Course Details
This is a postgraduate certificate, internationally recognised as an advanced level of study and qualification for those wishing to enhance their existing qualifications and advance to more senior positions in facilities and workplace management.
Fee
€3,995.00Start Date
7th October 2023Qualification
Level 9 CertificateLevel
PostgraduateLocation(s)
Portobello InstituteCourse Duration
1 academic semesterOverview
The Postgraduate Certificate (PGC) in Facilities & Workplace Management sets out to develop the critical and practical skills which can be applied in the practice of facilities and operational management in a highly competitive global market place. Building upon the knowledge gained from undergraduate studies and/or experiential learning in the workplace, this postgraduate qualification is ideal if you are seeking an industry specific qualification, to enhance your existing qualifications, and add credibility to your knowledge and experience.
A flexible study option to balance work, study and life
This postgraduate certificate is designed to offer a level 9 qualification for those coming from a broad spectrum of degree programmes, such as business, finance and engineering. The blended learning delivery mode is a flexible study option for those seeking to fit learning around work and family. There is access to extensive learning resources and support materials through our virtual learning environment that enables students to choose the time and place most suited for them to study.
Cultivate strategic thinking
Cultivating strategic thinking is a core theme and the programme is taught from this perspective. Tutors are experienced industry leaders, ensuring the relevance of the content to the FM sector. Graduates can immediately implement their learning and make a positive impact to the success of their working environment.
Combine working full-time with study from anywhere
These modules have been designed by Portobello Institute for blended online learning so you can study from anywhere and in your own time. This online blended learning option gives mature students and those working or training full-time, the opportunity to access this masters degree qualification from anywhere in the world.
Accessible, affordable, achievable
There is an easy payment plan designed to make this degree affordable for you. These factors, together with the one to one tutorial support, offer you the opportunity to access a career in performance analysis, with a qualification that is accessible, affordable and achievable.
Here are some reasons to choose to study with Portobello:
- Accelerated programme completing your qualification in four months, getting you out into the world of work faster.
- Career focused qualifications – our courses lead to awards that offer you the opportunity of immediate employment upon graduation.
- Notable university partners – our university partners are among the top-ranking universities in the UK offering you access to a qualification from a renowned university.
- Realistic entry requirements – our entry requirements are reflective of the academic ability needed to successfully complete this course. These are clearly stated and remain static regardless of demand for places.
- Individualised support – we fit your learning model with support available when you need it throughout your learning journey.
- SMART assessments – we use a range of assessments for each module designed to support a broad range of learning styles, giving you the opportunity to excel.
- Industry expert tutors – our tutors are all industry practitioners connecting research and theory with industry practice throughout their lectures.
- Flexible delivery – we deliver theory sessions online whilst also recording the session simultaneously offering you a choice of when and how you learn.
- Affordable payment options – all our courses offer you the option to choose an easy payment plan supporting you to spread the cost out over your learning journey.
Why should I study this course?
This PGC Facilities & Workplace Management provides a grounding in understanding the strategic components of facilities management, evaluating strategic direction and planning for effective implementation of the strategy selected. You will have the opportunity to learn from a range of experts in the field of facilities management to gain a postgraduate qualification and further your career as a leader in professional facilities management.
Build your career with a strong network of connections
Building a strong network of connections is essential as you advance your career to senior level. Portobello Institute has an established network of connections and we offer our students the opportunity to engage with those connections through live and online events run annually.
Choose to gain a level 9 qualification with flexibility to progress to Masters
You may already hold a masters qualification in another discipline or are not yet ready to undertake a full masters programme. This postgraduate certificate is structured for completion over a 4 month period. The modules you will complete for the postgraduate certificate form part of the our MSc In Facilities and Workplace Management. You will have the opportunity to progress on to complete this masters should you chose or you may chose to graduate with a recognised industry specific postgraduate certificate.
This choice gives you flexibility to choose your learning journey to suit the demands of work and home life and to complete the MSC in Facilities Management at a later date.
The global facility management market is projected to grow from $1,260.36 billion in 2022 to $1,856.44 billion by 2029, at a CAGR of 5.7% in the forecast period... the opportunity is immense.
- Fortune Business Insights, June 2022.
Who will recognise my qualification?
Upon completing this level 9 programme, you will hold a Postgraduate Certificate in Facilities and Workplace Management awarded by London Metropolitan University (London Met). This post graduate certificate is mapped to the National Framework of Qualifications and aligns as a level 9 qualification.
Students are registered as postgraduate students of London Metropolitan University and will receive a student card confirming their student status.
Qualifications Frameworks in Ireland and the UK
The Irish and UK qualifications authorities have collaborated on initiatives that promote the transparency, recognition and mobility of qualifications between our respective jurisdictions. The qualifications authorities in the UK and Ireland have agreed the qualifications frameworks in operation, Brexit will not impact this agreement. Further guidance on this framework is available here.
What will I study during this New – Postgraduate Certificate in Facilities Management – PGC – Starts October ’23 course?
This postgraduate programme is designed to encourage critical thinking leading to a strategic rather than operational mindset. Practical industry insights and presentations ensure that students relate theory to real-life work scenarios.
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Project Management in Facilities Management
Increasingly facilities managers are required to manage projects. Facilities Management workplace projects can range from commission new work areas, implementing new methods for work, sustainability programmes or reallocation of staff. To successfully execute these projects, facilities managers need to set out an approach which is structured to complete the project. This module provides the learner with the core learning and knowledge required to equip them projects on time and meeting expectations. This module uses the Association of Project Management Body of Knowledge (APMBOK), and prepares learners in the capabilities required for effective project management: managing resources, time, people, and the project as a whole. The module includes both the use of computer programmes for project management and approaches to managing people and leading and motivating teams.
Your Lecturer
Tony O Gorman
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Strategic Management for the Workplace and Facilities Management
Strategy is concerned with the development, success and failure of all types of organisations, from multinationals to entrepreneurial start-ups, including charities to government agencies, and many others. Strategic management constitutes a key element of all professional business and management qualifications. The facilities managers role, in terms of strategy, is different from other aspects of management. Facilities manager, as an operational manager, is required to deal with problems of operational control in the workplace and the monitoring of financial performance while maintaining a high level of internal customer service. Facilities managers spend most of their time involved in operational management.
Operational management, and managing resources, is essential for the success of strategy but it differs greatly from strategic management. Strategic management is concerned with the large amount of complexity within the workplace which have organisation wide implications. Facilities managers whom are used to managing daily operations and resources are often challenged to understand the organisational overall strategy. This module equips facilities leaders with the knowledge, skills and techniques required to critically analyse contemporary organisations within changing environments both nationally and globally.
This module sets out the key elements of strategic management using Fundamentals of Strategy. Learners will be able to formulate, evaluate and defend realistic and creative proposals for future strategic direction of the Facilities Management department; and to plan for the effective implementation of the workplace strategy selected.
Your Lecturer
Eoin O Sullivan
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Fundamentals of ESG and Sustainability
Core Module – 20 credits at Level 9
The field of corporate social responsibility has practically transformed our world and reoriented the way organisations conduct and perceive their operational activities. Corporate managers, including facilities and those who represent organisations are always expected to behave ethically. Modern societies now expect that solutions to our social and environmental problems cannot only be the prerogative of nation governments, businesses of the 21st century have a lot to contribute when finding solutions to these problems.
The demands modern stakeholders put before organisations have continued to increase; tomorrow’s managers need to know how to meet these demands. Some scholars have in fact argued that corporate social responsibility has drawn our attention to some of the excesses which globalisation has brought unto the corporate scene in the 21st century.
We have seen some unacceptable practices which have accompanied globalisation and consequently made the job of CSR and what it advocates much more difficult. Many things have been made a lot more challenging for everyone because of this. We cannot ignore the adverse impacts of these excesses. There are several unacceptable practices in the form of injustices and human rights abuses, extreme poverty in several nation states both emerging and even some advanced nations, environmental degradation, some irresponsible and reckless practices by some corporate leaders and terrorism on a very large scale. In recent years, several social, economic and environmental problems have continued to cause concern to us all, for example; climate change, waste management and irresponsible use of our depletable resources just to mention a few.
Your Lecturer
Bernard MacOscair
Who will I learn from?
Programme Manager

Derek Fox
Derek Fox is a man whose experience spans many industries. He leads Portobello Institute’s MSc in Aviation Management and brings a wealth of experience to the role.
He has worked directly with companies such as Aer Lingus and the Dublin Aviation Authority, playing a key part in providing consultancy and strategic advice during an important transitional period for the airline.
He is a lead facilitator and director of DFLeap consulting and has previously worked as a senior specialist in the area of management, leadership and communications with the IMI (Irish Management Institute).
With over 30 years’ experience in learning design, management, coaching and development he has spent 15 years in a large multinational corporation and has worked in both business and academia across Europe, Asia, and America.
“I began my career as an Engineer but became passionately involved in Psychology in my twenties. This led me to work as a trainer/lecturer in leadership and management where I enjoy working with individuals and organisations to unlock their full potential.
“I have published a number of books including the popular ‘Discovering your Style and Dealing with Difficult People’ and am a regular contributor to business and press publications,” he said.
Derek is the program leader of our MSc in Aviation Management so students will get the chance to learn from him in key areas such as “understanding how to do a dissertation, what ethical research is, how to develop research questions and objectives, selecting appropriate methodologies to inform and address your answering of the research question and how to draw conclusions based on your primary research. Not to mention statistical analysis,” he said.
Derek is ambitious for his students and the opportunities Aviation Management can bring to their careers.
“We have students across multiple sectors of the aviation industry. Our aim is to reach aviation sectors like engineering, fleet management, fleet rentals, all that kind of stuff, on top of airlines and airport operations.
Qualifications Held
- MSc Organisational Behaviour
- MA Psychology
- BA People Management
- Level A and B Psychometrics
- CiPD Certificate in Training Practice
- Sports Psychology
- Master Trainer Program
Personal Academic Tutor
Each student is assigned a personal academic tutor to support you throughout your learning journey. They are available to offer you telephone and email support at any time. You can arrange to meet them for further one to one guidance at a time convenient to you.
Many of our past graduates have found it is the opportunity to ask a simple question, seek direction and submit a draft of their assessment that supported them most to successful completion. Emailing your tutor at any stage during your programme to ask a query or submit a draft of your assessment supports you to achieve your personal best throughout your studies with Portobello.
This level of one to one support is a particular benefit to choosing Portobello as your Institute of choice to complete your studies.

Tony O Gorman
Position: Senior Lecturer
“We are dealing with unprecedented change in our industry. It is imperative therefore to keep upskilling, networking and seeking new ways to deliver FM in the most efficient and effective manner.”
About Tony
I have worked in engineering, maintenance and management roles for the last four decades, in a variety of senior roles for multinationals, the not-for-profit sector, various parts of the public sector in addition to running my own successful businesses in the technical consulting, training and industrial maintenance sectors. I have worked in Ireland, Africa, Southeast Asia, South America, United States and Ireland. I bring this wealth of knowledge and practical experience to the classroom.
Tony’s Teaching Philosophy
My teaching philosophy is based on early and continual engagement with students across the duration of their studies. I have witnessed the transformative effect that a successful learning experience has on the lives of students and has a particular interest in supporting adult learners returning to the classroom by utilizing learning sessions as forums for students to learn by solving real-world problems using practical work experiences. I have a wide range of teaching experiences in both public and private education institutes. I lecture in the areas of FM Asset Management, Risk, Health & Safety , Strategic Management, People and Change and Project Management.
Qualifications
- MBA Henley Management College/University of Reading
- M.A Health Services Management. UCD Whitaker School of Government and Management.
- Master of Engineering, Open University
- B. Eng. (Hons) in Environmental & Public Health Engineering. Open University
- Bachelor of Science (Hons) in Technology Management. IT Tallaght
- PMI PMP certification
- Doctoral Candidate – Doctorate in Business
- Administration (principal area of research is the area of organisational performance measurement and management)

Eoin O Sullivan
Position: Senior Lecturer
About Eoin
I began my career in 1990 in Mechanical services working on construction projects in the greater Munster area, e.g. Apple Inc. Cork Airport and Debeers, culminating in 2000 as a mechanical project supervisor. I then took up a position in a large private healthcare facility in Cork whereby I started my journey in Facilities Management. I was responsible for some key aspects of strategic management and operational functions. In the last few years I continued that journey as I moved to a large University to become a significant member of the FM team adding my experience and vision to the organisation.
I have always been a keen advocate of continuous personal and professional development and business today recognises this aspect and rewards it. I have achieved multiple qualifications in areas such as; mechanical services, process and chemical engineering, electrical and gas systems, leading empowered organisations, IOSH accreditation and project management.
My vast experience in these subjects coupled with 10 years construction experience and over 20 years of facility management allow me to cultivate rapport with students and develop course work and material based on practical experience in the workplace.
Eoin’s Teaching Philosophy
I am a qualified Engineer and a proud member of Engineer’s Ireland and I take pride in my attention to precision and detail. I base my lectures and teaching style on this philosophy. I strive to prepare and manage quality coursework relevant to the student with industry focus. The coursework is based on the required learning outcomes developed to engage students and peer learning. I have previously lectured with other adult education providers and the Cork Institute of Technology where I still guest lecture on career aspects with students to help them understand and see opportunities that lay ahead through education.
Qualifications
- Masters in Project Management
- Process and Chemical Engineer
- Qualified Plumber
- Electrical Systems
- Gas Systems
- Leading an Empowered Organisation
- Managing Safely – IOSH
Research / Industry Participation
- ISO 50001 – Energy management
- OHS 18001 – Occupational Health and Safety,
- ISO 9001- Quality Management Systems
- IAM – Institute of Asset Management
- Joint Commission International Standards
How will I learn?
Delivery Mode
What is Online with Webinar Learning?
Online with Webinar Learning is a form of blended learning. It re-structures the content introducing online learning together with interactive webinars and one to one tutor support. This mode of delivery includes contact tuition (by webinar) and web-based e-learning sessions. The e-learning platform is interactive including recorded sessions, webinars with weekly content and assigned tasks to themes and topics.
There are webinars held at regular intervals including the commencement of each module. Attendance is not mandatory but is encouraged for optimal learning. The webinars are designed to support students understand the requirements of the learning outcomes, the expectations of the assessment and meet their tutor for the module.
The Difference between Blended and Online with Webinars Delivery Modes
There are two blended learning delivery mode options to study courses in Portobello Institute.
Blended learning offers you the opportunity to study with lectures delivered on-site at the weekends.
Online with Webinars – you will not be required to attend on-site lectures if you are enrolled on a course with this delivery mode. All lectures are delivered online and are recorded so you can catch-up later.
What is a webinar?
A webinar, in the context of online learning, is a lecturer delivering a presentation or class online to a group of students. We use specifically designed e-learning software so you can participate in the class just as if you were present in the same room. You can ask a question of the lecturer at any stage during the class.
Interactive break-out rooms
The software is designed with “break-out rooms” where you can discuss a topic or complete a group exercise with a smaller group from your class. You will need a computer, laptop, tablet or smartphone that has internet connection, an audio facility so you can hear and speak during the class and a camera so your lecturer and fellow class participants can see you.
Secure online learning environment
The webinar is a secure online environment and only those permitted entry by the lecturer can gain access to the “classroom”. Webinars are recorded during each session and should you miss a session, you can catch up with the recorded session at a later date. You will only be able to access Webinars of the group you are assigned to.
Other delivery modes available
Course Structure
This programme has been specifically developed for professional facilities managers seeking to balance study with home life and a busy career. The modules and work load is designed to be achievable with considerable support available from expert industry experienced tutors.
Many senior FMs undertake this programme and it is the peer to peer learning and support they enjoy the most – this is actively promoted so you build your network as well as your knowledge during this programme.
Three modules over 1 semester
This is an online with webinars course delivered over 4 months with supported webinars held during scheduled Saturdays – schedule TBC. This level 9 post graduate certificate programme consists of three modules delivered over one academic semester.
Interactive webinars
This programme has 3 * 1 day webinars designed to support the student complete the module, assessments and engage in live case studies with our experienced industry professional tutors. Webinars are held on a Saturday from 10am to 4pm.
Attendance at webinars is not mandatory but is encouraged for optimal learning outcomes.
Induction webinar
There is an induction webinar held at the start of the course. This is usually held on an evening before the first module. The Induction webinar is delivered with the purpose of introducing the module tutor, setting out the learning outcomes, content, the assessment strategy and expectations for skills/knowledge development for the programme.
Elearning portal
All of the course material is held on an e-learning portal which is an easy to use online platform specifically designed for online learning programmes. During the induction, students will be introduced to the platform with practical demonstration of how to use the portal and access lessons quickly and easily. To complete this course, students must have a basic knowledge of using a computer and searching the internet for research purposes.
Expert tutor support
The tutorial webinars held at the start and throughout each module introduce you to your tutor who will guide and support you throughout the module. These seminars lay out the module for you and support you to learn and acquire the skills you will need. The assessment and expectations for successful completion are covered in detail.
One to one support
Many of our past graduates have found it is the opportunity to ask a simple question, seek direction and submit a draft of their assessment that supported them most to successful completion. You can email your tutor at any stage during the module to ask a simple query or submit a draft of your assessment. Our programme management team are always available to offer you telephone and email support and if you need to, you can arrange to meet them for further one to one guidance.
This level of one to one support is a particular benefit to choosing this mode of study. Portobello Institute has invested in a team of programme managers and tutors who are experienced in the field of facilities management as well as qualified and knowledgeable educators. They are available to assist you at every stage of this programme.
Broaden your professional network
Many graduates tell us they learn as much from each other as they do from tutors. Attending the webinars is key to meeting fellow students, engaging in discussion and exchanging ideas about facilities management. Meeting fellow students gives you the opportunity to create your study network for the duration of your learning journey. This network can prove extremely useful afterwards during your professional career.
The Academic Calendar
This post graduate Certificate runs from 07/10/23 – 28/01/24.
Tutorial webinar/seminar held on allocated Saturdays, 10am – 4pm.
Webinars are recorded so you may review at a later stage if you are unable to attend the live sessions.
How will I be assessed?
SMART assessments – we use a range of assessments for each module designed to support a broad range of learning styles, giving you the opportunity to excel.
The primary aim of the varying assessment styles is to support you to demonstrate your knowledge of theory and practical as a result of a range of assessments.
We encourage you to reflect on your knowledge gain with a number of assignments designed to explore your learning journey.
All of these assessment methods are seeking to support you to combine theory with scenario-based learning and how to practically implement these methods into your everyday practice.
Speak to an expert
Choosing a course that will lead you to your career of choice is a significant decision. Understanding the delivery modes, supports available, career opportunities and further study options are all key considerations when making your choice. Our course adviser team are experts in the courses Portobello offers, the employment prospects and possible progression routes to Masters programmes – they will guide you through the detail and support you with any queries you may have.
It is important you make the right choice for you and choose the Institute and course that will best suit your needs.
Your Consultant

Brandon McLean
I am Brandon McLean, the Corporate Admissions Manager here at the Portobello Institute and I can be contacted on 01 892 0035.
Education is a journey and the destination is a career that you love. I support the department that helps you to plan your journey so you can find the path that’s right for you. I have been with Portobello since 2018 and I love the elation that you can see on the face and hear in the voice of a student who talks through a complicated goal, who we can provide with a simple solution. When the conversation has finished and they can clearly see the path forward, I am thrilled. Education is a milestone in determining your future, and I cannot think of a better milestone to have a hand in.
How do I apply?
Entry is by direct application to Portobello Institute.
There are entry criteria available to students with differing qualifications/experience levels and these are detailed below.
Students seeking to enter using previous educational qualifications must hold one of the following qualifications:
- BSc (Hons) Facilities Management
- BIFM/IWFM Level 6
- Other Level 8 Degree holders with relevant experience in FM
Entry using Experiential Learning
Students may apply for entry to the MSc Facilities & Workplace Management using experience gained in the workplace in place of prior educational qualifications if they meet the eligibility criteria.
Applications are reviewed on a case by case basis with senior practical management knowledge a key criterion for entry via this route. Students will be advised of the best path of study for success, this may include an option of advanced entry on to the BSc (Hons) Facilities & Workplace Management
Our experienced course adviser team are available to support you with your programme choice. If you are unsure if this programme is right for you, please email your cv to brandon.mclean@portobelloinstitute.ie for further advice or call him on 01-8920035. We will support you to map your experience to date and any previous educational experience you may have to the FM programmes so that you can select the course best suited to your career ambition and educational experience.
Application Process
Step 1
Complete the online booking form.
Step 2
Applicants will be contacted for confirmation/evidence of meeting the entry criteria and year of entry will be confirmed.
Step 3
Confirmation of a place will be given to applicants immediately meeting the criteria.
Please note places on this course are only confirmed once tuition fees have been received. Early Application is advised.
Fees & Payment Options
Fees
Course Price
Per academic year.
Exam Body Reg. Fee
Per academic year.
Full Payment
Total amount payable.
Easy Payment Plan
Deposit of 33% upon booking. Balance paid in 4 instalments commencing the 1st of the month after the course starts. All additional fees such as instalment fees etc. are included in the easy payment plan.
Deposit + 4 Instalments
Deposit payment (€1,473.45), followed by 4 scheduled payments every 1 month(s). Includes one off instalment fee of €195.00.
- €747.89 due on 1st April 2023.
- €747.89 due on 1st May 2023.
- €747.89 due on 1st June 2023.
- €747.89 due on 1st July 2023.