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

Course Overview

The aim of the Higher Diploma in Residential Energy Retrofit Management programme is to upskill building professionals to develop knowledge and skills that allow them to design and deliver high quality, energy efficient retrofitting to existing buildings while complying with Ireland’s latest Building Regulations. This will also place them in a position to contribute to meeting Ireland’s climate action and energy targets in relation to green renovation of buildings. It will additionally boost demand for energy efficiency from householders and the public sector by having a trusted industry professional/standard.

Entry Requirements

• An honours degree (level 8) in a cognate (e.g. Engineering, Architecture, Building Services, Construction Management etc.) discipline or approved equivalent qualification
• A level 7 qualification in a cognate discipline (e.g. Engineering, Architecture, Building Services, Construction Management etc.,) or approved equivalent qualification, with 1-year relevant work experience.
• Recognised Prior Learning (RPL) – Assessment

English Language Requirements

Applicants who do not have English as their first language must ensure they satisfy English Language requirements. For entry to undergraduate courses, a score of 5.5 in an IELTS or equivalent exam is required. For postgraduate courses, a score of 6.0 in an IELTS or equivalent exam is required.

Course Content

Topics

• Certificate in Residential Energy Retrofit Fabric (Option 1)
  • Credits: 20
  • Building Physics and Fabric (10 credits)
  • Air Tightness (5 credits)
  • Building Defects, Detection and Analysis (5 credits)
• Certificate in Residential Energy Retrofit Systems (Option 2) (Semester 2)
  • Credits: 15
  • Heating and DHW for Residential Retrofit (5 credits)
  • Ventilation Systems for Energy Retrofit (5 credits)
  • RES Electricity and Smart Buildings (5 credits)
• Certificate in Residential Energy Retrofit Management (Option 3) (Semester 3)
  • Credits: 25
  • Project Management for Residential Energy Retrofit (5 credits)
  • Retrofit Business, Planning and Finance (5 credits)
  • Circular Economy and Procurement (5 credits)
  • Energy Retrofit Project (10 credits)

Career Opportunities

• On successful completion of the Higher Diploma in Residential Energy Retrofit Management (Level 8) programme students may apply for Level 9 qualifications in the field of engineering as appropriate and available with TUS.
• Graduates can be employed within residential retrofit “One Stop Shops” or with SME’s providing services within the residential sector and contributing to the target to renovate 500,000 buildings by 2030 in Ireland

Delivery

• Modules are to be delivered over one 1.5 yrs (3 semesters) in a blended learning format.
• Tuesday and Thursday evening online lectures 7-9pm weekly
• Full day face to face practical workshops and site visits on Fridays or Saturdays (TBC)

Assessment

• A variety of continuous assessment techniques include:
  • Online quizzes
  • Individual projects per semester
  • Group project per semester
  • Project journal
  • Main retrofit project with presentation

Qualification

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

Fees

• €5,700
• DASBE funding of €2,500 – Student pays €3,200
• Applicants may wish to complete one of the following certificate options, the fees are as follows;
  • Option 1: Certificate in Residential Energy Retrofit Fabric Fee: €2,500
  • Option 2: Certificate in Residential Energy Retrofit Systems Fee: €1,900
  • Option 3: Certificate in Residential Energy Retrofit Management Fee: €3,125

Application Deadline

• 15th August 2025
• Places are allocated on a first come first served basis, prioritizing unemployed and returning applicants.
• Course will be closed once the maximum number of applicants is reached.
• Courses run subject to viable numbers.

---

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

Technological University of the Shannon (TUS)

---

Overview:

Technological University of the Shannon (TUS) is a multi-campus university in Ireland, offering a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across various disciplines. It is known for its focus on applied learning and innovation, fostering strong industry ties and providing excellent employment opportunities for its graduates.

---

Services Offered:

TUS provides a comprehensive range of services to its students, including:

Admissions & Support:

Admissions guidance, international student support, open days, student finance information, induction programs, and student support services.

Campus Life:

Accommodation options, career and employability services, chaplaincy and pastoral care, disability supports, learning support, student counselling, student health services, sports facilities, student union, clubs and societies.

Faculty Areas:

Business, Hospitality & Humanities, Engineering, Built Environment & Informatics, Sciences, Health & Technology, and Limerick School of Art & Design.

---

Student Life and Campus Experience:

TUS prioritizes a student-first approach, offering small class sizes and personalized attention. Students can expect a vibrant campus life with a range of clubs, societies, and sports activities. The university also provides comprehensive support services to ensure a positive and enriching student experience.

---

Key Reasons to Study There:

Applied Learning & Innovation:

TUS emphasizes practical skills and real-world application, preparing students for successful careers.

Strong Industry Ties:

The university has strong connections with industry partners, providing students with valuable internship and employment opportunities.

Excellent Employment Opportunities:

TUS graduates are highly sought after by employers, with a strong track record of successful career outcomes.

Vibrant Campus Life:

Students can enjoy a diverse and engaging campus experience with a range of clubs, societies, and sports activities.

Comprehensive Support Services:

TUS provides a wide range of support services to ensure students' academic and personal success.

---

Academic Programs:

TUS offers a wide range of academic programs, including:

Undergraduate:

Programs in various disciplines, including business, engineering, science, technology, art, and design.

Postgraduate:

Master's and PhD programs in specialized fields.

Apprenticeships:

Programs in various trades and technical fields.

Flexible & Professional Learning:

Programs designed for working professionals.

---

Other:

TUS is a QS 5 Star Rated University, recognized for its high-quality education and research. The university is also actively involved in research and development, with a focus on areas of national and global importance.