Residential Energy Retrofit Fabric (Certificate, L8, 20 ECTS)

Course Overview

The aim of the Certificate in Residential Energy Retrofit Fabric programme is to up-skill building professionals to develop knowledge and skills that allow them to design and deliver high-quality, energy-efficient retrofits 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 retrofitting of buildings. It will additionally boost demand for energy efficiency from householders and the public sector – Government and the public – 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: 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
• 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. It is the responsibility of the applicant to ensure their English proficiency meets these requirements

Course Content

Modules

• Building Physics and Fabric (10 ECTS)
  • Modes of heat transfer
  • Thermal Bridging
  • Heat Loss calculations
  • Properties of Insulation Materials
  • Insulation Systems
  • Assessment of Fabric upgrade options
• Air Tightness (5 ECTS)
  • Air tightness
  • Thermal comfort and air quality
  • Moisture management
  • Designing air tightness solutions
• Building Defects, Detection and Analysis (5 ECTS)
  • Digital Tools for Identifying Building Defects in Existing Buildings
  • Condition Assessment Reports for Existing Buildings
  • Building Fabric Defects Identification and Analysis for Energy Upgrades
  • Hygrothermal risk evaluation and modelling
  • U-value calculations
  • Maintenance and Repair

Delivery

• Delivered over one semester in a blended learning format
• Student Induction will take place on the evening of Wednesday, 3rd September 2025
• Classes will commence on week commencing 8th September 2025
• Tuesday and Thursday evening online lectures 18:30-21:30hrs weekly commencing Tuesday, 9th September 2025
• Live online classes will be recorded and available to watch back
• Full day face-to-face practical workshops and site visits on Fridays or Saturdays, details to be confirmed
• 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

• A variety of continuous assessment techniques include:
  • Online quizzes
  • Individual projects
  • Group project with presentation

Qualification

• Certificate in Engineering in Residential Energy Retrofit Fabric (Special Purpose Award, L8, 20 ECTS)

Fees

• €2,500 * This programme is Springboard + funded in 2025
• Successful applicants will qualify for 50% Springboard+ funding & will be liable for the remaining 50% of the fee, which is €1,250

Application Deadline

• Limited Places
• Places are allocated on a first-come, first-served basis, prioritizing unemployed and returning applicants
• The programme will be closed once the maximum number of applicants is reached
• Final cut off for applications, if spaces are still available, will be Friday, 18th July 2025
• Programmes run subject to viable numbers

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Degree Overview:

The Certificate in Residential Energy Retrofit Fabric programme aims to equip building professionals with the knowledge and skills necessary to design and execute high-quality, energy-efficient retrofits for existing buildings. It aims to boost demand for energy efficiency from both householders and the public sector by establishing a trusted industry professional standard.

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Outline:

• Building Physics and Fabric (10 ECTS):
• Modes of heat transfer
• Thermal Bridging
• Heat Loss calculations
• Properties of Insulation Materials
• Insulation Systems
• Assessment of Fabric upgrade options
• Air Tightness (5 ECTS):
• Air tightness
• Thermal comfort and air quality
• Moisture management
• Designing air tightness solutions
• Building Defects, Detection and Analysis (5 ECTS):
• Digital Tools for Identifying Building Defects in Existing Buildings
• Condition Assessment Reports for Existing Buildings
• Building Fabric Defects Identification and Analysis for Energy Upgrades
• Hygrothermal risk evaluation and modelling
• U-value calculations
• Maintenance and Repair

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Assessment:

• Online quizzes
• Individual projects
• Group project with presentation

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Teaching:

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Other:

• Each 5 credits typically equates to approximately 100 Total Learning Hours.
• Total Learning Hours include both in-class time (lectures, tutorials, practical elements) and time spent completing work outside of college.
• The balance between in-class and out-of-class time varies by discipline and level of study.
• Workload may increase at specific times, such as when assignments are due.

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Cost; €2,500 – HCI Pillar 3 funding. Student pays €500.

Technological University of the Shannon (TUS)

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.