Mechanical and Electrical Engineering - Rail Route: NQ (Level 5)

What you will learn

Predominately a practical course taught on campus in modern well-equipped workshops and underpinning knowledge in well-resourced learning environments.

• Engineering ICT – Effective use of software used in an engineering environment.
• CAD – 2D computer aided draughting using industry leading software.
• Engineering Materials – What and where they are used in industry.
• Pipework Skills – Learn how to Form and Assemble Pipework Systems.
• Electrical Wiring – How to Wire and Test Electrical Equipment and Circuits.
• Electrical Principles – Understanding basic electrical concepts.
• Health & Safety – Current legislation and use of Risk Assessments.
• Communications – Learn effective methods of communicating in engineering.
• Workshop Skills – How to prepare and manufacture components to a specification using a range of engineering tools and equipment safely.
• Maths Craft 1 – Learn simple mathematical methods relating to engineering applications.
• Pneumatics & Hydraulics - Basic knowledge, understanding and skills of fluid power circuits.
• Electrical Test & Measurement – Learn how to use testing and measuring equipment to establish voltage, current and resistance values on various circuits.
• Engineering Skills 1 & 2 - Producing Components Using Hand Fitting Techniques 

Entry requirements

Applicants will be given an offer based on their application form and personal statement.

Applicants should have one of the following:

✅ Three National 4 qualifications, including English. OR

✅ Successful completion of the NQ Level 4 Engineering course. OR

✅ Other equivalent qualifications or relevant experience (considered individually).

Applicants will be asked to visit the college for a taster/information session where we can determine if this course meets your learning needs.

ℹ️ For this course, if English is not your first language

• you need to have SQA ESOL National 5 (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 prepares you for progression into engineering apprenticeships and entry-level roles across sectors such as rail, manufacturing, construction, and maintenance.

Typical roles include:

⚙️ Engineering Apprentice

🔧 Mechanical Engineering Operative

⚡ Electrical Engineering Operative

🏭 Manufacturing or Production Operative

🛠️ Maintenance Assistant

🚧 Rail Engineering Operative

Future prospects

Successful completion of the NQ Mechanical and Electrical Engineering (Level 5) course will strengthen your chances of securing a Modern Apprenticeship in Engineering.

You will also have the opportunity to progress to further study at SCQF Level 6, including courses such as:

• NQ Building Services Engineering
• NQ Mechanical Manufacturing Engineering
• NQ Electrical and Electronic Engineering

These progression routes support continued development within the engineering sector and help prepare you for skilled roles or further training.