Engineering: NQ (Level 4)
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Course overview
Take the next step in your civil engineering career while continuing to work.
The NC Civil Engineering (Level 6, Day Release) course provides a strong technical foundation for individuals already employed in the construction or engineering sectors.
It’s ideal for those beginning their journey in civil engineering who want to build their knowledge and skills while remaining in employment.
This qualification develops your understanding of key engineering and construction principles — from materials and measurement to surveying, CAD and project planning — helping you gain confidence in applying theory to practice in the workplace.
At Glasgow Kelvin College, Scotland’s largest college provider of civil engineering education, you’ll benefit from industry-experienced lecturers, hands-on learning and progression routes to HNC, HND and professional qualifications.
This course is ideal if you:
- Are currently employed in a construction or engineering-related role.
- Want to build technical and design skills to support your professional development.
- Are aiming to progress into a technician, surveying or site support role.
- Hope to advance to HNC or HND Civil Engineering study while continuing to work.
What you will learn
You’ll study the fundamental technical subjects that underpin civil engineering, learning how engineering theory connects to on-site application.
Core Topics Include:
- Civil Engineering Technology and Materials – understand how materials are selected, tested and used in construction.
- Site Surveying and Measurement – develop skills in measurement, setting out and survey equipment.
- Mechanics and Structural Principles – explore load, stress and stability in engineering design.
- Project Management and Costing – gain practical insight into planning, resource management and budgeting.
- Computer-Aided Design (CAD) – produce accurate technical drawings and models using industry software.
- Mathematics for Engineering Applications – apply analytical and numerical skills to solve practical problems.
- Health and Safety – learn the standards and legislation essential for safe working in construction.
Entry requirements
Applicants should have one of the following:
✅ Three National 5 qualifications at Grade C or above (including Maths or Physics) OR
✅ Suitable construction qualifications and/or relevant experience OR
✅ NQ Level 5 course in a related subject.
Applicants must also be in related employment to undertake this day-release programme.
Equivalent qualifications and mature applicants will be considered individually.
ℹ️ All applicants must be 16 years or over by 30 September of the course year.
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
Graduates from this course can progress within the civil engineering sector into roles such as:
🏗️ Trainee Civil Engineering Technician
📐 Site or Survey Assistant
💧 Water or Environmental Technician
💻 CAD Technician
🧱 Construction Operative or Estimator Assistant
The qualification demonstrates initiative and commitment to development — attributes valued by employers across the engineering and construction industries.
Future prospects
An NC in Civil Engineering provides a recognised route to:
- The HNC or HND Civil Engineering programmes at Glasgow Kelvin College.
- Further study at university level or entry to a Modern Apprenticeship.
- Career advancement within construction, infrastructure and design organisations.
