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Construction

Railway Engineering

Campus Granton Campus

Qualification SCQF Level 5

Study mode Full time

Start date Aug 2025

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Course overview

This course is an introduction to the railway industry and prepares you for a career in railway engineering. The course lasts 18 weeks, with the first two weeks based at Edinburgh College’s Granton campus.

You will work on our simulated track for 12 weeks and undertake practical training, including Personal Track Safety (PTS) and a Track Induction Course (TIC). You will need to complete theory tests for your PTS and learn about the health and safety involved when working in the railway sector.  

The railways are a key part of the UK’s transport infrastructure for commuting, leisure and business travel as well as freight services. The rail industry has been experiencing strong growth in passenger journeys, putting pressure on the available resources. The industry recognises that it needs staff with the right skills to deal with the ever-increasing demands. The successful completion of this will allow you to work on the rail infrastructure. Railway Engineering.

What you will learn

  • Practical elements of Railways Engineering
  • Critical Training in Personal Track Safety (PTS)
  • Track Induction Course (TIC)
  • Health and Safety

How the course is assessed

  • Assessment is through continual assessment both in practice and theory 

Number of days per week

  • 5 days per week, blended learning over 18 weeks

Entry requirements

  • We recommend that you are at least 17-years-old when starting this course; you must be 18 years old upon completion to enter employment.
  • You should be fit and healthy and will undergo a fitness and drugs and alcohol test before being given a place on the course. 
  • No formal qualifications are required, but some construction or plant experience would be beneficial 

Information on Tests / Auditions / Interview Requirements

  • You will be asked to attend an interview for a skills assessment

English Proficiency Requirements

ILETS  5.5

Progression and Articulation Routes

  • On successful completion of the course, you can progress to employment through a rail employment agent or seek work directly with an employer 

Career options

  • Growth and development of the East West Rail Link and the Borders Railway mean that employment is set to remain steady in this area 
  • Opportunities for employment exist in several rail projects currently active in the UK 

Study Options

Campus Study mode Start date
Granton Campus Full time 25/08/25

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