Course overview
Start your journey into the world of Building Services Engineering.
The NQ Building Services Engineering (Level 6) course provides an excellent introductory pathway into the design, installation, and management of essential building systems. This one-year, full-time National Qualification gives you a solid foundation in the basic principles of Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning (HVAC), plumbing, electrical services, and wider building services systems.
You will explore how modern buildings function, how engineers design and manage efficient and sustainable environments, and how different building services disciplines work together to create safe, comfortable spaces.
The course introduces you to both the technical theory and the practical skills used across the industry, helping you understand how building services are planned, coordinated, and maintained. By the end of the programme, you’ll have a clear insight into the key roles within Building Services Engineering and the pathways available for progressing to apprenticeships, further study, or industry-related careers.
This course is ideal if you:
- Have an interest in engineering, design, or construction technology.
- Want to understand how mechanical and electrical systems work within buildings.
- Are looking to progress to an HNC in Building Services Engineering or a related apprenticeship.
- Enjoy practical problem-solving and developing new technical skills
What you will learn
You’ll explore the main areas of Building Services Engineering, developing technical knowledge and hands-on skills that prepare you for higher-level study or employment in the sector.
- Building Services Engineering Science – discover the principles that underpin heating, ventilation, and energy systems.
- Construction Technology and Design – learn about materials, methods, and sustainable design processes.
- Heating and Plumbing Technology – understand how water and heat systems are designed, installed, and maintained.
- Ventilation, Refrigeration and Air Conditioning – study airflow, temperature control, and system efficiency.
- Electrical Technology – gain introductory knowledge of circuits, power, and lighting systems used in buildings.
- Computer-Aided Design (CAD) and Engineering Software – use industry software to model and analyse building systems.
- Mathematics for Technicians – apply numerical and analytical skills to solve engineering challenges.
- Health, Safety and Welfare – learn about the regulations and safe practices required in construction and engineering environments.
- Building Services Design Project – bring everything together in a practical design task reflecting real industry work
Entry requirements
You should have one of the following:
✅ Three National 5 qualifications at grade C or above, including Maths or Physics. OR
✅ A relevant NQ Level 5 qualification in a construction-related subject. OR
✅ Suitable construction experience or qualifications that demonstrate technical ability.
ℹ️ For this course, if English is not your first language
- you need to have SQA ESOL Higher (or equivalent, click here to see equivalent qualifications)
- If you do not have a formal ESOL qualification but your language skills meet this level, you should apply for your course and then contact our Admissions team to organise an internal language assessment here at the College.
Career Opportunities
This qualification provides a strong base for entry-level and apprenticeship roles within the building services and construction sectors, such as:
⚙️ Building Services Trainee Technician
🌡 HVAC or Plumbing Assistant
💡 Electrical or Energy Efficiency Assistant
🏗 Construction or Engineering Apprentice
🧾 CAD or Design Assistant
With further study, you can progress to roles such as Building Services Engineer, Design Technician, or Energy Consultant.
Future prospects
After successfully completing this course, you can progress to:
- The HNC Building Services Engineering
- A Modern Apprenticeship in a related trade or technical area.
- Employment within the construction, energy, or facilities management sectors.
This course gives you the perfect foundation for a rewarding career in an ever-growing, future-focused industry.