Engineering: NQ (Level 4)
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Course overview
Build the foundations for your future in construction and engineering.
The NQ Civil Engineering (Level 6) course provides a practical and technical introduction to one of the UK’s most essential industries. It’s ideal for anyone looking to develop the knowledge and skills needed to begin a career in construction, infrastructure, or engineering design.
As Scotland’s largest college provider of Civil Engineering, Glasgow Kelvin College offers a clear pathway from this NQ through to HNC, HND, and degree-level study, as well as routes into Foundation, Modern, and Graduate Apprenticeships.
You’ll learn about the design, materials, and management processes that support modern construction projects — from roads and bridges to environmental systems. The course combines theory, hands-on project work, and computer-based design, helping you build both confidence and employability.
This course is ideal if you:
- Have an interest in how buildings and infrastructure are designed and built.
- Want to gain practical and technical skills for the construction or civil engineering industries.
- Are considering a career as a technician, surveyor, or apprentice engineer.
- Plan to progress to HNC or HND Civil Engineering at Glasgow Kelvin College.
What you will learn
You’ll develop knowledge and skills across a range of technical disciplines in civil engineering, with a strong focus on design, analysis, and problem-solving.
Core Topics Include:
- Civil Engineering Technology, Materials & Testing – understand material properties, construction methods, and how to ensure quality and performance.
- Contract & Project Management – explore project delivery processes, budgeting, and communication across teams.
- Construction & Site Surveying – develop skills in measurement, setting out, and interpreting technical drawings.
- Structural Mechanics – learn the principles of load, stress, and material behaviour.
- Geotechnics & Highways – study soil mechanics, foundations, and transportation systems.
- Computer-Aided Design (CAD) – create accurate technical drawings and digital models.
- Mathematics for Civil Engineers – apply analytical techniques to design and problem-solving tasks.
You’ll also complete specialist and graded units, combining technical knowledge with professional practice to prepare for higher-level study or supervisory roles.
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
✅ Successful completion of an NQ Level 5 course in a related subject.
Equivalent qualifications and mature applicants will also be considered.
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
This course provides an excellent starting point for careers such as:
🏗️ Trainee Civil Engineering Technician
📐 Construction or Site Assistant
💧 Water or Environmental Technician
🧭 Surveying Assistant
💻 CAD Technician
It’s also ideal for learners seeking entry-level roles in construction or local authority departments.
