The unit aims to provide learners with an understanding of ethical practice and how this applies to housing organisations, housing professionals, and their stakeholders and customers.

The unit aims to provide learners with an understanding of leadership and management theories and styles and their role in creating an organisational vision.

Learners will have the opportunity compare the knowledge skills and behaviours required by managers and leaders, and to reflect on their own ability to be an effective leader and manager.

The unit aims to provide learners with an understanding of the role, purpose and complexity of a housing organisation.

Learners will gain knowledge of strategic development and apply strategic planning to the development, implementation and monitoring of a business plan.

The unit aims to provide learners with an opportunity to understand the context of housing through a comparative study between their own country of study/ operation and another.

Learners will develop an understanding of policy, the law and the social, cultural, political and economic context of housing policy on their chosen topic in two countries.

The unit aims to provide learners with an understanding of how to manage partner relationships to deliver a successful housing service.

This unit aims to provide an understanding of how to provide housing services that are inclusive and meet the diverse and changing needs of housing customers. It covers the importance of data gathering and resident involvement as well as effective communication methods.

This unit aims to provide the opportunity to reflect on what professionalism means in a housing context, the learner will analyse their own professional practice against professional standards.

It also examines the importance of exercising professional judgement, using a reflective practice model and continuing professional development, along with an opportunity to create a professional development plan.

CIH does not set entry requirements. Our CIH approved study centres may establish their own criteria to ensure learners' suitability for the qualification. 

It may be beneficial to have at least one of the following:

• Experience of working in housing or a housing-related industry, preferably at a strategic or management level
• Achieved a level 4 qualification previously
• Completed a management qualification
• Completed a housing qualification such as the CIH level 4 Certificate in Housing or a qualification from a related sector.

For further information on entry requirements, please contact your chosen study centre directly.

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• The average total qualification time (TQT) is 380 hours
• The average guided learning hours (GLH) are 79.

Please note that these figures may vary between learners and centres.

Qualification fees can vary depending on where, how and with which centre you choose to study.

For further information on fees, please contact your CIH approved study centre directly.

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The qualification is assessed by CIH approved study centres. Centres can use a variety of methods, including tasks, portfolios, assignments, and professional discussions.

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The qualification aims to support progression into strategic and executive housing roles such as:

• Housing services manager
• Housing director
• Head of housing services
• Director of housing
• Executive director of housing operations.

You may wish to progress onto further learning on a CIH validated undergraduate qualification.

As a learner you may be eligible to gain access to CIH membership at a concessionary rate.

On completion of the qualification you are eligible for chartered membership (CIHCM). Chartered status is a demonstration of an individual’s housing expertise, commitment and ethical standards.