Diploma in Housing Practice

This is a one year, day release course, incorporating a progression from Level 4 Certificate in Housing Management. Students study a comprehensive range of housing issues on the course, which is specially designed for those working, or contemplating working, in social housing in ALMO's housing associations, local authorities, or the voluntary or private sector. This course gives a very wide knowledge and skills base to those taking part.

Course content

The course explores legal and financial issues within Housing, examining the possibilities and constraints across the sector. Working in partnership and issues of equality and diversity in service delivery are also significant strands on the course. The Diploma, in particular, facilitates participants’ self-examination of their own role – real and potential – within the field of social housing, and develops and encourages personal research within this area.

• Housing Law
• Professional practice skills for housing
• Partnership working in housing
• Research skills in housing
• Housing economics and housing finance
• Equality and diversity in housing

Entry Requirements

The CIH Level 4 Diploma in Housing Practice is for those working in the field of social Housing in ALMO's housing associations, local authorities, and the voluntary. Places are available for those wishing to enter this line of employment. Applicants should have normally completed the CIH Level 4 Certificate in Housing Practice, but the potentiality exists for the Diploma units to be completed first, followed by the units for the Certificate. Applicants should, in any case, 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.

Progression

Career opportunities exist within housing associations, ALMOs, local authorities, and the voluntary and private sectors. Academic progression is usually to a Foundation Degree, or to a Degree in social housing or a related field.