Are you considering a career in Facilities or Workplace Management? At Portobello Institute, we offer a variety of programmes that cater to different experience levels and career goals.
My name is Janice O'Toole and I am the Admissions Advisor here for Facilities Management. I’ve compiled some of the most frequently asked questions from prospective students, to help you decide which course is right for you.
How quickly can I gain a qualification?
The time it takes to gain a qualification depends on your level of experience and the qualification you're pursuing. For instance, our IWFM Level 4 Certificate can be completed in as little as five months.
If you're looking for a more advanced option, the IWFM Level 5 Diploma takes about eight months to complete. This diploma also offers advanced entry into Year 3 of our BSc (Hons) Degree in Facilities and Workplace Management, meaning you could earn a degree in just one academic year!
We run several intakes throughout the year, with the main start dates in February and October. However, there are usually two or three additional start dates between these periods, so it's never too early or too late to inquire about your options.
How often are the lectures and what is the weekly time commitment?
Most of our facilities management courses feature one lecture day every two weeks, typically scheduled over the weekend or a midweek evening to accommodate working professionals. These lectures are conducted via live webinars, which are recorded so you can revisit them if you're unable to attend the live session.
In terms of time commitment, expect to dedicate around 12-16 hours per week for reading, research, and assessments, though this may vary slightly depending on the course you're enrolled in.
Will I need to attend the college in person at any stage?
No, there are no mandatory onsite days for our Facilities Management courses. While you are invited to attend an induction day in person, it is not required. All learning takes place online, giving you the flexibility to study from anywhere.
Is there a minimum attendance requirement for lectures?
There is no minimum attendance requirement for our live webinars. However, we highly encourage you to attend as many sessions as possible to benefit from real-time interaction with your tutors and fellow students. Engaging in live lectures will provide you with the opportunity to ask questions and receive immediate feedback.
Can I complete this course alongside my busy work and home life?
Absolutely! Our Facilities Management programmes are designed with flexibility in mind. They are delivered entirely online, with webinar-based learning that you can access from anywhere. The schedules are tailored to accommodate professionals with demanding jobs and family commitments. Plus, if your work hours are unpredictable, the recorded webinar sessions allow you to catch up at your own convenience.
This level of support and flexibility means that you can work full-time and manage family life while completing your course.
Which course would suit me best?
Here's a quick guide to help you choose the right course:
- IWFM Level 4 Certificate: Ideal if you have been working in facilities management for some time and you're managing day-to-day operations in-house or outsourced, or if you're aspiring to move into such a role within the Facilities Management profession.
- IWFM Level 5 Diploma: Best suited for specialist facilities managers working at middle or senior management level, or those responsible for specialised, complex functions. It’s also great if you aspire to move into these positions.
- BSc (Hons) in Facilities and Workplace Management: Aimed at those already working in the facilities or workplace management sector, or those in support services looking to develop their skills to degree level and advance their careers.
- MSc in Facilities Management: This programme builds upon your undergraduate studies or workplace experience and aims to develop critical and practical skills in operational management, particularly for a competitive global market.
Our IWFM programmes can be the perfect first step on your pathway to the BSc in Facilities management with advanced entry opportunities upon completion of these programmes.
If none of these programmes feel like the right fit, we also offer shorter courses that focus on specific areas, such as Postgraduate Certificates (PGCs) for those seeking targeted qualifications.
We hope this overview gives you a better understanding of our Facilities Management programmes and helps you find the right path for your career. If you have any further questions, feel free to reach out. We’re here to guide you every step of the way!
Check out our courses and next intakes on our Facilities Management page!
