Where will this course lead?

Product Design & Development Engineers work on all stages of product creation, product modification and product componentry. They support activities ranging on early concept feasibility, Computer Aided Design and other modelling, activities and stages through to final preparation for launch and customers. This includes working in  concept studios, rapid prototyping, assembly, testing, validating and analysing performance.

Typically, they work closely with suppliers and managers in bring new concepts to life or contributing to redesigns of existing products.

What will I study?

This apprenticeship is formed of several qualifications

The technical qualifications may include the following pathways (employer requirements may determine the route chosen)

- HNC in Manufacturing, Mechanical, General or Electrical & Electronic Engineering
- Foundation Degree in either Mechanical or Electrical & Electronic Engineering
- BEng (Hons) in either Mechanical Design or Electrical & Electronic Engineering

We regularly review our course content, to make it relevant and current for the benefit of our students. For these reasons, course modules may be updated, please contact us for the latest information.

How will this course be delivered?

These courses are delivered through classroom teaching, practical workshops and computer-based workshops.

You will have the opportunity to complete practical workshops, develop CAD skills within our Advanced Manufacturing Centre, programme robots and automation systems and model hydraulic systems.

In parallel with college attendance, you will develop and apply knowledge, skills and behaviours (KSB) in your workplace.

The college will be allocate you an assessor / coach who will work with you and your employer throughout your degree apprenticeship to support the development of the knowledge, skills and behaviours and evidence required for your end point assessment.

What qualifications will I get?

Degree Apprenticeship Standard: Product Design and Development Engineer.

Upon successful completion of the academic and vocational elements, you will attain a BEng degree and, additionally, a certificate of vocational competence.

This standard has been designed to meet the professional standards of the Engineering Council for initial registration as an Engineering Technician (Eng Tech) in partnership with the Institution of Mechanical Engineers. Further professional development and registration is subject to candidates successfully completing the appropriate learning, developing the appropriate competence, and undergoing professional review.

How will I be assessed?

The subject units are assessed in a variety of ways; some are assessed by assignments which may involve working in groups or independently and marked by your teachers using awarding body criteria.

Some assignments are assessed whilst undertaking practical activities or by completing written assignments

Other modules or qualifications may be assessed using externally marked exams.

End Point Assessment: The final vocational assessment will consist of a case studies presentation to showcase the work that you have completed during your apprenticeship and an Occupational Professional Discussion.

How do I get a place on the course?

Employers can receive advice and support from the Employer Services team at Solihull College and University Centre

What are the entry requirements?

In order to optimise success candidates will typically have 5 GCSE's at Grade C/4 or above, including Mathematics, English and a Science, Technology or Engineering related subject, as well as A Levels at grade C or above in both a Mathematical based subject and a Science, Technology, Engineering or additional Mathematics related subject, or 90+ credits in an Engineering BTEC.

Apprentices/Students who have already achieved one or more qualifications within this apprentice standard may be eligible to join part-way through the course, thereby reducing the length of study.

Employers are welcome to engage with our full-time learners already studying engineering qualifications if they need assistance in recruiting apprentices. Links can be made through the College Employer Services team.

What else do I need to know?

Please contact the College Employer Services Business Advisors for more information about funding and costs.

Apprentices/Employers are expected to provide appropriate Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

Please contact the College Employer Services Business Advisors, or the Head of School of Engineering with any additional questions.

What can I do after this course?

You may be able to progress onto studies at Masters level following this apprenticeship.