ADDITIVE MANUFACTURING DEGREE LANCASHIRE & CUMBRIA

Additive Manufacturing, often called 3D printing, is changing the way products are designed and built. Instead of cutting material away like traditional methods, it builds parts layer by layer from a digital model. This makes it possible to create complex shapes, reduce waste and bring ideas to life much faster.

In Lancashire and Cumbria, studying Additive Manufacturing means learning the latest skills in a region that’s home to advanced engineering and cutting-edge manufacturing processes.

What is Additive Manufacturing?

Additive Manufacturing (AM) is a process where a 3D object is created directly from a digital design using materials like plastics, metals or composites.

Layer-by-layer construction: Each part is built by stacking thin layers of material, fused together by heat, light or bonding agents.
Digital precision: CAD software converts designs into detailed instructions for the printer.
Complex geometries: Intricate, lightweight structures can be produced that would be otherwise impossible with traditional manufacturing.
Less waste: Material is only used where it’s needed, reducing costs and environmental impact.
Speed and flexibility: From prototypes to end-use parts, AM shortens production times and supports rapid innovation

Real-World Applications

Studying Additive Manufacturing opens doors to multiple industries:

Healthcare: Custom implants, surgical tools and prosthetics designed to fit individual patients.
Aerospace and Automotive: Lightweight components for improved fuel efficiency and performance.
Construction: Large-scale 3D printing of buildings and infrastructure.
Consumer Goods: Bespoke products like eyewear, footwear, fashion and toys.
Tooling and Prototyping: On-demand production of fixtures and replacement parts.

These skills are in demand across sectors where speed, precision and sustainability matter.

Why Study Additive Manufacturing in Lancashire & Cumbria?

The Lancashire & Cumbria Institute of Technology (L&C IoT) is shaping the future of higher technical education across engineering, digital and manufacturing sectors. Our vision is simple but ambitious: to give learners the skills employers need while supporting the region’s transition to a low-carbon economy and advanced manufacturing future.

By studying with us, you’ll benefit from:

For Learners

Industry-standard facilities: Learn in environments that reflect the modern workplace, with access to the latest equipment and technology.
Career-focused curriculum: Courses are designed in collaboration with employers to meet current and future skills needs, from nuclear manufacturing to digital engineering.
Pathways for every learner: Whether you’re leaving school, returning to education or looking to upskill in your current field, our flexible approach breaks down barriers and makes your career aspirations possible.
Skills beyond the classroom: We focus on building professional behaviours, soft skills and workplace readiness so you’re prepared for the realities of the modern workplace – all of which make you a better employee and more attractive to employers.

For Employers

Closing the skills gap: Our training meets the demands of rapidly changing industries such as healthcare, nuclear manufacturing, aerospace, construction and more.
Local talent, ready to work: By training and retaining local people, we reduce recruitment challenges and strengthen the region’s workforce.
Upskilling opportunities: Existing employees can retrain or gain higher-level skills to keep pace with technological change.

Studying at the L&C IoT connects learners with cutting-edge facilities, expert teaching and career pathways in industries where demand for skills is growing fast.