The Hydrogen Applications and Technologies course provides an introduction to hydrogen technologies and their developing role within the energy transition.

This cohort is delivered fully online by Northern Regional College; the course is designed to provide flexibility for people already in employment. Learners are given access to the online learning materials and have a three-week window to work through the course and complete the required assignments.

The qualification is suitable for people working in, or wishing to develop their knowledge of, sectors including energy, engineering, transport, construction, plumbing, housing, sustainability and the wider green economy. No previous experience of hydrogen technology is required.

Learners will develop knowledge in areas including:

• hydrogen safety, including risks, storage, handling, and leak detection;
• hydrogen production, including electrolysis and different hydrogen production pathways;
• hydrogen storage and distribution;
• the properties and applications of hydrogen;
• the role of hydrogen within energy systems; and
• either operating principles/gas networks or fuel cells for transport.

Flexible/self-directed online study.  Online 45-minute course induction session on day 1 of the course Thursday. With additional 1-1 support sessions available on request with the course tutor.

The programme is assessed through assignments tasks completed and submitted online. Successful learners achieve the regulated OCN NI Level 3 Award in Hydrogen Applications and Technologies.

More than 250 learners have completed the programme to date, ranging from sole traders to employees of major organisations across Northern Ireland's energy, transport, housing, government and education sectors.

The OCN NI Level 3 Award in Hydrogen Applications and Technologies will allow learners to progress to other higher-level qualifications in hydrogen technology related areas and/or into employment in the motor vehicle sector, plumbing sector and/or green energy sector.

At Northern Regional College we offer the Level 5 Hydrogen Production Systems and Technologies award as the natural progression route.

Applicants should:

• be aged 17 or over;
• have sufficient literacy and numeracy skills to successfully complete a Level 3 qualification – GCSE English or Level 2 Essential Skills Communication (or equivalent); and
• have access to a computer or suitable device and internet connection to participate in online learning.