🏡Context and Background
The European Housing Studies (EHS) course was established to enhance qualifications and education standards within the housing sector across Europe. It is supported by three prominent European public universities and developed by established housing experts, with backing from the European Commission. This initiative aims to professionalize the housing sector, addressing critical issues within contemporary housing policies.
🎓Target Audience
The EHS course is tailored for a diverse range of professionals involved in the housing sector, including real estate agents, housing managers, policymakers, third sector NGOs, and consumers. Participants will acquire specific skills to tackle recurring issues and contentious problems prevalent in European housing policies. Furthermore, the course is also beneficial for postgraduate students from various disciplines—such as law, sociology, social work, economics, finance, anthropology, architecture, urban design, and engineering—who have only briefly covered housing topics in their degrees. This specialized training aims to prepare them for careers in the housing sector.
📚Course Structure and Content
The EHS is structured as a self-study course, accessible for free. However, participants must pass a final examination and pay a fee to receive an official university title in European Housing Studies. Additionally, there is an option for a one-week training session that provides updates and face-to-face training with leading European experts, with dates announced in advance.
The course comprises nine parts and includes a variety of training materials, such as a course book, diagrams, dynamic presentations, a role card game, and a blockchain simulator designed for property transactions. These resources are intended to provide participants with a comprehensive understanding of the complexities of the housing sector.
✍️Authors and Creators
The course is developed by notable academic institutions, including the UNESCO Housing Chair at the University Rovira i Virgili, the CHLRP at the University of Galway, and the University of Silesia. These organizations contribute their expertise and research to ensure that the EHS course meets the highest educational standards and provides relevant, up-to-date knowledge in the field of housing studies.
🌍Conclusion
As Europe faces ongoing challenges in the housing sector, the EHS course represents a significant step towards achieving higher standards of professionalization and education. By equipping professionals and students with the necessary skills and knowledge, the program supports the development of sustainable housing solutions and effective policies across the continent.