HNC Water Operations
- Location
- Cardonald Campus
- SCQF Level
- 7
- Start Date
- 25 Aug 2026
- Qualification Type
- HNC
- Course Type
- Part-Time
- Duration
- 2 Years (Block Release)
HNC Water Operations is aimed at those who are already working in the water industry who are looking for career progression or to progress to further study at degree level. The course covers areas including water resources, water treatment processes, wastewater treatment process and supervision and management
The course is available to study over two years on a block release basis, with attendance at college every six week for three days.
What will I learn?
During HNC Water Operations you'll learn:
Year 1
- Water resources provides an understanding of the hydrological cycle, what affects our water sources and what these sources are. This enhances understanding of how water should be treated and how to manage these resources.
- Water treatment processes covers the chemicals and treatment processes used to treat raw water and how these processes are managed.
- Supervision and management explores management styles in the water industry.
- Materials and components provides an appreciation of the engineering materials used in the industry, and why, to understand construction and performance of water networks.
Year 2
- Water distribution network which will explain how a network is designed, constructed, operated and maintained.
- Wastewater treatment processes provides an appreciation of how the industry treats wastewater effectively prior to discharging back into the environment.
- Water quality management explores the parameters that our water and wastewater must be treated to and the legislation behind this.
- Water industry structure provides an understanding of the water industry as a whole, how and why it is structured in line with World Health Organisation requirements and the resulting legislation.
Entry requirements (minimum)
You should be currently employed in the water industry and have a minimum of 18 months of experience in any water industry related discipline.
Employer and industry links
In year 1 you'll undertake a field trip to a water catchment area to gain an understanding of weather, topography, land use and flow measurement.
We also work with Scottish Water to facilitate a site vist to a water treatment works.
In year 2 you'll hear from the Drinking Water Quality Regulator (DWQR) for Scotland (Drinking Water Inspectorate DWI in the rest of the UK) present to students about their role within the industry.
You'll also benefit from a site visit to a Scottish Water wastewater treatment works.
Jobs and further study
You may progress to the BSc (Hons) Combined STEM degree with the Open University, which has been developed in conjunction with Scottish Water.
Successful students have also used this qualification to progres to degrees in areas such as Environmental Management, Civil Engineering and Water Treatment Technology.
This course also enhances career propects, with many former students going on to promoted posts within the water industry.
Some examples of student feedback include:
“Very well organised with a lot of support material provided. The structure and resources available for the HNC Water Operations course have been compiled to ensure that every student has the tools they need to succeed.”
“All the assessments were very relevant and were a great way to learn more about your work environment. The course’s practical approach allows for a deeper understanding of our daily tasks at Scottish Water.”
“Useful HNC for any role at Scottish Water. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to enhance your current position, this course is designed to improve your capabilities within the organisation.”
“Very hard work but very rewarding and the best way to learn your organisation from within. The course challenges you to push beyond your limits, leading to a more comprehensive grasp of our internal operations.”
“Excellent thoroughly enjoyed this as it was very relevant to my work. The course’s relevance to our day-to-day roles makes it not only informative but also deeply satisfying.”
“All subjects within the HNC Water Operations & Management were delivered to a very high standard. Each unit was informative and explained well, reflecting the high educational standards of the course.”
“This qualification will hopefully support entering further education through Scottish Water’s STEM degree. It’s a stepping stone towards higher education and career progression within the industry.”
“This course and qualification will help massively as I work through my apprenticeship. It provides a solid foundation of knowledge that is crucial during the apprenticeship journey.”
Making an application
For courses starting in August, you can make up to two applications.
Applications are made to a course and a first choice of campus. If the course is oversubscribed at your first choice you will be automatically considered for alternative sites and may be made an offer without a further application.