Successful Diploma students from the University of Glasgow's Housing Studies Programme were presented with their certificates and prizes today (Friday 27 October) in the Senate Room, Gilbert Scott Building.

Professor Noreen Burrows, Dean of the Faculty of Law Business and Social Sciences, who made the presentations, said: "The course equips students with the skills and knowledge required for a career in social housing, which is a difficult and demanding field. I am delighted that the University continues to make a contribution to higher standards in Scotland's housing through the Housing Studies Programme."

Two outstanding Housing Studies students won prizes: Kirsty Gibbons was presented with the W A Gordon Muir Memorial Prize while Heather Morrison won the Chartered Institute of Housing Prize.

The Programme Director, Dr Jenny Muir, said: "The vast majority of our students study over two years on day release from their employers. Some complete the course full-time in one year. In either case, it is a demanding programme of study and students are to be congratulated for their achievements today."

The University of Glasgow's Housing Studies Diploma and MSc is taught by the Department of Urban Studies. The Programme has been running since 1982 and over 700 students have graduated from the courses which cover the academic requirement for membership of the Chartered Institute of Housing. The course focuses on the skills required for social housing management and prepares staff for employment at senior levels.

Martin Shannon (m.shannon@admin.gla.ac.uk)

Further information: Fiona Wilson, Department of Urban Studies 0141 330 5493

First published: 27 October 2006