De Montfort University (DMU) in Leicester is celebrating the
launch of new housing courses, including a Foundation Degree in
Sustainable Communities. DMU is the only university recognised by
the Homes and Communities Agency to deliver this course in the East
Midlands.
The Foundation Degree course starts in September 2010 and is
studied over three years part-time. It offers career development
opportunities for people who are working or intend to work in the
public, private and voluntary sectors, with a particular interest
in sustainable communities. The course is relevant to a range of
careers in housing, planning, regeneration, economic development
and the environment.
DMU is one of just eight institutions in the country to offer
the Foundation Degree in Sustainable Communities. The course covers
a broad range of topical issues including regeneration, community
safety, local economies and worklessness, sustainable design,
governance and community engagement.
The course also emphasises the values and practical skills
necessary for success in delivering regeneration and sustainable
communities. Those who complete the Foundation Degree can go on to
study for a BSc Housing Studies, BA Government and Economics or BA
Politics and Government.
DMU is also launching a Professional Diploma in Sustainable
Communities and University Certificate Professional Development in
Housing Studies developed by the Chartered Institute of Housing
(CIH) and the University to meet changes in the wider housing and
sustainable communities sector.
The housing and sustainable communities courses are delivered by
the Centre for Comparative Housing Research (CCHR) at DMU's
Leicester Business School, and offer a balanced mix of theory and
practical skill development.