Engineering

The AAQ Extended Certificate in Engineering is structured around four units that introduce key engineering principles while building practical and analytical skills.

Unit 1: Engineering Principles

Students develop the skills and knowledge needed to solve mechanical, electrical and electronic engineering problems. This unit focuses on applying mathematical methods and physical science principles to engineering contexts.

Unit 2: Engineering Applications

This unit explores how advances in modern technology are changing the way engineering sectors operate. Students examine materials, processes and emerging technologies and learn how engineers develop sustainable solutions to real-world engineering challenges.

Unit 3: Engineering Product Design and Manufacture

Students create a design solution in response to an engineering brief. This includes developing two-dimensional (2D) drawings and three-dimensional (3D) models, using computer-aided design (CAD) systems and other modelling techniques.

Unit 4: Engineering Project

In this unit, students apply project management principles to complete an individual engineering project. They will develop a conceptual or practical solution to a chosen problem within a specialist engineering area.

Through the AAQ Level 3 Engineering course, you will build a strong foundation of technical, analytical and transferable skills that reflect real engineering practice.

You will develop:

• An understanding of units of measurement, engineering data and information used in technical contexts

• The ability to apply mathematical procedures across mechanical, electrical and electronic engineering scenarios
• Knowledge of the engineering industry, including functional areas, materials and emerging technologies
• Engineering design skills, including design development, technical communication and responding to briefs
• Experience interpreting technical specifications and producing accurate engineering documentation
• An understanding of engineering project management processes and techniques

Alongside technical skills, you will strengthen transferable skills such as problem solving, creativity, innovation, communication and personal responsibility for managing your own learning. 

The ability to apply mathematical and scientific principles to real engineering problems is a key attribute for progression into higher education and STEM-related pathways.

Assessment on the AAQ Extended Certificate in Engineering is split evenly between examinations and coursework, allowing students to demonstrate both theoretical understanding and practical application.

• 50% external examinations covering Unit 1 and Unit 2
• 50% coursework based on Unit 3 and Unit 4

The Engineering AAQ Extended Certificate is ideal for students looking to progress into further study or employment within the engineering sector.

Successful completion of this AAQ Level 3 Engineering qualification can lead to:

• Progression to higher education in engineering, particularly when combined with A-Level Mathematics
• Entry into degree apprenticeships within engineering and related industries
• Career pathways across a range of engineering disciplines

Potential career routes include mechanical engineering, aerospace engineering, electrical engineering, systems engineering, operations engineering, engineering project management, computer science and design-related roles.

The AAQ Extended Certificate in Engineering works best alongside subjects that support mathematical reasoning, scientific understanding and problem solving.

Students studying AAQ Level 3 Engineering often choose to combine this course with:

• A-Level Mathematics
• A-Level Physics
• A-Level Computer Science

These subjects complement the technical and analytical demands of the course and can strengthen progression routes into higher education, apprenticeships, or engineering-related careers.

You will need five grade 5s at GCSE including at least a 6 in Maths and a 55 in Sciences.