Professional Diploma in Housing Studies

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The Programme

The Professional Diploma in Housing Studies—the first course of its kind in Ireland— has been developed to provide an in-depth and analytical treatment of social and supported housing. Housing studies is a field of immense importance in Ireland and elsewhere. The provision of social and affordable housing and of different types of housing supports and rental assistance are key parts of the modern welfare state. Such provision is complex, however, and affected by economic and social considerations, legislation, and broader policy frameworks.

It is vitally important that those interested in housing studies—whether they work in local authorities, government departments, the voluntary and advocacy sectors, relevant state bodies or elsewhere—have expertise in the prevailing theories, the recurring issues and the contentious problems that define the contemporary housing studies field in Ireland and abroad. This professional qualification, which can be taken from anywhere in the country, will furnish participants with that expertise.

Is This Programme for you?

The programme has a very broad appeal. Participants may have a personal interest in housing studies or may have professional responsibilities that would be well-served by a discrete qualification in this area. Those with a professional interest in housing often work in local government, in the civil service, in state or voluntary bodies or in advocacy organisations especially concerned with the provision and management of housing services. Whether they work in management, administrative or technical positions, this professional diploma will meet their needs by providing a comprehensive introduction to housing studies in Ireland. 

Subjects

This Professional Diploma covers the following topics: 

• Supported Housing in Ireland: Social, Affordable and Homeless Services
• Evolution of Housing Policy
• Housing and the Welfare State
• The Housing Market and Role of the State
• The Regulatory Framework
• Housing Management and Reform Agenda
• Future Directions of Housing Policy 

Assessment

Assessment is based on  continuous assessment and end-of-year exams. 

Other Information

Housing Agency Bursary Scheme

The Housing Agency runs a Bursary Scheme that supports students seeking to enrol in this programme, covering all fees. Applicants for the 2024 Bursary Scheme can find the relevant information, including the Bursary Application form, here: Housing Agency Bursary Scheme 2024.

Seminar Dates

Seminars take place on Thursdays and run from 10am-4pm.

In-person seminar	September 19
Online webinar	October 24
Online webinar	November 21
In-person seminar	December 5
Online webinar	January 16
Online webinar	February 13
In-person seminar	March 6

How To Apply

1. Download this Application Form and complete it (if your fees are being paid by your employer, be sure to include all the relevant details on the form).
2. That form MUST be accompanied by: (a) proof of ID (copy of passport, birth cert, or driving licence), (b) a passport photo, (c) the programme fee (see section on Fees).

Send the completed application form and the above items to undergrad@ipa.ie.

You may also apply by post.

Delivery

This part-time programme is delivered through a blended learning model and can be taken from anywhere in the country. Students attend classroom-based seminars and online webinars. They are supported in their studies by a range of course material.

Prospectus

Programme Delivery and Applications

IPA programmes are part time and generally delivered through a blended learning model.  To apply, see the How to Apply section on the relevant programme and download the application form below.

Undergraduate Application Form 2024

Undergraduate Application Form