Why You Should Study HND in Engineering?

In the ever-changing world of technology and innovation, the demand for engineering prowess has never been greater. From healthcare, genomics, e-commerce, electric vehicles, to AI and cloud computing, this dynamic field has grown exponentially over the last two decades and is expected to continue to grow into the future. This also means that there is soaring demand for engineers across all sectors, particularly in ‘green’ engineering roles, which have increased by more than half in the last five years.

With the world relying more and more on innovative engineering solutions, this field offers limitless opportunities to anyone interested in solving complex problems, contributing to technological advancements, and ultimately shaping the future. As engineers are the driving force behind the latest technological breakthroughs, an HND in Engineering equips you with practical skills and technical knowledge to launch your career in this dynamic industry. Whether you’re interested in civil, mechanical, electrical, or any other engineering discipline, an HND qualification can open doors to various exciting opportunities that await you in the future. 

Why Study Engineering?

There are many good reasons why you should consider pursuing a career in engineering. Some of these include:

• Studying engineering can lead to a wide range of career opportunities, with specialising in a specific area opening up more doors and higher pay. Whether it’s in renewable energy, robotics, automotive, aerospace, or software development, there are many sectors where your engineering skills can be put to good use. For example, you could work as an electrical engineer, designing and maintaining electrical systems and equipment, or as a mechanical engineer, designing and building machines and mechanical systems. 
• Engineers are in high demand across the world, and the need for skilled engineers is only projected to increase in the coming years. And as technology advances, there is always a demand for engineers, particularly in the growing ‘green’ sector in the UK. 
• Engineering is a very rewarding career, both intellectually and financially. As an engineer, you will have the opportunity to work on projects that will have a real impact on people’s lives and the world at large, such as designing sustainable buildings, developing renewable energy technologies and solutions, and developing life-saving medical equipment, making it an exciting field worth pursuing. Engineering professionals also earn among the highest salaries in the world, with an average salary of £64,000 in the UK. 
• Studying engineering isn’t just about preparing for a career, though. It is also about developing a way of thinking that can be useful, not just in your professional life but in your personal life as well. Engineers are trained to be critical thinkers, to question everything, and to always seek better solutions to old and new problems. Besides, these skills are not only applicable to engineering; they can also be applied to other job roles, from business and data analysts to project managers and consultants, making you a highly employable graduate. With an engineering degree, the world really is your oyster.
• Last but not least, engineering is a highly regarded profession because it is critical to the functioning of our society and plays an important role in shaping the world we live in and its future. By choosing to study engineering, you’re choosing to become part of this influential community.

Reasons to Study Engineering in the UK

So, why study engineering in the UK in particular? First and foremost, the UK has a long history of innovation in engineering and continues to be at the forefront of technological advancements. It also produces some of the world’s most renowned engineers, including Isambard Kingdom Brunel, Henry Royce, and Sir Tim Berners Lee, to name a few. 

As a result, the UK is home to some of the world’s top engineering institutions and consistently ranks among the best in the world, providing you with access to high-quality education, state-of-the-art facilities, and a diverse range of engineering courses that cater to all interests within the field. You will also be learning from experts in their fields who can share their knowledge and experience to help you advance your skills for an engineering career, including creativity, innovation, and critical thinking. 

Secondly, the UK has a thriving engineering industry, with the number of engineering jobs expected to grow in all UK regions between now and 2030, particularly in London and the South East. By studying engineering in the UK, you are not only gaining a degree, but also entering a vibrant and dynamic engineering community that can jumpstart your career while providing numerous job opportunities once you graduate.  

Finally, studying engineering in the UK provides excellent value for money. While the courses are more intensive and focused, you’ll be able to obtain your qualification in less time than in many other countries. This means you can begin your career and start earning money sooner. Besides, UK engineering degrees are internationally recognised and highly valued by employers, increasing your employability both at home and abroad. 

Studying engineering, for example, an HND in Engineering, equips you with the foundational knowledge and skills that can open up a world of career and study opportunities. It is also a stepping stone to a dynamic and rewarding career in a field that also shapes the future of technology. 

What is HND in Engineering?

An HND (Higher National Diploma) in Engineering is a practical, skills-focused course designed to give you a solid foundation in the principles of engineering and enable you to develop specific skills relevant to the career or industry of your choice. It is ideal for anyone who wants to take their first steps into higher education with a hands-on approach before going on to employment or pursuing a full undergraduate degree. As such, throughout the course, you’ll be exposed to a broad range of topics, including mathematics for engineering, engineering science, mechanical principles, and many more. This blend of foundational and specialised course modules equips you with a versatile skill set that can open doors to a wide range of career opportunities in engineering. 

A full-time HND in Engineering usually takes two years to complete, or three to four years part-time, where flexible options with weekday, evening, and weekend classes are available. Generally, an HND is the equivalent of the second year at university, which gives students the flexibility to move onto a one-year, top-up at university to gain a full undergraduate degree. You can also click here to find out more.