Atlantic Technological University has announced an expanded range of programmes in the Property Services and Facilities Management sphere, which are accredited by the Society of Chartered Surveyors Ireland (SCSI). The programmes developed in close collaboration with industry partners is in response to a growing market demand.
Delivered online through ATU’s Sligo campus these programmes offer students the ability to progress from ATU’s existing Level 6 Higher Certificate in Property Services and Facilities Management, growing career opportunities and building skills in this area.
An important partner in the development of this suite of programmes has been SCSI.
James Lonergan, Director of Education at SCSI commented “The Society of Chartered Surveyors Ireland is delighted to see the launch of these courses through our partnership with ATU. The availability of these online courses in Real Estate Development and Valuation and in Facilities Management (FM) provides a unique, flexible, accessible opportunity for students who wish to upskill on a part time basis”.
James went on to say “As the courses are all delivered online, they will help to address a significant skills gap in the industry by providing access to education to prospective students nationwide. The Level 8 Facilities Management course is the first SCSI accredited Facilities Management course in Ireland while the Real Estate courses will broaden education options and opportunities for learners. Those who complete either of this Level 8 Degree courses will be eligible to apply for Chartered Membership of the Society of Chartered Surveyors Ireland, which is a vital step in the career path for Property and Facilities Management professionals.”
These programmes allow graduates once chartered, to work anywhere in the world. Though specialised, there are various job opportunities available leading to an exciting career with many opportunities. Graduates will find themselves in flexible and varied working locations from office based to visiting onsite locations or clients’ properties. There is a unique mix of Construction and Business within these courses, from managing contracts, budgets, valuations, communication, negotiation, to surveying, measuring, planning and reporting.
Trevor McSharry, Head of Department of Civil Engineering and Construction on welcoming these new programmes commented that “this new suite of SCSI accredited programmes further strengthens ATU’s position in addressing unmet industry skills requirements through online and flexible part time programme provision, particularly in the property and facilities management areas.”
Property Services and Facilities Management are two specialised professions, and the new Level 7 programme gives students an opportunity to study in both fields. After completion of this Level 7 programme, they can advance to more specialised study at level 8 in either Property Services or Facilities Management.
Laura O’Donnell, Course Coordinator for the Level 8 BSc (Hons) in Real Estate Development and Valuation noted that “In recent years there has been a major emphasis on green buildings, energy efficiency management, sustainable building, and management. As such there are now synergies between Property Services, in particular Agency, Valuations and Management, and Facilities Management and Building Services. Life cycle costings and energy management are now crucial for clients, due to climate change and environmental targets for companies.”
The new suite of part-time online programmes available include a Level 7 BSc in Property Services and Facilities Management, a Level 7 Certificate in Auctioneering and Estate Agency Practice, a Level 8 BSc (Hons) in Facilities and Building Services Management (launching 2023) and a Level 8 BSc (Hons) in Real Estate Development and Valuation (launching 2023).
Applications for the Certificate in Auctioneering and Estate Agency Practice and the Bachelor of Science in Property Services and Facilities Management are open until 16th September 2022 with further information available at www.atu.ie/sligoonline.