Certificate in Entrepreneurship (Built Environment)

Program Overview

Certificate in Entrepreneurship (Built Environment)

Overview

The Certificate in Entrepreneurship (Built Environment) consists of two modules taught over two semesters. The part-time Certificate in Entrepreneurship (Built Environment), 20 ECTS, NFQ Level 8 programme consists of two modules delivered over two semesters. The programme enables the learner to explore their entre/intrapreneurial aspirations and abilities by examining entrepreneurial theory, research, and process, and to apply creativity, innovation business and trade initiatives, and strategic management to these businesses within the built environment.

Why study the Certificate in Entrepreneurship (Built Environment at Griffith College

• You will develop an entrepreneurial mindset that will increase your value to potential employers or help you plan ventures of your own.
• Graduates possess directly applicable skills in project execution and project control across all of the complex elements of a project so that it can be successfully and professionally managed to its conclusion.
• This course provides awareness and a basic understanding of the legal issues frequently encountered by entrepreneurs, such as issues around financing, operations of a company, ownership structuring, the raising of capital, federal securities requirements, and exemptions, determining valuation, intellectual property, board formation, human resources, and exit strategies.
• The course is managed by Griffith’s long-standing Design Faculty and is delivered by experts from the industry.
• The combination of a mixture of online and on-campus lectures allows for minimal disruption to the normal working day.
• Full access to Student Adobe Creative Cloud - All Apps plan, which gives you 20+ cutting-edge creative tools for desktop, mobile, and web.

Course Highlights

• Designed to meet the skills required by industry
• Provides a solid foundation for those in the middle of their career, aspiring entrepreneurs, those looking to up-skill or who are returning to the workplace, to allow them to progress in the workplace.
• Explore entre/intrapreneurial aspirations and abilities by examining entrepreneurial theory, research, and process.
• Friendly, approachable staff (who are experts in their fields), provide a supportive learning environment.

Intake Dates

• Dublin - Part-Time - October 2025

Related Courses

• Certificate in Entrepreneurship and Project Management (Built Environment)
• Diploma in Entrepreneurship and Project Management (Built Environment)

Course Details

Course Modules

• Entrepreneurship I (10 ECTS)
  • The module enables learners to explore their entre/intrapreneurial aspirations and abilities by examining entrepreneurial theory, research and process. It introduces the learner to each of the variables that have to be considered when exploring entre/intrapreneurship as an owner/manager of a business or as an employee. Learners also develop an awareness of Finance and possible sources of investment available to entrepreneurs. The module also introduces the learner to design thinking.
• Entrepreneurship II (10 ECTS)
  • The module enables learners’ critical thinking in applying creativity, innovation, business, trade initiatives, and strategic management, to a business relevant to the built environment. Innovation, research, and new product development are essential to support the sustainability of the built environment. This module introduces the learner to examples of real-life successes and failures in business/product development scenarios; the role of prototyping, project teams, and brainstorming; and the possibility to support innovation in business, however small and incremental. Enterprises need to be aware of Government supports, grants, and initiatives available in Ireland to help entrepreneurs and the various funding options such as venture capitalists, sponsorship, crowdfunding, angel investors, and microfinance.

Course Contact

• Britt Berentzen
  • Design Programme Director
  • Dublin Main Campus

Timetables

This course is scheduled to commence September 2025 at Griffith College Dublin's Main Campus and online via Zoom.

One Thursday evening per week from 6.30 pm -8.00 pm (online) and every second Saturday on campus from 10.00 am to 1.00 pm, over 2 semesters.

Year 2025

Timetables are to be confirmed closer to the start date.

How to Apply

Entry Requirements

Applicants to the programme must meet normal QQI requirements, Level 7 or equivalent, award on the National Framework of Qualifications.

The applicants require a background from building design and construction-related programmes. CV showing relevant experience within the field is required.

English Language

If English is not your native language, you must show that your English level is of a suitable standard.

Fees

Tuition Fees

• Irish/EU citizens, living in Ireland
  • Study Mode: Part-Time
    • Dublin Main Campus: €1886.00
      • (Inclusive of Tuition Fee €1550.00, Academic Administration Fee €250.00, 2% Learner Protection Charge (€36.00) and €50.00 QQI Award fee)

General Fee Information

• An Academic Administration Fee of €250 is payable each September at the start of term. For students starting in the January/February term, €125 is payable in February, and then €250 will be payable each September from then onwards.
• A 2% Learner Protection Charge is applicable each academic year.
• A QQI Award Fee applies in the final year of all QQI courses.

Progression

This course provides a pathway to the Certificate in Project Management (Built Environment), or the Diploma in Entrepreneurship and Project Management (Built Environment).

Program Outline

Learners examine essential business elements from an owner/manager or employee perspective. The program also covers finance fundamentals and various investment sources accessible to entrepreneurs. Design thinking is introduced to foster an innovative mindset.

• Objectives: Equip learners with the knowledge and skills to:
• Apply core entrepreneurial principles to real-world scenarios.
• Develop innovative business and trade endeavors.
• Enhance project execution & management skills.
• Achieve sustainable built environments through research and new product development.
• Leverage strategic entrepreneurship strategies for business success.
• The program culminates in a practical and professional project completion.
• Graduates gain valuable real-world experience alongside theoretical knowledge.
• Successful completion enables further progression to specialized postgraduate coursework.

Outline:

• Program Duration: One Year (2 Semesters)
• Mode of Delivery:
• Part-Time Blended Learning
• One evening per week (6.30 pm - 9.30 pm)
• Every second Saturday (10.00 am - 5.00 pm)
• Course Structure:
• Two modules taught over two semesters:
• Entrepreneurship I (10 ECTS):
Focuses on foundational entrepreneurial concepts, research, and processes. Introduces design thinking, finance basics, and investment sources.
• Entrepreneurship II (10 ECTS): Delves into applying practical strategies like creativity, innovation, and effective business management.
Analyzes real-world case studies, new product development, and sustainability practices. Explores government support initiatives, funding options, and project prototyping techniques.

Teaching:

• Teaching Approach:
• Combination of online lectures and on-campus workshops.
• Interactive learning environment designed to facilitate engagement and knowledge construction.
• Faculty: Experienced industry professionals and Griffith College Design Faculty members.
• Unique Features:
• Personalized and supportive learning environment.
• Access to Adobe Creative Cloud (20+ applications) for project development.

Careers:

• Career Opportunities:
• Entrepreneurs
• Project Leaders
• Business Developers
• Innovation Managers
• Consultants
• Program Benefits:
• Enhanced value for potential employers.
• Increased entrepreneurship skills for new ventures or advancement within existing organizations.
• Develop project execution and management skills.
• Gain awareness of legal issues encountered by entrepreneurs.
• Further Progression:
• Certificate in Project Management (Built Environment)
• Diploma in Entrepreneurship and Project Management (Built Environment)

Other:

• Eligibility:
• QQI Level 7 or equivalent award on the National Framework of Qualifications.
• Background in building design and construction-related programs.
• Relevant experience within the field (demonstrated through CV).
• English Language Requirements:
• Intake Dates:
• September 2024 (Dublin - Part-Time, Blended)
• Application Process:
• The program equips learners with the relevant skills and knowledge to navigate the complex landscape of entrepreneurship.

Overall:

The Certificate in Entrepreneurship (Built Environment) is a well-structured program offering individuals the opportunity to explore their entrepreneurial ambitions and equip themselves with the essential tools for success. With its strong focus on practical application and supportive learning environment, this program provides a valuable stepping stone for aspiring entrepreneurs and professionals seeking development within the built environment sector.