Engineering Mix

A Level Mix options are equivalent to one A Level. You can take two A Level subjects and one ‘Mix’ subject.

The core entry requirement for A Level and ‘Engineering Mix’ study at York College is a minimum of four GCSEs at grade 5 with GCSE English Language at grade 4 and Maths at grade 5 on the Higher Paper. This does not include GCSE equivalents (e.g. BTEC courses). Short course GCSE is counted as half of a full GCSE.

You will study the following units throughout the course:-

Principles of Engineering: exam
In this unit you will learn about engineering mathematical techniques, engineering science, mechnical systems, electrical/electronic principles; all widely used in the engineering industry. 

Topics include:

• Engineering mathematics
• Mechanical principles
• Electrical/electronic principles 

Materials Science and Technology: exam
In this unit you will learn about different material properties, the types of material and their relative properties, and how these properties can be affected by different processing techniques.

Topics include:  

• Material properties
• Classifications of materials
• Effects of processing techniques on material properties
• Material failure mechanisms and prevention
• Sustainable materials
• Practices in engineering

Engineering in Practice: Coursework/Assignment
In this unit you will solve an engineering problem, by analysing products, producing engineering CAD drawings and manufacturing an engineering component and an electronic circuit prototype.

Topics include: 

• Product analysis
• Computer Aided Design (CAD)
• Mechanical and electronic engineering drawings
• Planning the safe manufacture of a mechanical prototype and an electronic circuit prototype
• A range of manufacturing processes
• Evaluation techniques 
   

Programmable Electronics: Assignment 
In this unit you will use input and output devices and produce representations of them in different types of programmable electronic devices.

Topics include:

• Microcontrollers and microcontroller systems
• Use of input and output devices and other electronic components in microcontroller systems
• Designing, developing, and assembling microcontroller-based programmable systems
• Programming microcontrollers
   

Electrical Devices and Circuits: Assignment 
In this unit you will use circuit theory and fundamental electronics to design, build and test electronic circuits.

Topics include: 

• Power sources
• Semiconductor devices
• Analogue circuits
• Digital circuits

There is a balance of theory classes and assignment based classes throughout each week. The intention is that during Year One there will be a focus on the Engineering Maths & Science content for the exam, with some engineering materials content. In Year One you will complete practice projects and assignment work for the Electrical Device and Circuits unit. In Year Two engineering materials will continue, with a focus on completing the coursework and the Programmable Electronics Assignment. So there is a mix of theory and practical work throughout.

Assessment methods

• Principles of Engineering: External Exam
• Materials Science and Technology: External Exam
• Engineering in Practice: External set coursework/assignment
• Programmable Electronics: Externally set assignment
• Electrical Devices and Circuits: Externally set assignment

Recommended to be combined with A Level Mathematics and/or Physics, or Computing, which allows you to progress to higher education to study engineering or other STEM-related programmes.

This AAQ can be taken alongside A Level Product Design or A Level Engineering, however we would highly recommend looking at vocational design and engineering options if you are considering this.

Progression from this qualification could lead to higher education, HND/Foundation/BEng (Hons) degrees in a range of Engineering disciplines and other related degrees, or onto an advanced/higher/degree engineering apprenticeship, or work in the engineering sector.

Note: You should always check the entry requirements for degree programmes in engineering as many universities will require A Level Maths and/or Physics.