Program Overview

Overview of the Applied Building Repair and Conservation Program

The Applied Building Repair and Conservation program is a one-year, part-time course designed to provide students with a solid knowledge of materials and built fabrics, both modern and traditional. The program covers the causes and mechanisms of failure and the traditional as well as the most advanced ways to repair and preserve them.

Course Details

• NFQ Level: 9
• Duration: 1 year part-time
• Number of Places: 15
• Next Intake: September 2025
• Course Director: Dr. Sara Pavia
• Closing Date: 31st July 2025

Admission Requirements

Applicants must provide at least two professional references. All applicants to Trinity are required to provide official evidence of proficiency in the English language, meeting Band B (Standard Entry) English language requirements.

Course Structure

The part-time course comprises approximately 86 hours of core lectures, 18 hours of practical lectures and case studies, 18 hours of laboratory work, and nine hours of site visits. These are normally held on Friday 7pm-10pm and Saturday 9.30am-12.30pm each week throughout the two semesters (September to April). In addition, each student shall complete a research thesis.

Course Content

Course modules include:

• Research and Documentation
• The Built Heritage, Archaeology, Vernacular Architecture, Legislation
• Building Surveying and Recording, BIM for Historic Structures
• Building Stone, Ceramics, Metals, Timber, Thatch and Mudwall
• Building Limes and Cements, Concrete
• Heat and Moisture, Retrofitting for Energy Performance
• Construction Technology and Project Management, Repairs, Case Studies
• Structural Damage, Repairs to Masonry Fabrics and Building Elements, Structural Case Studies
• The Research Project

Assessment

The award of a Postgraduate Diploma in Applied Building Repair and Conservation is based on a combination of the results of two examination papers and a research project. Each paper constitutes one third and the project the remaining third of the overall assessment. Students must pass each paper and the project. There is no system of compensation. The pass mark for the examinations and the project is 40%. A Distinction is awarded to those who obtain an average mark of 70% or more in both the project and two papers combined at the summer examinations.

Career Opportunities

Graduates have pursued diverse careers in areas including conservation project management, policy, and consultancy. The Applied Building Repair and Conservation course can provide graduates with the knowledge, skills, and practical experience required to work in a range of careers in building conservation and heritage management.

Fees

For a full list of postgraduate fees, please refer to the relevant section of the university's website.

Program Recognition

This course has been approved by Engineers Ireland as meeting its requirements for continuing professional development and is recognised by the RIAI (Royal Institute of the Architects of Ireland) in connection with the RIAI Conservation Accreditation System.