Portobello Institute Knowledge Zone

MBE Skillnet Funded Places Available on the BSc (Hons) in Workplace & Facilities Management

Written by Jenny Smith | 06 February, 2026

Portobello Institute is pleased to offer a limited number of MBE Skillnet–funded places on the BSc (Hons) in Workplace & Facilities Management, commencing on 19th February 2026.

This opportunity is available to professionals living in Ireland and working in the private sector who wish to gain a recognised honours degree while continuing to build their career in facilities and workplace management.

As a long-established provider of Facilities Management education, Portobello Institute continues to work closely with industry and national partners to support the professional development of the sector.

Supporting Upskilling Through MBE Skillnet

MBE Skillnet supports Irish businesses by investing in upskilling and professional development across a wide range of sectors. Through partnerships with education providers such as Portobello Institute, Skillnet funding helps make high-quality, industry-aligned programmes more accessible to working professionals.

For eligible learners, this funding provides valuable support towards undertaking an honours degree that is directly relevant to the evolving demands of workplace and facilities management.

About the BSc (Hons) in Workplace & Facilities Management

The role of facilities and workplace management has expanded significantly in recent years, with increased responsibility for compliance, sustainability, employee experience and strategic decision-making.

The BSc (Hons) in Workplace & Facilities Management is designed to reflect this evolution, providing learners with the knowledge, skills and professional insight required to operate effectively in modern, complex environments.

The programme covers key areas including workplace and facilities operations, health and safety management, regulatory compliance, asset and service management, sustainability, leadership and professional practice.

The degree can be completed over two years on a part-time basis, or as a one-year top-up for learners who already hold a relevant Level 7 or Level 8 qualification.

Designed for Working Professionals

This programme is delivered part-time and online, making it particularly well suited to professionals who are working full time.

Learners benefit from a flexible structure that allows them to balance study with professional and personal commitments, without the need for travel. Course content is closely aligned to real-world practice, enabling students to apply learning directly within their current role and organisation.

For many learners, the programme provides an opportunity to formalise existing experience, strengthen professional credibility and support progression into more senior or strategic roles within facilities and workplace management.

Who Can Apply for Funded Places

MBE Skillnet funding is available to learners who reside in Ireland, are employed in the private sector and meet the academic entry requirements for the programme.

Funded places are limited and allocated on a first-come, first-served basis.

A Leader in Facilities Management Education

As a leading provider of Facilities Management qualifications in Ireland for over a decade, Portobello Institute offers clear progression pathways from early-career qualifications through to honours degrees and postgraduate study.

Facilities Management programmes at Portobello Institute are designed in collaboration with industry and delivered by experienced practitioners and academics, ensuring graduates are equipped with the operational, leadership and people-focused skills required in today’s built environment.

At all stages of career development — from starting out to progressing into senior leadership — Portobello Institute supports professionals in developing the confidence, capability and qualifications needed to succeed.

Find Out More

If you are interested in applying for a funded place on the BSc (Hons) in Workplace & Facilities Management, we recommend speaking directly with our Facilities Management team to discuss your background, eligibility and the programme in more detail.

Guidance is available from  Niall Downey, Facilities Management Career Consultant.

You can book a consultation with Niall, email niall.downey@portobelloinstitute.com or call 01 892 0043.

Rather than navigating funding processes alone, we recommend booking a call to discuss:

  • Your eligibility
  • The course structure and outcomes
  • How the MBE Skillnet funding works in practice

This ensures a smooth and straightforward application experience.

With limited funded places available and the February 2026 intake approaching, early enquiry is advised. 

We would be delighted to welcome you onto the programme and support you in taking the next step in your professional journey.