CIH Certificate in Housing Practice

This is a one-year, day release course, incorporating a progression from the CIH Level 3 Certificate in Housing Practice. Students study a comprehensive range of housing issues on the course, which is specially designed for those working, or those contemplating working in social housing in ALMOs, housing associations, local authorities, or the voluntary or private sector. The course gives a very wide knowledge and skills base to those taking part.

Course content

The course explores social housing in its contemporary setting, as well as relating this to social housing practice in the past. Customer services, including service-user involvement in housing management and regulation is another significant strand. Housing policy, in terms of legislative and policy considerations forms a large component of the course, as does the practice of managing estates and neighbourhoods. Regeneration forms part of the programme, as does the management of staff and resources.

• Housing and society
• Customer service for housing
• Housing policy
• Housing management and neighbourhood services
• Managing people

Entry Requirements

The CIH Level 4 Certificate in Housing Practice is for those working in the field of social housing in ALMOs, housing associations, local authorities, and the voluntary sector. Places are also available for those wishing to enter this line of employment. Applicants should normally be educated to A Level (Level 3) standard in a relevant discipline, together with being competent in the English language to GCSE grade C, or equivalent.

Delivery & Assessment methods

The course delivery is contained within one day per week. Assessment is continuous, by both written and practical assignments. There are no formal exams.

Progression

Career opportunities exist within ALMOs, housing associations, local authorities, and the voluntary and private sectors. Academic progression is usually to the CIH Level 4 Diploma in Housing Practice. Other progression routes in Higher Education can be discussed, and should be available.