Higher Level Apprenticeship in Automotive Engineering (Subject to Approval)

The general entry requirements below identify the minimum qualifications needed to apply for the programme. Other qualifications will be considered on an individual basis on application. You are required to upload a copy of your qualification certificates to show how you meet the entry requirements for the programme prior to enrolment. Applications will also require successful completion of the admissions process.

Minimum entry requirements for the apprenticeship:

Level 3 Motor Vehicle Apprenticeship (Light, Heavy, Construction Plant, Land based Engineering) or Level 3 Motor Sport

OR

A minimum of 56 UCAS Tariff points including: GCE A level (A2): Typical grade profile CC (to include 1 from Mathematics, Further Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry, Technology & Design, Design & Technology, Engineering, Electronics or Double Award Science/Applied Science)

OR 

RQF Pearson BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma in Engineering with overall award profile MPP or Diploma in Engineering with overall award profile MM

OR

Access to HE Diploma (NI): 45% overall in an Engineering Access course and 45% in level 2 Access Mathematics.

AND

English and Maths GCSE grade C or equivalent

International Students English Language Requirements

International applicants, from Non-Native English speaking countries, must have evidence of English Language Level B2 on the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages:

• IELTS 6.0 (Academic) (minimum of 5.5 in all skills)
• PTE Academic 51 (minimum of 46 in each part)
• Or equivalent UKVI-approved English Language Test
• Tier 4 Students: SERC will only accept a Secure English Language Test (SELT) for issuing a Certificate of Acceptance for Studies (CAS)

For further information please contact our International Department at international@serc.ac.uk

6 Mandatory units ​

• Engineering Design​
• Engineering Mathematics ​
• Managing a Professional Engineering Project or Professional Engineering Practice​
• Engineering Science​
• Automotive Fundamentals​
• Automotive Workshop Practices ​

2 optional units to be selected from list below​

• Hybrid and Electric Vehicle Technologies ​
• Net zero Energy Technology 1​
• Vehicle Repair and Diagnostics ​
• Automotive Combustion ​
• Vehicle Electrical and Electronics ​

Contact Hours per week

9 hours contact time to include practical classes, lectures, workshops or tutorials.

Personal Study

A further 10 hours per week, on average, studying and preparing assessments in your own time per week, including use of online materials.

Assessment is scheduled throughout the course using a combination of assignments and practical work/observations. Each module is graded individually with an overall single final grade (Pass, Merit, or Distinction) awarded at the end of the course. Students are assessed using a range of methods. These may include:

• Class tests: Work will be completed in exam conditions, typically during your timetabled session.
• Coursework: You will be asked to complete research and/or report on your development activities in a formal report.
• Presentations: Students will present their findings to peers with some external entities involved where appropriate.
• Practical: You may be asked to demonstrate your skills by completing assigned tasks/activities.

This is dependent on the requirements of each unit of study. Oral, written or online feedback will be provided during the course to help improve and monitor performance.

Related programmes

This HLA provides a strong foundation for further progression to:

• Higher education or degree‑level engineering programmes
• Professional engineering status (subject to employer and awarding body requirements)
• Advanced supervisory or management roles within the automotive sector

Employment

On successful completion, apprentices may progress into roles such as:

• Automotive Service Technician
• Diagnostic Technician
• Engineering Maintenance Technician
• Maintenance or Service Engineer
• Technical Specialist or Team Leader

Employers benefit from developing a skilled, motivated workforce with industry‑relevant expertise. Apprentices gain practical experience tailored to the needs of the business, improving productivity, innovation, and long‑term staff retention.