About the course
The College offers an opportunity to study at level 3 (A level equivalent) for students who wish to develop a comprehensive understanding of Land-based Mechanisation - encompassing practical techniques, academic knowledge and technical skills. It is a popular option for both school leavers and successful Level 2 Diploma students. The course incorporates a mix of practicals, classroom lectures, industry visits and case study exercises, including assessment in practicals and written assignments.
This unique course offers the opportunity to learn how to repair, maintain and modify land-based machinery and how to manage them. In addition, elements of a wide range of agricultural areas of manufacture and machinery management will be covered. Additional qualifications are available to all students. These include certification in welding, tractor driving and quad bikes.
Key Information
Location: Preston Campus
Course length: Two Years (35 weeks)
Start date: September 2026
Course Modules
Land-based Engineering Operations - Service and Repair Engines and Components
During this unit you will gain an understanding of the principles, maintenance and overhaul of modern internal combustion engines.
Service and Repair Hydraulic Systems and Components on Land-based Equipment
Learners will develop the practical skills needed to maintain, test and repair hydraulic systems used on land-based vehicles and equipment. They will then focus on the understanding the construction and operation of hydraulic systems used on land-based vehicles and equipment.
Understanding and Servicing Land-based Harvesting Machinery (Cutting and Lifting)
To have an understanding of the working principles of field equipment used in harvesting a selection of crops. This includes use of the equipment in the field.
Understanding and Servicing Land-based Harvesting Machinery (Processing)
To have an understanding of the working principles of field equipment used in harvesting and processing a selection of crops. This includes use of the equipment in the field.
Understanding and Working with Land-based Vehicle Engine Technology
During this unit you will gain an understanding of the principles, maintenance and overhaul of modern internal combustion engines.
Understanding Health, Safety and Welfare in the Land-based Engineering Workplace
This unit focuses on transmission, steering, suspension and braking systems.
Understanding Land-based Vehicle Chassis Systems
This module focuses on transmission, steering, suspension and braking systems.
Entry requirements & additional information
An English Language GCSE at C (4) or higher plus a minimum of three others at C (4) or higher, including Maths or Science.
Students will also receive training and assessment in a large range of additional qualifications, which will enhance their employability such as welding, tractor driving, manual handling and quad bikes (subject to change).
The course incorporates a mix of practicals, classroom lectures, industry visits and case study exercises, including assessment in practicals and written assignments.
As a course equivalent to A Level, the Level 3 Diploma is an ideal spring board for progression to a Foundation Degree or Honours Degree depending on UCAS points gained.
Progression onto degree programmes at other universities is dependent upon their own individual entry criteria. This might include specific requirements relating to the type of course being studied, the particular modules or units studied on a course, the work-experience that you�ve undertaken or even previous GCSE attainment. Entry requirements can also change from year-to-year.
It is essential that, if you have a clear career goal in mind, you check and confirm the entry requirements of your preferred degree programme prior to commencing your Level 3 studies here at Myerscough. Information, Advice and Guidance will be provided by the College to support you in making the right choices, but please ensure that you have taken time to consider your future career goals and the specific entry requirements at other universities. The UCAS website is a good starting point: https://www.ucas.com/
Costs that are mandatory for the course:
Pens, pencils, note book etc approx £20
Clean Myerscough fire retardant overalls and suitable protective footwear (available to purchase from Myerscough College at the beginning of the course) £85
Costs that are optional for the course:
Trips and visits approx £80
Although not essential for the course, students may wish to buy recommended books £20 - £50
Opportunity to join Car Club £20 per annum
Lockers £25 for the year with a refund of £10 on return of the locker key