Develop your knowledge of hydrogen technologies and their role in the transition to a low-carbon energy system.

Globally and locally hydrogen is playing an increasing role in future energy systems, creating a need for people with an understanding of hydrogen production, safety, infrastructure and applications.

This programme is designed for those working in, or seeking to develop their knowledge of, engineering, energy, utilities, manufacturing, construction and renewable technologies.

The course is delivered predominantly online, allowing learners to study flexibly alongside work and other commitments, with one short practical session at Northern Regional College’s Ballymena campus.

Why study this course?

• Gain an accredited Level 5 qualification in hydrogen technologies.
• Study predominantly online around existing work commitments.
• Attend only one short practical session in Ballymena.
• Develop knowledge relevant to energy transition and decarbonisation.
• Learn about hydrogen production, safety, gas infrastructure and system operation.
• Access a fully funded place if you meet the Enhanced Investment Zone eligibility requirements.
• Study alongside learners from engineering, energy, utilities, manufacturing and public-sector organisations.

Who should apply?

The course is particularly suitable for people working within:

• energy
• utilities
• engineering
• manufacturing
• construction
• renewable technologies
• infrastructure
• environmental and sustainability roles.

It is also suitable for learners progressing from the OCN NI Level 3 Award in Hydrogen Applications and Technologies, or those with other relevant Level 3 qualifications or industrial experience who want to develop their knowledge of hydrogen at a higher level.

Industry participation

During the last academic year, 30 learners completed the programme, with participants from employers including Wrightbus, Energia Group, NI Water, Mutual Energy, GES Group, Dowds, Mannok, and Civil Service departments.

The programme has supported employees from across the energy, utilities, engineering, manufacturing, construction and public sectors to develop their understanding of hydrogen production systems and the wider energy transition.

Learner feedback statements

“The online delivery made the course easy to fit around my work commitments, while the practical session in Ballymena helped bring the hydrogen production and safety content to life.”

Employer feedback statements

“We used the programme to develop our team’s understanding of hydrogen technologies and the wider energy transition. The flexible delivery model made it practical for staff to participate alongside their existing roles.”

Flexible online delivery

The programme will run from January to the end of March.

Teaching and learning will take place online, with course materials and assessment activities available through Canvas, the College’s online learning platform. This allows learners to complete much of the programme flexibly around employment and other commitments.

Learners will attend one practical session of approximately three hours at Northern Regional College’s Ballymena campus. This practical session will normally take place around week 8 or 9 of the programme. The confirmed date will be provided within the first two weeks of the course.

Attendance at the practical session is required.

Practical activities must be completed in a controlled environment under supervision, with learners demonstrating an appropriate understanding of health and safety before taking part.

There is no traditional final examination.

Learners will build a portfolio of evidence throughout the programme through assessment activities linked to the course content. Assessment may include written coursework, research activities, practical demonstration, and tutor observations.

What will I learn?

The programme develops knowledge and understanding of hydrogen production systems and technologies, including:

• health and safety requirements associated with hydrogen production
• the characteristics of hydrogen in gaseous environments
• risk assessment and the development of safety controls
• current energy-use trends, carbon emissions and energy security
• the transition towards net zero
• hydrogen production processes
• green hydrogen production through electrolysis
• the impact of hydrogen on gas infrastructure
• hydrogen embrittlement and other material considerations
• hydrogen and natural gas blending
• the setting, measurement and stabilisation of hydrogen gas mixtures
• combustion characteristics, including NOx and condensate
• implications for hydrogen system design.

Successful learners will achieve the OCN NI Level 5 Award in Green Technologies – Hydrogen Production Systems and Technologies Pathway.

The award may support progression towards further Level 5 study within the OCN NI Green Technologies suite, including Certificate and Extended Certificate qualifications.

It can also support continuing professional development for those working within energy, engineering, utilities, sustainability and renewable technology sectors. The Hydrogen Production Systems and Technologies unit forms part of the OCN NI Level 5 Green Technologies qualification suite.

This class is fully funded through the Enhanced Investment Zone

Eligible learners can complete this programme fully funded through the Enhanced Investment Zone – Advance ME Further programme.

The programme is funded by the UK Government and led in Northern Ireland by the Department for the Economy. It is intended to support workforce development, productivity, good jobs and decarbonisation.

• Applicants must meet the eligibility requirements for the Enhanced Investment Zone programme as well as the entry requirements for the course.
• Applicants must be aged 18 or over and have the right to work and undertake training in the UK for the duration of the programme. Evidence of eligibility will be required as part of the application process.
• Applicants should normally have GCSE Mathematics and English at Grade C or above, or equivalent, together with a relevant Level 3 qualification.
• Applicants who do not hold a Level 3 qualification may also be considered where they have relevant industrial experience.
• Recognition of appropriate prior learning or experience may also be considered through the College admissions process.