Modern Methods of Construction for England - NTU in Mansfield Higher National Certificate
- Level(s) of Study: Undergraduate
- Typical Offer: 64 UCAS tariff points
- UCAS Code(s): K223
- Start Date(s): September 2024
- Duration: One year full-time, or two years part-time
- Study Mode(s): Full-time / Part-time (day)
- Campus: NTU in Mansfield
Introduction:
Explore innovative pathways at NTU Mansfield, tailored for local job markets. Our hands-on courses are designed for real-world impact.
To meet the UK's 2050 net-zero goal, this cutting-edge programme focuses on sustainable construction, aligning with the booming low/zero-carbon sectors. Acquire the knowledge and skills to lead in transforming the built environment, capitalising on emerging employment opportunities.
Centered on modern construction methods, this course addresses the industry's carbon footprint. Dive into applied work to tackle technical, social, and economic challenges in the shift to zero carbon.
With a focus on design, manufacture, and installation using advanced technologies in the construction, you'll gain essential skills for a construction, civils and services industry prioritising global de-carbonisation and sustainability. Elevate yourself as a reflective professional ready to make a positive impact.
-
You'll study at our NTU in Mansfield University Hub, where you'll have access to fantastic buildings, and all of the tools and technology you need for studying on this course. -
The course is delivered full-time for two days per week, enabling you to fit learning around your work and other commitments. You'll also have opportunities to undertake additional placements during the year. -
This course prepares you to progress to a range of roles in the construction industry and the opportunity to continue your studies on a university degree course. -
Developed in collaboration with a range of employers, students and subject experts, this course is designed to meet the changing needs of industry.
What you’ll study
This course, offered over one year full-time or two years part-time, comprises 120 credits in 15-credit modules.
It explores the construction and built environment sector including civil engineering & building services engineering, emphasising building design, off-site construction, and emerging technologies. Practical experiences, including industry projects and placements, provide opportunities for collaboration, client interaction, and real-life scenario evaluations.
The programme aims to develop flexibility, resilience, and key transferable skills valued by employers, ensuring students are well-prepared for the dynamic demands of the construction industry.
Principles of Alternative Energy
Construction Technology
Digital Applications for Construction Information
Tender & Procurement
The Construction Environment
Building Information Modelling
Construction Design Project
Principles of Off-site Construction
Principles of Alternative Energy
15 Credits
- Buildings use about 40% of global energy, 25% of global water and 40% of global resources in their construction and operation. Governments around the world have recognised the importance of tackling energy consumption in the built environment, and have instituted legislation to address these issues. These have often been supported by financial incentives to implement alternative energy systems and processes. They are also governed by rigorous targets and deadlines. Technologies that harness solar, wind and hydro energy are now established systems for generating power and heat. Along with other innovations such as heat pumps and bio-fuel, these are often incorporated into the design for new construction projects.
- The aim of this unit is to develop your knowledge of current and future energy technologies and to apply that knowledge in analysis and assessment of its effectiveness. You will also be called upon to apply that knowledge and research to a design activity. On successful completion of this unit you will be able to research and design alternative energy systems and assess new technologies available to the construction industry.
Construction Technology
15 Credits
- The aim of this module is to explore the technological and philosophical aspects of modern construction techniques and processes. Supported by case studies and laboratory work, it is anticipated that you will be enthused and stimulated into continuing your own further self- development and studies in this field. You will be encouraged to undertake research in relevant topic areas to enhance and improve upon the direct contact learning experience provided.
- This module will primarily focus on industrial and commercial buildings. It will also consider international construction methods and materials. Sustainability is an intrinsic driver in all construction matters and its consideration will be an overriding requirement in this module. The key aim of the module is for you to understand modern and traditional technologies as applied to building work.
Digital Applications for Construction Information
No Credit Points
- Building Information Modelling (BIM) and the use of data in the planning, construction and operation of built assets has become commonplace for both large and small projects. The ability to manage projects throughout their lifecycle, using a common data set, has the potential to impact on the built environment in numerous ways such as supporting efficiency, reducing costs and driving sustainability. However, for this to be achieved there is a need for the development of consistent, accurate and accessible data. While BIM is, effectively, a process of information management through a project lifecycle, it is most often based on the use of digital applications to generate project data. In this, the model is central in the process of designing and producing information that will facilitate construction and, later, the operation of the built asset.
- In this unit, students will explore the key processes in using digital applications to produce data and construction information that will enable the BIM process. Through completion of this unit, students may have the opportunity to achieve vendor certification in industry-standard Building Information Modelling systems.
Tender & Procurement
15 Credits
- The basic principles of construction technology have not changed for hundreds of years. However, the materials and techniques used to achieve these basic principles are constantly evolving to enable the construction industry to deliver better quality buildings. Scarcity of resources and the continuing demand of more sophisticated clients, end users and other stakeholder interests, are driving the construction industry to provide buildings that facilitate enhanced environmental and energy performance, and greater flexibility. This is in response to ever-increasing financial, environmental, legal and economic constraints.
- This unit introduces the different technological concepts used to enable the construction of building elements, from substructure to completion, by understanding the different functional characteristics and design considerations that need to be borne in mind when selecting the most suitable technological solution.
The Construction Environment
No Credit Points
- Construction is a complex and dynamic sector of the local, regional, national and international economy. In many countries it is a driving force in the growth of finance, property and employment. This also means that it has considerable impact on many factors beyond its direct influence on the buildings and infrastructure that are created and maintained.
- The construction industry is one of the major contributors to CO2 emissions. Also, the way that buildings are designed, constructed and maintained means they have an ongoing impact on the environment. Similarly, as a major employer, the industry has an ongoing impact on the working conditions of those in the sector and the way that people are educated, trained and supported through their careers. In this unit, students will explore the make-up and the impact of the construction industry on the environment and society.
- By exploring the roles and relationships of individuals and organisations in the construction sector, students will gain an overview of the organisational and the personal ways in which the sector works to continue to improve the built environment and limit its impact on the environment, while maintaining economic sustainability and growth
Building Information Modelling
15 Credits
- The aim of this unit is to provide you with the background knowledge and understanding of Building Information Modelling (BIM) in the context of the construction industry. You will be introduced to the drivers and benefits associated with BIM, as well as the terminology which surrounds BIM. Topics included in this unit are: the relationship between design, construction and operation, and the relevance of information management in regard to BIM and how these concepts influence the entire process of the way an asset is managed and maintained.
- The knowledge and skills gained in this unit will allow you to understand the importance of Building Information Modelling in the context of current roles and responsibilities that exist within the construction industry, and effectively understand how this may influence future choices in their professional career.
Construction Design Project
15 Credits
- The success of any project relies on the development of a good design and the technical information to allow the project to be built. The aim of this unit is to help you to appreciate and be aware of the design process and the information required to communicate the design itself, specify and quantify materials, provide instructions for the assembly and erection, and facilitate precise costing and project management. Topics included in this unit are: project phases; construction drawing; detailing; Computer Aided Design (CAD); Building Information Modelling (BIM); schedules; specifications; bills of quantities; information collaboration.
- On successful completion of the unit, you will be able to analyse scenarios, make decisions and produce drawings and specifications to achieve appropriate, creative and innovative home design proposals
Principles of Off-site Construction
15 Credits
- Construction, in the 21st century, is (in the majority of cases) still carried out along the same principles as medieval construction. Large amounts of material are delivered to a building site where weather conditions and physical constraints can cause not just delays and defects but often unattractive working conditions. Off-site construction offers a range of potential benefits for increasing the efficiency, accuracy and quality of the end product.
- In this unit, you will explore different approaches to off-site construction, focused on housing development and delivery. This includes modular construction, factory construction, automation and robotics, and 3D printing. Students will consider the way in which off-site processes and technologies may influence housing design and delivery. By the end of this unit you will be able to assess potential options for off-site production, in the housing market, and develop design and manufacture strategies to enable housing delivery.
How you’re taught
In your Higher National Certificate programme, you'll be actively engaged through diverse learning approaches, both individually and collaboratively. Small group activities and discussions, along with learning technology like podcasts and online tools, offer flexibility and accessibility. Access module resources in different formats, tailored to your learning needs and professional development goals.
The programme, designed for work-based learning, incorporates input from employers to ensure practicality and cost-effectiveness. Explore various teaching strategies, including workshops and one-to-one support through face-to-face or distance learning technologies.
How you’re assessed
Assessment in the course includes diverse methods such as practical tasks, reports, presentations, portfolios, and group projects. Some modules involve online or in-person seminar contributions, with coursework often based on employer-set themes, allowing real-world application. The varied assessment methods aim to showcase achievements, enhance communication skills, and provide feedback throughout each module. Self, peer, and group assessments may be incorporated, emphasising both individual understanding and collaborative skills development.
Careers and employability
Further study
Students who successfully complete the HNC Modern Methods of Construction for England course will have the opportunity to progress to one of the following courses:
- BSc (Hons) Construction Management full-time, part-time or sandwich routes (Year Two entry)
- BSc (Hons) Quantity Surveying and Commercial Management full-time, part-time or sandwich routes (Year Two entry)
- BSc (Hons) Building Surveying full-time, part-time or sandwich routes (Year One entry)
- Level 6 Degree Apprenticeship Pathways:
- BSc (Hons) Property Development and Planning (Year One entry)
- BSc (Hons) Property Finance and Investment (Year One entry)
- BSc (Hons) Real Estate (Year One entry)
Employment opportunities
The course's focus on specialist technical skills and knowledge provides students with a clear set of skills and goals for entering employment. Typical jobs related to this course may include:
- Civil Engineering Project Manager, Civil Engineering Technician, Building Services Engineering Project Manager, Site Supervisor Civil Engineering/BSE Engineering, Quantity Surveyor Civil Engineering, BSE, Tunnel Surveyor, Housing Design Technician, Housing Project Manager, Off-site Construction Manager, BIM Technician, Digital Design Technician, Architectural Technologist, Planning Officer, Building Control Officer.
Employability team
Our expert Employability team will work closely with you at every stage of your career planning, providing personal support and advice. You can benefit from this service at any time during your studies and for up to three years after completing your course.
NTU Enterprise
You'll also have the opportunity to turn your ideas into a viable business with help from NTU Enterprise, NTU's purpose-built Centre for Entrepreneurship and Enterprise, a support centre to help students create, develop and grow their own businesses.
Campus and facilities
We are continually investing in our facilities and transforming our learning and teaching environment to create an inspiring and innovative atmosphere. The NTU HE centre is based at the West Nottinghamshire University Hub in Mansfield. It's equipped with the latest facilities and state-of-the-art technology.
Further investment is in progress to ensure all the needs of the HNC Future Homes Design and Construction course are fully met. Facilities include high specification computer-aided design suite and laboratories, in addition to a range of campus-wide spaces:
- Diner and Courtyard Café
- Learning resource centre
- Social spaces
- Sports hall
- Student support services
- Students' Union
- Dedicated study zones including PC suites.
Entry requirements
64 UCAS Tariff points
What are we looking for?
- 64 UCAS Tariff points or equivalent; or
- BTEC Level 3 qualification in construction or a related subject - MPP; or
- A Levels - DDE; or
- Level 3 T Level in one of the following:
- Craft and Design
- Design and development for engineering and manufacturing
- Design, surveying and planning for construction
- On-site construction
- Science
and
- GCSEs – English and Maths grade C / 4.
The following qualifications will also be considered:
- Other related Level 3 qualifications
- Access to Higher Education Diploma from an approved further education institution
- Relevant work experience, or an international equivalent to the above qualifications.
Other qualifications and experience
We consider equivalent qualifications and combinations, please see UCAS course search for details and use our calculator to help you work out how many UCAS points your qualifications relate to.
If you don't have enough UCAS points, you'll need to demonstrate over two years of work experience in a relevant profession. You can detail this in your personal statement when applying.
We may also consider credits achieved at other universities and your work/life experience through an assessment of prior learning. This may be for Year One entry, or beyond the beginning of a course where applicable, for example, into Year Two. Our Recognition of Prior Learning and Credit Transfer Policy outlines the process and options available for this route.
Getting in touch
If you need more help or information, get in touch through our enquiry form.
Meeting our entry requirements
Hundreds of qualifications in the UK have UCAS tariff points attached to specific grades, including A levels, BTECs, T Levels and many more. You can use your grades and points from up to four different qualifications to meet our criteria. Enter your predicted or achieved grades into our tariff calculator to find out how many points your qualifications are worth.
Getting in touch
If you need more help or information, get in touch through our enquiry form
This course is not suitable for tier 4 visa applicants.
We accept qualifications from schools, colleges and universities all over the world for entry onto our undergraduate and postgraduate degrees. If you’re not sure how your international qualification matches our course requirements please visit our international qualifications page.
We have undergraduate Architecture courses which are suitable for tier 4 visa applicants. Here is a list of all the undergraduate courses we offer.
Fees and funding
Preparing for the financial side of student life is important, but there's no need to feel anxious and confused about it. Take a look at our fees and funding pages for lots of handy advice and guidance.
*Please note that if you are considering a course that runs over more than one year, the tuition fee stated is for the first year of study. The course fee for the second year may be subject to annual review.
Additional costs
Your course fees cover the cost of studies, and include loads of great benefits, such as the use of our brand-new library, industry-standard workshops and study spaces, support from our expert Employability team, and free use of the IT equipment across our campuses.
Library books
You’ll need to cover the cost of your own books, standard drawing and writing equipment and consumables. However, our NTU in Mansfield library is home to a wide range of books, journals and materials (many of which you can access online) – meaning you may not need to purchase as many books as you might think! Our library team work closely with our academics to ensure that our library collection closely matches the topics you’ll be studying, to provide relevant resources for you to use, free of charge.
Printing and materials costs
Students should also budget approximately £100 per year to cover any printing that they may require to support their studies.
Getting in touch
For more advice and guidance, you can contact our Student Financial Support Service.
Tel: +44 (0)115 848 2494
This course is not suitable for tier 4 visa applicants.
We accept qualifications from schools, colleges and universities all over the world for entry onto our undergraduate and postgraduate degrees. If you’re not sure how your international qualification matches our course requirements please visit our international qualifications page.
How to apply
For the full-time course, apply through UCAS.
For the part-time course, apply directly through out portal.
As part of your application, you’ll submit a personal statement. Tell us about your ambitions, skills and experience. You have 4,000 characters to impress us – here’s how to make your words count.
Keeping up to date
After you've applied, we'll be sending you important emails throughout the application process – so check your emails regularly, including your junk mail folder.
You can get more information and advice about applying to NTU on our Your Application page.