Qualifications
HLA Property, Housing and Planning
Overview
Subject to funding
The Higher Level Apprenticeship (HLA) in Property, Housing and Planning responds to strong demand
across the real estate, housing, construction, building surveying and planning sectors.
Northern Ireland’s Skills Barometer (2023–2033) highlights a significant annual undersupply of skilled
professionals, particularly within construction, land, and property-related disciplines. The programme
supports regional economic priorities through the development of applied skills in planning policy,
valuation, housing studies, sustainability, property law, and digital surveying.
The programme is delivered one day per week in college during Years 1 and 2. Year 3 includes a blend of
on-campus delivery and Work-Based Learning. Teaching methods include lectures, seminars, workshops,
self-directed study, and weekly tutorials. Apprentices receive one-to-one mentoring throughout the programme.
Applicants must satisfy the Ulster University General Entrance Requirements as specified in the University General Regulations and at least one of the following:
1.A minimum of three passes at GCSE Grade C or 4 and above, which must include Mathematics and English Language (approved equivalents can be found at www.ulster.ac.uk/study/entrance-requirements and either:
A. minimum tariff of 64 UCAS points at GCE A Level, or 56 UCAS points with grade D in Geography or Business Studies.; or
B. Pearson BTEC National Extended Diploma, OCR National or Cambridge Technical in Construction, Engineering, or Business with a minimum grade of Merit Pass Pass (MPP); or
C. A minimum tariff of 64 UCAS points with a combination of A Level and/or BTEC Level 3 qualifications, or 56 UCAS points with Geography or Business Studies.
2.Irish Leaving Certificate: a minimum tariff of 64 UCAS points with four subjects at Higher Level, or 56 UCAS including one subject at H3 from Geography or Business Studies. Must include English and Maths at minimum grade H6 or O4.
3. Scottish Highers: a minimum tariff of 64 UCAS points or 56 UCAS points to include one from Geography or Business Studies: a minimum tariff of 64 UCAS points or 56 UCAS points to include one from Geography or Business Studies. Must include GCSE Maths and English at grade C or 4 and above.
4. Access Course: A minimum 45% in approved Access to HE Diploma course, with relevant subject area.
5. Evidence of an ability to undertake the programme through the accreditation of prior experiential learning which must be submitted in accordance with the College Policy Accreditation of Prior Learning (APL) Higher Education Process available on the college website.
Students presenting with international qualifications must also refer to Entry Requirements for International Students | Ulster University Global for entry requirements.
Fees are payable annually.
DfE funded apprentices pay no fees. International students and non-DfE funded students will be subject to part-time fees as per the college policy - please contact 02890 265475 for more information.
Apprentices are assessed through coursework, written examinations, practical project work, group
assessments, and digital submissions. WorkBased Learning assessments include a significant
employer-focused project, supported by College and Workplace Mentors.
Careers
Successful apprentices may progress to Year 2 of Ulster University programmes including: BSc (Hons)
Real Estate and MSci Planning, Regeneration and Development. Part-time degree pathways allow
continued employment alongside study.
Interests
Real Estate
Planning
Property Development
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