Portobello Institute

Top-Up (1 yr) to BSc (Hons) Facilities & Workplace Management

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Course Details

This 1 year programme provides you with the opportunity to “Top-Up” to a BSc (Hons) Facilities and Workplace Management. This blended learning option enables you to work full-time whilst studying. This programme is aimed at those who already hold an IWFM level 5 or 6 diploma or a relevant undergraduate degree. Fulfil your potential and advance your career with this 1 year top-up to a BSc honours degree.

Level
Undergraduate
Qualification
Honours Degree
Course Delivery Mode Start Date Duration
Course
 Top-Up (1 yr) to BSc (Hons) Facilities & Workplace Management 		Delivery Mode
Blended Learning
 Start Date
 30th September 2023 		Duration
 1 year

Overview

Are you interested in advancing your career in facilities management with a BSc (Hons) in Facilities and Workplace Management? This 1 year top-up programme to an honours degree has been designed by Portobello Institute to support you to gain a recognised industry specific degree, giving credibility to the knowledge you hold and building on this so you can advance your career. This course offers you a flexible learning – you can study in a place of your choosing in your own time.

Essential knowledge to progress your career in Facilities Management

Designed for those students seeking to progress their career in the field of facilities management, the content of this degree will equip you with an in-depth knowledge of the industry. You will study a range of modules considering the fundamentals and operational dynamics alongside the main principles of strategic management in Facilities Management providing you with strong foundations to build and advance your career in the FM and related sectors.

A flexible learning journey to balance work, life and study

We understand the educational needs of those working in the FM sector, the challenges of working long hours in a demanding role, whilst trying to balance home life. This degree and mode of learning is ideally suited to you and will support you to achieve the qualifications you need to progress your career. Supported seminars are delivered by webinar, over the weekend, with one to one support available to you throughout your learning journey. Attendance at supported seminars is not mandatory however active participation is recommended to support optimum personal learning and academic outcomes.

Learn from the experts

This honours degree is delivered by a team of expert tutors who are experienced facilities managers and educators. You will have personal one to one support from a personal academic tutor who is an experienced FM  and is there to to support you throughout your learning journey to achieve your personal best.

An industry specific qualification, designed by industry, for industry

This Top-Up to a BSc (Hons) in Facilities & Workplace Management and the follow-on programme of a Masters in Facilities & Workplace Management are FM industry specific programmes. They have been designed in consultation with leading FM service providers and service contractors to ensure they meet the needs and demands of the sector.

Here are some reasons to choose to study with Portobello:

  • Accelerated programme completing your top-up to an honours degree in one year.
  • Career focused qualifications – our courses lead to awards that offer you the opportunity of industry focused qualifications.
  • 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.
  • Condensed scheduling – we value your time by ensuring your timetable is optimised for delivery.
  • Flexible delivery – we deliver theory sessions on-site, 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?

Portobello Institute’s Top-Up to a BSc (Hons) in Facilities and Workplace Management blended learning course gives you the opportunity to attain an honours degree through a flexible mode of delivery designed to fit learning around your busy working life.

Enhance your career opportunities with industry specific degree

With the demand and opportunities for professionally qualified FM’s at an all-time high, this degree draws on the range of disciplines from financial to risk management, leadership to project management, and operations management to innovation and business development. This industry specific BSc Honours degree is ideally suited to those seeking to gain a qualification and advance within this fast-paced sector.

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.

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 the business of fashion, with a qualification that is accessible, affordable and achievable.

 

 

"Rapidly changing organisational culture and work style is going to further boost the facility management market and fuel rapid growth - we need people who can lead and deliver that growth"

- Facility Management Market Report 2022, Allied Market Research

Who will recognise my qualification?

Upon completing this degree, you will hold a BSc (Hons) in Facilities and Workplace Management awarded by London Metropolitan University (London Met). This is an honours degree and is aligned with a level 8 on the National Framework of Qualifications.

You will be a registered student of London Met for the duration of your studies.

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.

Validated Agreement

One or more modules or the full course has been developed and delivered by Portobello Institute and has been evaluated and deemed by London Metropolitan university (London Met) to be of an equivalent standard and quality to that of its own provision, and therefore suitable to lead to one of its own awards.

What will I study during this Top-Up (1 yr) to BSc (Hons) Facilities & Workplace Management course?

During this 1 year programme you will focus on the areas of strategic facilities management through critically analysis for developing strategic decision-making skills. You will learn about the key theories, concepts and frameworks underpinning the study of Business Management in an FM context. Practical industry insights and presentations from our industry expert tutors ensure that you can relate theory to real-life work scenarios.

  • 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.

  • 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

  • CSR and Energy Management in Facilities Management

    Corporate  and  Social  Responsibility  (CSR)  and  Energy  for  Facilities  Managers  as  a module  plays  a  significant  role  in  developing  learners’  ethical  and  environmental responsibilities.  Sustainability  decisions  are  now  significant  factors  for  organisations when determining business strategies. Governments are driving change, consumers and organisations are increasingly including sustainability in their purchasing decisions.

    The module will prepare learners for real world practice through case study theory and to  undertake  and  to  communicate  tasks  and  assignments  linking  theory,  research, analysis,  evaluation,  evidence  and  practice.  It  will  provide  a  firm  foundation  in  the philosophical  and  practical  factors  that  characterize  CSR,  sustainability  and  energy management and fundamental concepts, ideas, practices and methodologies of Facilities Management.

    Energy  Management  within Facilities  Management promotes  the  efficient  utilization  of energy  in  industrial  and  commercial  environments.    This  module  provides  participants with  a  fundamental  understanding  of  energy  management  from  a  local,  national  and international perspective.

    Your Lecturer

    Eoin O’Sullivan

  • Procurement and Contract Management for the Workplace and Facilities Management

    This module plays a significant role in developing learners as ethical, responsible, well informed,   evidence-based   Procurement   and   Contract   Management   for Facilities Management. The correlation between procurement and service  delivery is examined and the criteria necessary for successful delivery of the daily Facilities Management service.    This module  provides  an  overview  of  outsourcing,  procurement,  contract  and contract management in the workplace and Facilities Management.

    Outsourcing in Facilities Management involves turning over decision-making to an entity external  to  the  organisation.    The  decision  to  outsource  the Facilities  Management,  or part  of  the Facilities  Management function  is  to maximise  returns  on  investment.   This module will outline how learners can determine the most suitable procurement strategy to serve the current workplace services by assessing the service requirements and the real cost of the service delivery.

    The  module  covers  the  content  and  structure  of  service  contracts  and  how  clear specifications  are essential  to  engage  and  maintain  high  levels  of  service  delivery, increase performance and control costs.  Selection of bidders and the  management of the tender process specific to services and successful negotiation techniques will also be explained.

    Your Lecturer

    Bernard MacOscair

  • Financial Management

    The  module  is  concerned  with  the  financial  decision  making  within  the Facilities Management department  and  the  facilities  manager  role  as  a  business  manager.  Decisions  in  terms  of  raising  revenue  cost  reduction  and  the  Financial  Position and required investment.

    The  module  examines  how  the  efficient  management  of  finance  by  the Facilities Management. is essential for funding the daily operations, maintenance, repair and any project works.

    It focuses on the strategic aspects of management accounting and will explore and critically evaluate management accounting techniques. This approach develops learners’ knowledge and critical understanding of the theoretical models, analytical methods and practical aspects of corporate financial decision making.

    Your Lecturer

    Kevin Murray

    "Students in this module get an insight into the way a finance function works and interacts with other functions in an organisation. The elements of the module which looks at the Budget process is particularly valuable as all department managers will at some point be heavily involved in preparing and reviewing budgets."

  • Industry Research Project

    This module focuses on the process of transforming data into information that will be useful to users, one being the writer of the report and another a potential specialist in the industry itself, i.e. a future employer. The undertaking of the investigation and project will enable the student to pursue a robust enquiry into the industry or sector in which they are hoping to find employment.

    Furthermore, this module will help students to prepare for the graduate job market by ensuring they have up-to-date application material and online profile as well as gaining further personal experience of the application process. Researching the report and completion of associated activities will enable students to excel at interviews.

    Your Lecturer

    Derek Fox

Who will I learn from?

Programme Manager

Gerry Kelly

For over 40 years Gerry worked in both the Private and Public Sectors. During that time, he held the position of Chief Executive with a Semi State Organisation; Press Secretary to the Minister for Finance and Minister for Labour; Senior Director Roles in Public Relations, Human Resources, Facilities Management, Customer Service, Corporate and Social Responsibility and Emotional Intelligence in State and Semi State Bodies. Prior to working in the Public Sector, he worked in the Printing Industry where he introduced the first computer setting facility to the Commercial Printing Sector in Ireland. He was also Ireland’s Graphic Designer of the Year.

Working with Portobello Institute for the past 7 years he is Programme Manager for the Facilities Management BSc and MSc Programmes. He also provides student support and mentoring on the Institutes IWFM Programmes along with lecturing on the Institutes CSR, Customer Relations, Strategic Management and Risk Management Programmes. His main reason for supporting Portobello is to continue working with people on their personal and career development while sharing with them his world of work experiences.

Gerry has direct hands-on and tutoring experience of almost 20 years in the areas of Customer Service, Active Citizenship and Corporate and Social Responsibility and has studied Active Citizenship and Corporate and Social Responsibility at Northwestern University Chicago; Advanced Strategic Management and International Marketing at the International Management Development Institute, Geneva; Commerce at UCD and Senior Executive Development, Irish Management Institute.

Working with Multi-National Corporations in Ireland, the US and Europe he designed, developed, tutored and implemented over 100 Corporate and Social Responsibility, Customer Service, Education, Emotional Intelligence and Cross Border Programmes targeted at influencing and improving the work opportunities and lives of people living in the Inner Cities of Belfast and Dublin.

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.

Bernard MacOscair

Position: Senior Lecturer

About Bernard

I am currently Senior Executive with a proven international, multi-site & multi-disciplinary track record in Operation Excellence, Business Development, Project Management, Utilities and Facilities. A lifelong student of organisational behaviour and operational excellence, I continue to deliver measured customer-centric results through my consulting firm Berka Solutions Ltd. An excellent communicator and leader at all levels, I have over 15 years’ experience in lecturing, training and development, with a strong belief in the power of change management through Continuous Improvement, Transformational and Lean Programs.

Bernard’s Teaching Philosophy 

As a believer in the Growth mindset, I hold education and personal development at the core of everything I do in class. My coaching, inclusive and collaborative style allows student to engage in their studies, therefore building their knowledge base.

Career Highlights 

As a passionate problem solver, I have led some significant program in the recent passed;

  •  Implemented a Change Management & Continuous Improvement program for a Large Multi-National Insurance Firm.
  • Delivered an accelerated Outsourcing program for a large Pharmaceutical Multi-National achieving over 1 million in cost savings.
  • Reduced FM spend for a portfolio of Pharma manufacturing sites from 24 million to 21 million through Operational Excellence program.
  • Build an Operations team from 1 to 100, restructured twice while increasing productivity by 17%.
  • Led a project team to implement LAAS (Light as a Service) solution that won the national FM project of the Year.
  • Led the overhaul of 138MW Generator in situ in India, saving over 2.2 million in costs.
  • Led the design, development, commissioning and validation of the largest automated Purified Water Room in Ireland at the time.

Qualifications 

  • MBA
  • BEng

 

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

Dermot Hardy

Position: Business Management Lecturer

“There is nothing more satisfying than explaining some theory to students, applying it to a real life example and then watching everyone nod as they get a real understanding of the issue .”

About Dermot Hardy

I feel very strongly that the level of talent and expertise in Ireland in is comparable to that available in other leading financial centres and the lecturing and training I provide reflects this. I really enjoy the teaching as I feel it gives me a chance to share my experiences with the students so that they can benefit from my real-life experiences. It also shows that you don’t have to go abroad to become an expert in your field, through hard work and study you can achieve that easily in Ireland.

Qualifications

  • M.A. Degree
  • Associate Member of the Corporate Treasurers
  • Irish Securitisation Forum (ISF)
  • Irish Securitisation Working Group
  • IFSC Banking & Treasury Committee (A sub-committee of the Clearing House Group under the auspices of the Department of An Taoiseach. )

 

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

Kevin Murray

“An investment in knowledge pays the best interest” (Benjamin Franklin).  Obtaining knowledge gives a lifetime of benefit, especially when that knowledge is related to your day to day work.”

Position: Financial Management Lecturer

About Kevin

I qualified as a Chartered Accountant in 1995 and have held a number of senior management roles since then in sectors as diverse as transport, healthcare and IT. I co-founded a software company and was head of finance for that company from incorporation, through international growth and onto a multi-million dollar trade sale to a US based multinational corporation.

Kevin’s Teaching Philosophy

Its important students understand the “why” behind what they learn.  When you understand the “why”, you will always know the “how”.  Finance in particular, is an area of management practice that is full of terminology. Understanding why this terminology is used will make it much more understandable when you come across it in your own management career. A qualification should be more than a piece of paper, it should be a set of skills you can use for life. Understanding finance, especially areas such as budgeting and discounted cash flow is an essential skill for any Facilities Manager.

Qualifications 

  • BBS
  • MA
  • FCA

 

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)

Dan Murphy

 Dan Murphy | Managing Director – Galway Bay Hotel | Guest Speaker to Facilities Management  Event Programs

Dan Murphy, guest speaker on our facilities management led special events & webinars , is the long-standing Managing Director of the high-profile Galway Bay Hotel. As a guest speaker on a number of our Facilities Management events, he gives wonderful industry insight and opportunity to our students.

Dan has a wealth of experience having held senior management roles in Four-star and Five-star hotels in the US and in Ireland. Throughout Dan’s early career days he gained very valuable Five-star experience in prestigious hotels such as Adare Manor and Ashford Castle. Following on from his graduation from MTU in the early ’90s Dan worked for 5 years with the Hilton Hotel group in North America working his way through the management ranks in the Chicago Hilton & Towers Hotel and the Waldorf Astoria in New York. On his return to Ireland in 1997 he took up a position of Operations Manager in the Rochestown Park Hotel in his hometown of Cork city before taking the role of General Manager in the Galway Bay Hotel in early 1999. Dan quickly settled into this hotel, making Galway city home and quickly establishing the Galway Bay Hotel as one of the leading 4-star hotels in the country. To date, Dan and his team have achieved more than 50 awards for the Galway Bay Hotel, including best Four-Star Hotel in Ireland on a number of occasions, Deloitte Best Managed Company, Best Employer in Galway this year and indeed the Irish Hospitality Institute Hotel Manager of the Year. However, Dan would say that his biggest achievements is guiding a thriving business through many crises such as 9/11, financial down turns, recessions, water crises, Covid pandemic and not only weathering the storm but ensuring a stronger and leaner business. Dan really enjoys interacting with people within our industry, learning and sharing his experiences inside and outside of the lecture theatre.

 

 

Sharon Malone

Sharon Malone | Marketing & Digital Media Manager | Guest Speaker to Facilities Management Events

Meet Sharon Malone, Environmentally focused and project managing, we are delighted to to have her as a guest Speaker to our numerous Facilities Management special events & webinars. Her wealth of industry insight is a great asset to our students.

Combining two of her passions, a love for County Clare and a strong interest in environmental sustainability, Sharon is very much at home in her role as Marketing & Digital Media Manager in The Falls Hotel & Spa in Ennis tymon.  Sharon has a degree in Marketing from Trinity College, and as the marketing environment evolved, she upskilled with a diploma in Digital Marketing.  Working for the family-owned hotel in North Clare means she can use these skills to promote the Falls Hotel and County Clare as a destination.

Sustainability is at the heart of all that The Falls Hotel does.  Sharon has headed up the Green Team in the hotel since early 2019.  One of the biggest sustainability projects they took on was to install a hydro electric turbine on the river running alongside the hotel.  A 220kilowatt hydro turbine was installed and when the river is in full flow, they get 100% of their electricity needs from the river, dramatically reduced their dependency on carbon fuels.  In March 2021, the property was certified as a carbon neutral property by GreenMark.ie, through Green Hospitality Ireland.  In a five year period, through many green initiatives, they reduced their carbon emmissions by approximately 90%.  The moment you arrive on to the 50 acre property, you are reducing your own carbon footprint!

Niamh Clonan

Niamh Clonan | Waste Management Expert | Guest Speaker to Facilities Management Events

Niamh Clonan is a Senior Account Manager at Thorntons Recycling, Ireland’s largest family-run waste company. She is responsible for managing a large account portfolio, including Government, Construction, Blue Chip and Multinational clients. We are delighted to have her as a guest speaker to numerous Facilities Management events and webinars. Her insights prove invaluable to our students.

A Graduate of the Marketing Institute of Ireland and with her extensive background in sales, account management, and waste management spanning over 20 years, Niamh brings invaluable expertise in serving diverse commercial sectors, including facility and property management.

 

How will I learn?

Delivery Mode

This programme is delivered over 1 academic year, online with interactive webinar learning affording you the opportunity to study from anywhere.

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.

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.

Expert Tutor Support

You can email your tutor at any stage during the module to ask a simple query and there will be scheduled opportunities to submit a draft of your assignment. Our programme management team are always available to meet you or offer you telephone and email support. For more information about our team, click here. 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.

One to one support

This level of one-to-one support is unique and is a particular benefit to choosing Portobello Institute. We have invested in a team of programme managers and tutors who are experienced sports therapists and clinicians as well as knowledgeable educators. They are available to assist you at every stage of this programme and support you to achieve your personal best.

Online Learning Portal – ePortobello

During the induction seminar, we will show you how to navigate and find what you need with all of the information you need to complete this programme uploaded on to ePortobello. The content of this programme is set out in an easy to follow format with a combination of notes, articles, podcasts and other materials that will help you to understand the subject and complete your assessments.

Course Structure

This is an online learning course with webinars delivered over one academic year. There are supported seminars held at weekends with an exact schedule available shortly.

You will complete seven modules, one core year long module that runs for the duration of both semesters, as well as an additional three modules each semester. The modules include your research assignment which will take place in the first semester.

SEMESTER 1

Webinars are held on scheduled Saturdays from 10am – 4pm with breaks at intervals throughout the session.

The schedule of webinars is generally a maximum of 2 per month. This is a guideline and subject to change, a full schedule is given during the induction session.

Webinar sessions are recorded should you be unable to attend.

SEMESTER 2

Webinars are held on scheduled Saturdays from 10am – 4pm with breaks at intervals throughout the session.

The schedule of webinars is generally a maximum of 2 per month. This is a guideline and subject to change, a full schedule is given during the induction session.

Webinar sessions are recorded should you be unable to attend.

A FLEXIBLE LEARNING JOURNEY

The schedule of this course is designed to offer you flexibility and support at the times you need it.

Unpredictable work hours are the norm of the FM so we record webinar sessions for you to catch up later should you be unable to attend.

You can book one to one tutor support at a time that is convenient to you including evenings and Saturdays.

Our expert tutors are available to support you throughout your learning journey, including the weeks when webinars are not scheduled.

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 implementation 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 work.

Downloads

Course Delivery Mode
Course
 Top-Up (1 yr) to BSc (Hons) Facilities & Workplace Management 		Delivery Mode
Blended Learning
 Download Brochure

Career prospects

This BSc (Hons) in Facilities & Workplace Management was developed in response to growing industry demand for graduates with a suitable range of skills and knowledge. Specialist FM expertise is not enough, FMs also need to be creative thinkers, problem solvers, deadline-driven and with a strategic mindset – this is the kind of approach we encourage and help you to develop.

Add credibility to your experience with a recognised degree

This BSc (Hons) Facilities and Workplace Management is an industry specific honours degree adding credibility to your existing qualifications, knowledge and experience, supporting you to advance your career and fulfil your potential.

Qualified FMs are in demand

Facilities Management underpins the business of all industries and qualified FM professionals are required in all sectors of global economies from airports and other infrastructure to leisure facilities, commercial organisations, consultancies, property companies, Integrated FM providers and local and national government.

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.

Understand our graduates success

Visit our Graduates Success Stories to understand the opportunities they availed of, the further studies they have undertaken and their unique learning journeys.

Related Courses

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.

Book a consultation

How do I apply?

Entry is by direct application to Portobello Institute.

Entry to Top-Up programme

You may apply for entry to the final year to “Top-Up” to a BSc (Hons) in Facilities & Workplace Management if you meet ONE of the following criteria:

  • Relevant other Level 7 degree
  • Level 5 or 6 graduates from IWFM Diploma

If you are not eligible for advanced entry to this programme, there are other entry points available – see below.

Entry to First Year

You must meet any ONE of the following criteria:

  • BIFM Level 3
  • Leaving Certificate
  • Experiential Learning in FM or related field
  • Senior trade certificate

Advanced Entry to Second Year

You may apply for advanced entry to the second year of the BSc (Hons) in Facilities & Workplace Management if you meet ONE of the following criteria:

  • Relevant other 3rdlevel qualification eg: IWFM Level 4 Diploma
  • Senior Trade Cert with significant experience and three senior endorsements – requires entry assessment via application process
Application Process

Step 1

Complete the online application form.

Step 2

Applicant’s application will be reviewed by the Portobello enrolment team.

Step 3

Applicant’s will be contacted by the Portobello enrolment team to confirm place on the course or for more information.

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 or if you are unsure where you fit, please email your cv to [email protected] for further advice or call him on 01-8920035. We can support you identify the correct entry point for you.

Applicants who do not meet the criteria, may be offered an alternative entry point to the BSc (Hons) in Facilities Management. This programme is available through Portobello Institute.

Please note places on this course are only confirmed once tuition fees have been received.

Students will be registered as an undergraduate degree student with London Metropolitan University.

Fees & Payment Options

Fees

Course Price

Year 1 base fee

€5,395

Exam Body Reg. Fee

€445.00

Overall Course Price

Total amount due

€5,840.00

Easy Payment Plan

Payment Option 1

33% deposit payment (€2,047.65), followed by 8 scheduled payments on the first of each month, commencing the 1st of the month after the start date of the course. Includes one off instalment fee of €365.

  • €519.67 due in month 1
  • €519.67 due in month 2
  • €519.67 due in month 3
  • €519.67 due in month 4
  • €519.67 due in month 5
  • €519.67 due in month 6
  • €519.67 due in month 7
  • €519.67 due in month 8
Ready to apply? View Downloads Speak to an expert

Available Courses

Course Delivery Mode Start Date Duration Fees Per Year
Course
 Top-Up (1 yr) to BSc (Hons) Facilities & Workplace Management 		Delivery Mode
Blended Learning
 Start Date
 30th September 2023 		Duration
 1 year 		Fees Per Year
 €5,840.00

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