Local Government

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.

Professional Diploma in Housing Studies

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Key Facts

Delivery Method

The programme is delivered through a blended learning model. Students attend a combination of in-person seminars at the IPA and online webinars. Students are supported in their studies by bespoke course material and online resources. Seminars are delivered by  a team of both IPA and  external housing specialists.

Entry Requirements

Applicants should possess the Certificate in Housing Studies (accredited by IPA/UCD/NUI) or equivalent qualification. 

Duration

One academic year

Accreditation

NUI

Place on NFQ

Level 8 (Special Purpose award) what is this?

Commences

September 2024

Application Deadline

September 2024

Fees

€1,750 (including all matriculation and examination fees), payable in one or two instalments. 

Employers and Fees

Where employers are paying fees, students, when enrolling, must provide a PO number and employer authorisation on the applicaiton form OR submit a letter from their employer confirming that fees will be paid directly. 

Students Paying their own Fees

Fees can be paid by:

  • Electronic transfer (contact the Undergraduate Office).
  • Debit/credit card (contact the Undergraduate Office).
  • Cheque (payable to the Institute of Public Administration).
  • Bank draft

Note: Fees may increase slightly from year to year. Where this occurs, students will be charged the increased fee.  

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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. 

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

 

Enquiry Form

 

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