HNC Chemical Engineering

The following optional guidance can be used to support delivery and assessment as an alternative to the approaches outlined in the Group Award / Unit specification.

Optional assessment guidance 2023-24

Higher National qualifications have been developed by SQA in partnership with colleges, universities and industry ¿ so employers recognise that they provide sound evidence of ability.

The unit-based structure supports flexibility. A unit is typically 40 hours of timetabled learning.

There is a wide choice of optional units which will enable centres to offer courses tailored to meet local needs.

This HNC provides progression routes to further study (see Progression). 

The HNC Chemical Engineering is suitable for a wide range of learners including:

• school leavers
• adult returners to education
• individuals in employment who wish to enhance their career prospects 

Access

As with all SQA qualifications, entry is at the discretion of the centre. Examples of formal entry qualifications include:

• a minimum of two Highers from Chemistry, Mathematics or Physics at grade C or above, with appropriate supporting passes at National 5 level (or equivalent SCQF level 5) in appropriate science subjects and Mathematics.
• NC Applied Sciences (which includes Physics units)
• qualifications in appropriate science, chemical engineering and mathematics programmes, such as access programmes ¿ learners should have gained some units at higher level in appropriate science, chemical engineering and mathematics programmes
•  suitable work experience gained in a chemical engineering/process setting 

Progression and employment

HNCs and HNDs can provide progression to degree-level study. The HNC Chemical Engineering may allow direct entry into the second year of some degree programmes.

Higher National qualifications may also provide the knowledge and understanding required for related Modern Apprenticeships, eg the Modern Apprenticeship in Chemical Process Engineering and Related Industries.

What you'll learn?

The HNC Chemical Engineering builds on candidates' existing knowledge, and their exposure to the systems and processes used in the chemical industry, to develop their knowledge and skills in chemical engineering. It will develop candidates' skills and enhance their employment prospects by providing a wide range of theoretical and practical knowledge. It also develops 'soft' skills such as working in a team environment, producing reports, and communication. 

Centres with devolved authority for approval should use their own internal approval process.

Centres without devolved authority will have to come forward for approval and should contact SQA's Business Development Team for guidance.

Assessors and verifiers must be able to meet SQA's general requirements for technical/occupational competence as outlined in the Guide to Approval

Each individual unit specification gives detailed information on the evidence requirements and approaches to assessment for each unit.

Ongoing course assessment will apply.