7 Myths About Construction and Engineering Courses

In this blog Hannah Stansfield, a Senior Lecturer at UCEN Manchester, has addressed the 7 common myths and misconceptions relating to the courses delivered at our School of Construction and Engineering.

With industry growth expected to demand 251,500 extra construction workers by 2028, now is the perfect time to enter the growing construction and engineering industry.

Hannah covers everything from the contents of the programmes on offer to the apprehensions some students have about returning to education following a long break.

Myth 1: All engineering and construction students are male

This is a question we get asked a lot.

The short answer is no, we’ve got a great mix of students on our courses – currently 30% of our Construction and Engineering students are female.

It’s also worth noting that the average age of our students across all our Construction and Engineering courses is 36.

Myth 2: All classes practical based in an engineering or construction course

No, certainly not. Our Construction and Engineering courses involve a lot of theory based modules, including Building Information Modelling, Construction Technology, and Law and Contract. Our students are expected to use industry-standard software to create designs, but the majority of our programmes are theory based and taught in classrooms as opposed to workshops.

Myth 3: Being a mature student will hold me back

It may be reassuring to learn that our Construction and Engineering courses do not involve any exams and all our students are assessed by coursework.

Some of our students haven’t studied for more than 10 years when they enrol with us, so it’s the first time in a long time that they’ve engaged in education. We pride ourselves on ensuring each of our mature students receives the personalised support that they need to achieve.

For example, we have small class sizes, which means we can spend more one to one time with our students. We will always do whatever we can to help our students progress in their chosen careers. We have dedicated career advisors who can help you through every step of the way.

Myth 4: You can't get a degree after a HTQ

Absolutely you can! Studying a Level 4 higher technical qualification can pave the way for studying at Level 5 and Level 6. It’s essentially the first year of a three-year degree course and the perfect way for students with aspirations of attaining a degree in Construction and Engineering to begin their journeys.

As of January 2024, UCEN Manchester offers the following Construction and Engineering pathways:

• HNC Construction Management for England
• HNC Modern Methods of Construction for England
• HNC Civil Engineering

Myth 5: Construction work is only manual labour

While physical labour is a part of some construction jobs, the industry encompasses a wide range of roles. These include project management, design, engineering, technology, and more. Modern construction involves sophisticated technology and complex problem-solving.

Myth 6: You don't need qualifications to work in construction.

While some entry-level positions may not require extensive formal education, many roles, especially in engineering and management, require degrees, certifications, and specialised training. Even in trades, apprenticeships and vocational training are crucial.

Myth 7: Construction and engineering jobs are unstable

While the construction industry can experience fluctuations, there is a consistent demand for skilled professionals. Infrastructure development, population growth, and the need for sustainable buildings ensure a steady need for construction and engineering expertise. Also, the need to maintain and repair existing infrastructure provides a constant source of work.

Why you should study a construction and engineering course at UCEN Manchester

The demand for skilled professionals in the construction and engineering sector is huge. When you study an engineering or construction course, you're not just learning; you're stepping into a sector that's shaping our world, from sustainable builds to vital infrastructure.

UCEN Manchester gets that everyone's journey is different. So, if you've ever thought 'that's not for me,' think again. UCEN Manchester is proving that construction and engineering are for everyone, offering the skills and support to make it happen.

UCEN Manchester excels in construction and engineering education through diverse HNC courses, cutting-edge facilities, strong industry ties for work experience, expert tutors, and dedicated career support, ensuring graduates are well-prepared for successful careers.

Find out more information about Construction and Engineering courses at UCEN Manchester and enrol today.