Housing Studies MSc

About the course

• Flexible distance learning study mode for busy professionals
• The CIH MSc in Housing Studies is the second stage of the CIH’s work-related qualification which leads to corporate membership of the CIH
• You can choose to exit, upon successful completion of 120 Level 7 credits over two years,
  with a Postgraduate

Diploma in Housing Studies

The course incorporates the CIH work-based qualification, APEX. This is assessed in a variety of ways throughout the course, but you should note that attendance at a two-day residential course where your presentation and group working skills can be assessed is mandatory.

Key facts

UCAS course code:

Duration: Two years part-time

Institution code: D26

Entry and admission criteria

You should have a related first degree. Certain degrees and HNCs provide an obvious link to housing qualifications such as social policy, social sciences, politics, human geography, law, estate management, and building. Others are not relevant such as science and maths. However, there are a large number which fall within these two extremes but require more in-depth evaluation, such as English literature, languages, accountancy, and humanities. Those with substantial housing experience will be considered individually.

Non-related degree holders must undertake the one year Graduate Conversion Course (GCC), before enrolment. If you have other relevant experience and/or qualifications you may be admitted to the course at the discretion of our
admissions team.

If English is not your first language, an IELTS score of 6.5 (including a minimum of 5.5 in each component) or equivalent is normally required. English language tuition is available both before and during the course if required.

Teaching and assessment

Access to email and the internet are requirements of the course, as all induction and study materials are online. Assessment is entirely in the form of assignments issued by the CIH. The CIH Distance Learning Centre allocates a tutor who will work with you throughout the course. Personal tutors are also provided by CIH for additional support/queries about studying.

You should note that attendance at a study skills day is required at the start of the course (there are two intakes per year, one in March and one in September) and a one day introduction to the dissertation is also mandatory.

Course modules

You are sent study materials and assignment details and are linked to a tutor who provides academic support via telephone, post and email.

• Housing Studies comprises three core modules (two 30-credit and one 15-credit), plus a further three option modules (15 credits each). Context of Housing
• Choice of two modules from: Housing with Care and Support; Planning and Development; Regeneration and Sustainable Neighbourhoods; Customer and Neighbourhood Services; Asset Management; or Finance for Housing

Second year modules

• Housing Organisations
• Housing Research
• Choice of one module from: Housing with Care and Support; Planning and Development; Regeneration and Sustainable Neighbourhoods; Customer and Neighbourhood Services; Asset Management; or Finance for Housing.

If you successfully complete three modules (totalling 60 credits at Level 7) you may be eligible to receive a Postgraduate Certificate in Housing Studies.

Academic expertise

The CIH tutor team has a wide range of housing expertise. Curriculum is developed in partnership between DMU and CIH and is influenced by the latest research and publications undertaken by DMU.

Graduate careers

Graduates of our housing courses find themselves promoted to a variety of different posts at management and director level – not just in housing organisations, but across the public and private sectors.

Fees and funding