The recognition from the independent body for professional standards comes as the course – which was the first of its kind in the UK – celebrates its 40th anniversary.

The reaccreditation underlines the ongoing strength and quality of the housing education programme offered by Stirling’s Faculty of Social Sciences.

Making their award, without any conditions, the CIH panel commended the course for: its very clear sense of care and compassion for students, which contributes to an excellent pastoral care programme; its team demonstrating strong professional ethics and commitment to the housing sector; and the world-class research undertaken within the team and faculty.

Dr Kim McKee, senior lecturer and head of housing, said: “At Stirling, we’re proud to have always been at the forefront of delivering high-quality housing education. We continue to innovate and apply the latest technologies while maintaining our vitally important links with the housing sector and latest practice.

“This ensures our graduates leave with the skills and knowledge required of housing professionals and are equipped to make decisions in very challenging situations. This will never be truer than in the current context and longer-term impact of COVID-19.”

The CIH accreditation process also involved recent graduates providing feedback to the panel. Both the panel and students confirmed the strength of the course’s blended learning approach and the online learning platform used by the University. One recent graduate said: “Distance learning is no object to creating lasting and supporting relationships.”

Stirling’s professionally orientated Masters (MSc) or Postgraduate Diploma (PG Dip) in Housing Studies, designed for both newcomers and those with experience in the field, offers a unique combination of academic study and evidence-led learning and teaching.

Previous students on the course have worked across a variety of professions and disciplines across the housing sector. It is not a prerequisite that applicants have an undergraduate qualification, as those with relevant experience through either paid or voluntary means are encouraged to apply.

Duncan Sim, former director of Stirling’s Housing Studies programme, added: “I taught at Stirling for 21 years, and I believed then, as I do now, that it has always been a leader in housing education in the UK. I’m delighted to hear the current team is continuing to build on that reputation with the successful reaccreditation by the Chartered Institute of Housing.”