Near Zero Energy Buildings (Certificate, L6, 20 ECTS)

Program Overview

Near Zero Energy Buildings (Certificate, L6, 20 ECTS)

Course Overview

The aim of the programme is to provide an introduction to sustainable building design and in particular approaches required to achieve Near Zero Energy Building (NZEB) standards by addressing building fabric, air tightness and ventilation and integration of approach renewable energy systems. The programme focuses specifically on the residential sector. The residential sector accounts for 25% of all energy used in Ireland. Energy Performance of Buildings Directive has defined NZEB requirements. In addition, changes in building regulations and compliance criteria, continued development of micro generation systems and emerging innovative design solutions require professionals with expertise and knowledge of in this continually evolving area. This programme, will deal with passive solar and sustainable building design, renewable energy systems and air-tightness/ventilation with a particular focus on the residential sector.

The programme is targeted at architects, builders, engineers and others involved in the building sector. Participants will develop an outline design for a new or retrofitted building with the aim of achieving a Near Zero Energy Building.

Entry Requirements

• Minimum requirements will normally be a pass in six Leaving Certificate subjects including Mathematics or an equivalent qualification. Equivalence may be demonstrated by an appropriate qualification and significant relevant experience.
• Recognised Prior Learning (RPL) – Assessment: Please review the entry requirements for this programme. If you do not hold these qualifications but would like your application to be assessed under RPL please select YES on the online application form and the Flexible Learning Office will be in contact.
• HCI Pillar 3 Funding: Applicants must meet the eligibility criteria for the HCI Pillar 3 funding, as set out by the HEA. We would encourage you to read the criteria prior to making an application, to ensure you are eligible to apply.
• ENGLISH LANGUAGE: Applicants who do not have English as their first language must ensure they satisfy English Language requirements. For entry to undergraduate courses, a minimum score of 5.5 in an IELTS exam is required. For postgraduate courses, a minimum of 6.0 is required. It is the responsibility of the applicant to ensure their English proficiency meets these requirements.

Course Content

• Sustainable Building Design
• Air Tightness and Ventilation
• Renewable Energy Systems
• NZEB Project

Delivery

• 2 Semesters – 12 Weeks per semester
• Semester 1: Tuesday – 7-8pm
• Semester 2: Tuesday – 7-9pm
• Two workshop/onsite days TBA
• The proposed delivery schedule is subject to change.

Time Commitment

• Each 5 credits will normally equate to approximately 100 Total Learning Hours. Total Learning Hours includes the time you spend in class (lectures, tutorials, practical elements) and the time you spend completing work outside of college. The balance between these two varies by discipline, and by level of study. You should bear in mind that the workload will increase at particular times e.g. when assignments are due.

Assessment

• There will be no final examination but the programme is assessed using formal academic procedures. Assessment will be carried out through a combination of Case Studies, Online Exams and engagement in online activities.

Qualification

• Certificate in Near Zero Energy Buildings (Special Purpose Award, Level 6, 20 Credits)

Fees

• €1,900 – HCI Pilar 3 Funded to successful applicants – Student pays €380

Application Deadline

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

Program Outline

The program emphasizes building fabric, air tightness, ventilation, and the integration of renewable energy systems, particularly within the residential sector. The program's objectives include:

• Equipping participants with the knowledge and skills to achieve NZEB standards.
• Focusing on the residential sector, which accounts for 25% of Ireland's energy consumption.
• Addressing the evolving requirements of the Energy Performance of Buildings Directive, building regulations, and compliance criteria.
• Exploring the development of micro-generation systems and innovative design solutions.
• Developing an outline design for a new or retrofitted building with the goal of achieving NZEB status.
The program is designed for architects, builders, engineers, and other professionals involved in the building sector.

Outline:

The program is structured as follows:

• Delivery:
• Two semesters, 12 weeks each.
• Semester 1: Tuesdays, 7-8 pm.
• Semester 2: Tuesdays, 7-9 pm.
• Two workshop/onsite days to be scheduled.
• The delivery schedule is subject to change.
• Course Content:
• Sustainable Building Design
• Air Tightness and Ventilation
• Renewable Energy Systems
• NZEB Project

Assessment:

• The program is assessed using formal academic procedures.
• Assessment is conducted through a combination of:
• Case Studies
• Online Exams

Careers:

• The program aims to equip participants with the knowledge and skills to work in the building sector, specifically in the area of sustainable building design and NZEB standards.
• Potential career paths include:
• Architects
• Builders
• Engineers
• Other professionals involved in the building sector

Other:

• The program is offered online.
• The program is part-time.
• The program is delivered by the Department of Built Environment.
• The program is funded by HCI Pillar 3.
• The application deadline is August 11, 2024.
• Places are allocated on a first-come, first-served basis, prioritizing unemployed and returning applicants.
• The course will be closed once the maximum number of applicants is reached.
• Courses run subject to viable numbers.

€1,700 – HCI Pillar 3 Funding – Student pays €340