Wastes Management (distance learning) HNC
We are widely recognised as the Centre of Excellence for Wastes Management education in the UK and this course has been developed in collaboration with the Chartered Institution of Wastes Management (CIWM) and is the most widely recognised qualification in the wastes industry.
All courses are accredited by the Chartered Institution of Wastes Management.
The University of Northampton are also proud to work in partnership with RECOUP.
RECOUP works in collaboration with all stakeholders to promote, develop, stimulate and increase the levels of plastics recycling within the UK.
Avenue Campus



Just two miles away from Park Campus and linked by a regular weekday discounted bus service, Avenue Campus has an excellent reputation as an ‘Arts Centre for all’. It boasts theatre performances, exhibitions and its own art gallery, which exhibits work from established artists, students, graduates and University staff.
The campus is equipped with workshops, innovative laboratories and computer-aided design suites. Facilities available include Bassett Lowke Halls of Residence with various room options available to suit all budgets, the Students’ Union, student bar, restaurant and nightclub.
The University of Northampton
Avenue Campus
St George’s Avenue
Northampton
NN2 6JD
The University partners with leading businesses across the industry

Course content
This course provides a broad based introduction to the management of wastes and an excellent opportunity to obtain an internationally recognised qualification in wastes management whilst working, studying at a pace which suits your circumstances.
This course is particularly useful if you want to develop and progress in your career in the wastes management industry or if you want to gain a higher qualification and adapt to changes in the workplace.
Course aims
When you complete the HNC Wastes Management you will have developed:
- an understanding and appreciation of the legal, ethical and social aspects of wastes management resources and operations
- the skills required to handle, treat and dispose of waste and monitor both aquatic and atmospheric pollutants
- the skills necessary for the effective management of financial and human resources
Professional Membership
As a CIWM Accredited Course, while you are studying this course you will be entitled to 12 months free student membership of CIWM.
Benefits of membership include:
- free copy of CIWM Journal delivered on your doorstep each month
- free weekly email news service, News Online, delivered to your inbox
- discounted rates on annual conference, training courses and seminars
- networking opportunities through CIWM Regional Centres
- access to CIWM NGG (New Generation Group) events
- free technical advice and use of CIWM Library Services
- professional and career development
Course modules (17/18)
stage1
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Managing Legal Issues in the Cleaning and Wastes Industries (20 credits)
- Module code: LAW1012DL
- Core module N
Provides the necessary knowledge and understanding to contribute to the management of legal issues in the wastes industry. The legal context within which the wastes industry operates as well as the implications of legislation relating to business obligations and the employee.
-
Managing Skills for the Resource Industry (20 credits)
- Module code: ENV1109DL
- Core module Y
-
Concepts of Environmental Science (20 credits)
- Module code: ENV1112DL
- Core module Y
-
Principles of Wastes Management (20 credits)
- Module code: ENV1111DL
- Core module Y
stage2
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Principles of Circular Economy
- Module code: ENV2127DL
- Core module Y
-
Environmental Law (20 credits)
- Module code: LAW2006DL
- Core module Y
Underpins a wide variety of environmental disciplines by raising your awareness and knowledge of the way in which environmental policy is implemented and enforced through legal measures.
-
Land Contamination and Disposal (20 credits)
- Module code: ENV2129DL
- Core module Y
-
Resource Recovery Techniques (20 credits)
- Module code: ENV2130DL
- Core module Y
Module information is quoted for 17/18 entry. Please note that modules run subject to student numbers and staff availability, any changes will be communicated to applicants accordingly.
Methods of Learning
Each module addresses a set of specific themes, which you are then assessed on. This course is delivered through our virtual learning environment NILE. This is where your tutors will provide course materials and further resources, where activities will be housed and where you will be able to meet and work with other students in forums. You can expect one to one support from your tutor via NILE, email, phone, Skype or face to face if necessary.
Schedule
Each module is worth 20 credits and involves 200 learning hours, including teaching, learning and assessment. We normally send the modules out in January, April and September.
Assessments
Our teaching staff have used their expertise to create interesting and varied assessments, designed to not only test knowledge and skills but also consolidate and provide a platform for the acquisition of new skills. Assessments can take the form of essays, reports, short answer questions and time constrained assignments. You can expect between three and five items of assessment per module.
Careers
Career Opportunities
On completing this course you should have acquired the skills and understanding to become a competent wastes manager who is able to meet the present needs and challenges of work in various wastes management organisations, agencies and industries.
You will be provided with an authoritative understanding of environmental law, the complex nature of waste and pollution generation, treatment, disposal (removal) and monitoring. You will be able to advise and implement appropriate management policies, strategies and procedures.
As well as providing opportunities for career development for those already working in the field, the qualification can be used as a route to study for degrees in both wastes management and environmental management.
How to apply
For application information please see our how to apply page.
You can apply directly to the University for this course and will need to submit the following documents with your application:
- a personal statement
- scans of your qualifications and transcripts
- scans of Photo ID, either a Passport or Driving licence
- change of name document, if your qualifications or photo ID is in a different name to the one your applying in
Applications can be made throughout the year, with a September, January and April start available.
For further application information, please see our how to apply page.
Entry requirements
Due to the vocational nature of the study programme, entry requirements are flexible, but typically will include five GCSEs/O levels and one A-Level or equivalent and satisfactory evidence of suitability gained through prior work based or experiential learning. You will need to demonstrate that you meet the minimum English language requirement of IELTS 6.0 or equivalent.
Fees and funding
Fees quoted relate to study in the Academic Year 18/19 only and may be subject to inflationary increases in future years.
Distance Learning: | £5,600 (full fee payable in year one of the course) |
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If you opt to pay your tuition fees with a part time tuition fee loan, you should apply for 50% (£2,740) in 17/18 and will be required to apply for the remaining 50% in 18/19
Scholarships
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TD Lewis Scholarship
The T D Lewis Scholarship provides both undergraduate and postgraduate students with financial awards of up to £1,500. This scholarship is awarded on educational excellence… -
The Chancellor’s Fund
The Chancellor’s Fund is a bi-annual fund providing students with awards of between £100 and £1,000. You must be a current student to apply. The… -
The Reid Science and Engineering Bursary
The Reid Science and Engineering Bursary supports a small number of undergraduate students who are studying a full-time three year BSc or BEng in Environmental… -
Wilson Endowment Scholarship
The Wilson Endowment Scholarship provides a £1,500 scholarship to undergraduate students from the Northamptonshire area. The endowed scholarship was donated in memory of Mr Lynn Wilson,…