College.
Career Opportunities
This qualification supports progression into technical and apprenticeship roles across the building services sector, including:
⚙️ Building Services Trainee Technician
🌬 HVAC / Refrigeration Apprentice or Assistant
💧 Plumbing & Heating Apprentice
🔌 Electrical Installation Apprentice
🏢 Facilities / Maintenance Assistant (FM)
💻 CAD / Building Services Design Assistant
With experience and further study (e.g., HNC), learners can progress to Design Technician, Commissioning Technician, Energy/Efficiency Officer, or Facilities Supervisor roles.
Future prospects
On successful completion, you’ll receive a National Qualification (NQ) in Building Services Engineering, with direct progression opportunities to:
- The HNC Building Services Engineering (full-time or day release).
This qualification provides a strong foundation for anyone looking to advance within the industry while maintaining work commitments.
