Residential Energy Retrofit Management (Higher Diploma L8, 60 ECTS)

Program Overview

The Higher Diploma in Residential Energy Retrofit Management program empowers building professionals to design and execute energy-efficient retrofits for existing buildings. Through blended learning, students gain knowledge and skills in building physics, heating systems, and project management. Graduates are equipped for careers in residential retrofit companies and contribute to the nation's target of renovating 500,000 buildings towards sustainability.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

The Higher Diploma in Residential Energy Retrofit Management program aims to equip building professionals with the knowledge and skills necessary to design and execute high-quality, energy-efficient retrofits for existing buildings.

Outline:

The program is structured into three semesters, delivered over 1.5 years in a blended learning format.

Semester 1:

• Certificate in Residential Energy Retrofit Fabric (Option 1):
• Building Physics and Fabric (10 credits):
This module covers the fundamental principles of building physics and the various building fabric elements.
• Air Tightness (5 credits): This module focuses on the importance of air tightness in buildings and the techniques for achieving it.
• Building Defects, Detection and Analysis (5 credits): This module explores common building defects, their detection methods, and analysis techniques.

Semester 2:

• Certificate in Residential Energy Retrofit Systems (Option 2):
• RES Electricity and Smart Buildings (5 credits): This module covers renewable energy sources (RES) for electricity generation and the integration of smart technologies in buildings.

Semester 3:

• Certificate in Residential Energy Retrofit Management (Option 3):
• Retrofit Business, Planning and Finance (5 credits): This module explores the business aspects of residential energy retrofits, including planning and financial considerations.
• Circular Economy and Procurement (5 credits): This module examines the principles of the circular economy and its application to procurement in the context of energy retrofits.
• Energy Retrofit Project (10 credits): This module involves a practical project where students apply their knowledge and skills to a real-world energy retrofit scenario.

Assessment:

The program utilizes a variety of continuous assessment techniques, including:

• Online quizzes: These quizzes assess students' understanding of key concepts covered in the modules.
• Individual projects per semester: These projects allow students to demonstrate their knowledge and skills through independent research and application.
• Group project per semester: These projects encourage collaboration and teamwork, allowing students to work together on a specific energy retrofit challenge.
• Project journal: This journal documents the progress and reflections of students on their individual and group projects.
• Main retrofit project with presentation: This project culminates in a comprehensive energy retrofit plan, presented to a panel of experts.

Teaching:

The program is delivered in a blended learning format, combining online lectures with face-to-face practical workshops and site visits.

• Online lectures: These lectures are conducted on Tuesday and Thursday evenings, from 7:00 PM to 9:00 PM.
• Practical workshops and site visits: These sessions are held on Fridays or Saturdays, providing hands-on experience and real-world insights.

Careers:

Graduates of the Higher Diploma in Residential Energy Retrofit Management program can pursue various career paths within the residential retrofit sector.

• Residential retrofit "One Stop Shops": These companies offer a comprehensive range of services related to energy retrofits, and graduates can work as project managers, energy assessors, or technical advisors.
• SMEs providing services within the residential sector: Graduates can find employment with small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) specializing in energy-efficient renovations, contributing to the national target of renovating 500,000 buildings by 2030.

Other:

The program is subject to change based on student needs and industry developments. The program is designed to meet the growing demand for skilled professionals in the field of residential energy retrofits, contributing to Ireland's commitment to sustainable building practices and climate action.

Tuition fees: €5,700 – DASBE funding of €2,500 – Student pays €3,200