Non-Destructive Testing (FdSc)

Location: Distance learning

Attendance: This is a distance learning course allowing the student to study from home, work or wherever is most suitable. There are also weekend schools each year. You will also need minimal access to the internet.

Course run by: School of Science and Technology

Course Summary

The aim of the course is to allow people already working in the Non-Destructive Testing (NDT) industries to study for an academic qualification which complements their current job, updates their knowledge and skills and improves their career prospects.

Course Aims

The course teaches subjects which are relevant to Non-Destructive Testing. Students learn the skills required to understand the fundamentals of Non- Destructive Testing such as materials, mathematics and electronics, as well as the main techniques that are currently employed such as visual inspection, eddy current, ultrasonic and radiographic testing. In addition students learn about quality techniques.

Special Course Features

• Distance learning
• Modular
• The course is closely linked to PCN certification through the British Institute of Non-Destructive Testing (BINDT)

Course Content

Study is flexible because the course is both modular and taught by distance learning. You can study full-time or part-time and choose which modules to study at each stage. A module could also be taken as a ‘one-off’, either as a taster before deciding whether or not to do other modules, or in order to update skills in that particular area. All modules are compulsory and there are six modules at each stage.

Stage One

• The first stage introduces the fundamentals of Non- Destructive Testing, including material properties, mathematics and electronics. In addition some general skills are taught such as report writing and career development. By the end of stage one students should understand the basic theory of NDT.

Stage Two

• Stage two looks at applications of NDT. The four main techniques are taught, including surface techniques such as dye penetration and magnetic particles as well as eddy current, ultrasonic and radiographic techniques. In addition, students are taught quality techniques, which describe the role of quality assurance within NDT, and the quality tools that are used within the design, manufacture and use of products and services.

Typical Modules Include

• Eddy current testing
• Electronic principles
• Material properties
• Mathematics
• Quality tools and techniques
• Radiographic testing
• Technical project
• Ultrasonic testing
• Visual and surface testing

Career Opportunities

The course is designed for people who are already working in the NDT industries who want to gain qualifications in order to progress their careers. Successful completion of the Foundation degree enables entry onto the BSc (Hons) Non-Destructive Testing degree where students can top-up to a full honours degree by completing the equivalent of one-year full-time study by distance learning, or more usually on a part-time basis.

Assessment

Modules are assessed by coursework.

Entry Requirements

We look for demonstrable work experience which is relevant to the course, such as PCN certification or equivalent. Depending on the level of certification, some modules will be exempt from study.  Any student not currently employed in an appropriate industry would need to demonstrate they can gain an industrial placement.

Fees & Bursaries

For up-to-date fees and bursary information for this course please visit www.northampton.ac.uk/fees

Further Information

For more information about this course, call 0800 358 2232 or email study@northampton.ac.uk

Applications should be submitted directly to The University of Northampton.