BHASL003C19: Advanced Diploma in Illumination Engineering & Lighting Design e-Learning Course  

Course Fee: US$1500.00

• 3 months: US$520.00 (Total US$1560.00)
• 6 months: US$270.00 (Total US$1620.00)
• 12 months: US$140.00 (Total US$1680.00)
• 24 months: US$75.00 (Total US$1800.00)

About: BHA School of Lighting’s Advanced Diploma in Illumination Engineering & Lighting Design course is regarded by build environment professionals as the premier e-learning lighting course in the world. The curriculum meets international standards and covers all aspects of illumination engineering including the history of lighting, light sources, lighting controls & systems, standards & compliance, interior & exterior lighting applications, lighting in the fourth industrial revolution, human-centric lighting, lighting design software and more. Scroll down for full course curriculum.

Academic Accreditation & Lighting Industry Recognition: BHA School of Lighting is an accredited online education provider and has satisfactorily met all the educational standards set by the European Association for Higher Education Advancement (EAHEA) regarding administrative responsibility, institutional integrity, and academic quality. The EAHEA is a non-governmental, independent, and globally recognised quality assurance body based in Europe. It provides international accreditation to universities, colleges, institutions, online learning centres, and corporations across more than 170 countries. For more EAHEA accreditation information click HERE. Additionally, BHA School of Lighting is recognised as an education provider by the International Association of Lighting Designers (IALD) Education Trust through its Learn2Light project.

COURSE INFORMATION

Qualification:  Advanced Diploma in Illumination Engineering & Lighting Design

Language: English

Duration: 24 Months e-Learning (Flexible start date, you decide when to begin your learning journey!)

CPD Credits: Students who are registered with SAIA, SAIAT & CESA may apply for CPD credits for part-time study.

Entry Criteria: Minimum National Senior Certificate (NSC) or High School Diploma/Matriculation Pass or international equivalent (Mathematics & Physical Science is advantageous, however not essential)

How to apply: Click the “ENROL NOW – APPLY HERE” button and complete the application form. Thereafter, a payment link and bank account details will be sent to you via email to process payment. Once payment has been received, your student account will be setup and you can immediately start your e-learning experience.

Additional Terms & Conditions: All course fees are non-refundable & if students overrun their 2 year study period to complete the course material, assignments & final exams, the cost per additional month of study is US$90.00.

VALUE ADD-ONS

Autodesk Product Value Add-Ons: As part of our commitment to professional readiness, BHA School of Lighting provides enrolled students with free access to two Autodesk software packages – AutoCAD (valued at USD2095 per year) and Revit (valued at USD3005 per year), which are two of the most widely used design tools in the architecture & engineering industries. This represents a total software value of $5100 USD per student.

Relux Desktop Third Party License Value Add-On: As part of our commitment to equipping students with practical skills in lighting design software, we are proud to partner with Relux. Through this collaboration, all students enrolled in this course will receive a Relux Third Party Licence for the full duration of their enrolment, valued at approximately $84 USD per student.

Join a Professional Lighting Institution: BHA School of Lighting is proud to be affiliated with the the International Association of Lighting Designers, the Institute of Lighting Professionals (UK), the Virtual Lighting Design Community , The Lighting Police, Women in Lighting and the Illumination Engineering Society of South Africa. All students who enrol for this course can apply for student membership at local & international professional lighting institutions & communities. By becoming a member you will gain access to network opportunities, workshops & more. More info about how you can join can be found here.

COURSE CURRICULUM

First Year – Learning Modules 1 to 18 (12 month learning period)

Module 1: An Introduction to Light

An introduction to the World of Light and Lighting – Unlock the secrets and learn about the nature of Light! Where your learning journey begins!

Ever wondered what light really is? How it behaves? How it influences everything from colour perception to technology?

In this module, students will discover the fascinating fundamentals:

• The science of radiation & the visible spectrum
• How light is produced, analyzed, & dispersed through a prism spectroscope
• Spectral energy distribution diagrams – what different light sources reveal
• The colour of light & how it’s shaped by polarization
• Practical applications of polarized light in technology & daily life

Module 2: How Light is Produced

Discover the science behind light production and enjoy this deep dive into the fascinating world of how light is created, both naturally and artificially.

From the glow of a firefly to the brilliance of a tungsten filament, this module explores:

• Thermal Radiation and Black Body Theory
• Electric Discharge and Arc Conduction
• Bioluminescence, Phosphorescence, and Fluorescence
• Chemiluminescence and Photoluminescence
• Quantum theory, Planck’s Law, and more!

Module 3: Control of Light

Explore the physics of light control. This learning module reveals how light behaves when it meets different materials, and how we can shape that behaviour. Whether you’re designing luminaires, planning architectural lighting, or simply curious about how light bends, bounces, and passes through the world, this module is your gateway to mastering the science of light behaviour.

From glass prisms to polished surfaces, this module covers:

• Absorption, transmission, and reflection
• Refraction, critical angle, and total internal reflection
• Light through parallel sided blocks and prisms
• How materials influence the path and properties of light

Module 4: The Science of Colour – From Spectrum to Specification

Explore the science of colour in lighting. This module will reveal how colour shapes the way we perceive and design with light. Whether you’re designing lighting systems, specifying luminaires, or simply fascinated by how colour transforms space, this module is your key to mastering the science behind colour in lighting.

From the physics of light to the precision of colour rendering, students will dive into:

• Colour rendering & correlated colour temperature
• Chromaticity & colour characterisation
• Physical characteristics of light
• Electromagnetic & visible spectrum
• Spectral Power Distribution Curve (SPD) & Spectral Reflectance Distribution (SRD)
• Additive & subtractive colour mixing methods
• Colour rendering of light sources

Module 5: Light, the Eye and the Phenomenon of Vision

Discover how light shapes vision when you study about light, the eye & the phenomenon of vision. This module explores the intricate relationship between light and human vision. Whether you’re designing for visual comfort, studying human perception, or refining lighting systems for optimal performance, this module offers essential knowledge for understanding how we see and perceive the world around us.

Students will gain insight into:

• Structure of the eye & defects of vision
• Accommodation, fixation & contrast
• Sensitivity & the visibility curve
• Purkinje effect & adaptation
• Persistence of vision & glare
• Visual acuity, fatigue & speed of vision

Module 6: Fundamental Concepts of Photometry: Lighting Units, Photometric Definitions and Laws

Master the science behind light measurement and photometry in this learning module which dives into the essential principles that define how light is quantified and applied in design. By the end of the learning module you will understand the core principles of photometry and the building blocks of lighting science.

Students will learn about:

• Photometric concepts, definitions and units
• Lighting units & their relationships
• Photometric laws, terminologies & primary standards of light
• Classification of intensity distribution
• Polar curves & iso-candela diagrams
• Light flux calculations

Module 7: Manual Lighting Calculations: Mastering the Lumen and Point Methods

What if one day your lighting design software or AI companion stopped working? Would you still have the ability to design compliant lighting for any space?

Module 7 teaches you how to calculate illuminance manually and provides a clear understanding of how lighting design software performs its calculations behind the scenes. This module will provide you with the core skills that define an exceptional lighting designer because when you understand the fundamentals, you design with confidence, precision and real professional insight.

Learning Outcomes – By the end of this module, you will be able to:

• Identify point, line and surface light sources
• Understand CU tables, light loss & maintenance factors, and other key elements needed to perform complete lighting calculations
• Use the Lumen Method to calculate average illuminance
• Use the Point Method to calculate illuminance at exact locations
• Select the correct calculation method for different design tasks
• Compare your results with lighting standards
• Understand how lighting design software produces its results and when manual methods are required

Module 8: Photometry: The Integrating Sphere, the Goniophotometer, Portable Photometric Instruments and Luminaire Testing Methods

Step into the world of precision light measurement. This learning module introduces you to the essential laboratory instruments and testing procedures that define modern applied photometry. From understanding total luminous flux to mapping luminous intensity distributions with a goniophotometer, this module reveals the science behind the photometric data used across the lighting industry.

Students will discover and learn about:

• The integrating sphere and total flux measurement
• Goniophotometer principles and luminous intensity distribution
• Portable photometric instruments including modern spectral irradiance colourimeters
• Calibration standards and reference lamps
• Luminaire testing methods using absolute and relative photometry
• Photometric file formats such as IES and Eulumdat

Module 9: Incandescent Light Sources: History, Development and Working Principles

Step into the origins of electric light. Although incandescent lamps have been banned or withdrawn from general use in many countries due to energy efficiency legislation, this learning module explains why they remain a cornerstone of lighting education. The incandescent lamp is the foundation upon which all modern light sources were developed, and its physics, materials and construction principles continue to inform every area of illumination engineering.

Module 10: Fluorescent and Discharge Light Sources: History, Development and Working Principles

This module is now obsolete as many of these light sources have been banned from production and thus has been removed from the course curriculum. It is however, still recommended to work through the learning module to gain valuable knowledge about these light sources.

Module 11: Daylight in Lighting Design: Principles, Applications and System Integration

Daylight is the oldest and most abundant light source on our planet, yet it remains one of the most underestimated and frequently overlooked elements in lighting design. This learning module reveals why daylighting is fundamental to the practice of illumination engineering and why the intelligent use of natural light is central to energy efficiency, wellbeing and visual comfort in buildings.

Module 12 : LED Light Sources: History, Development and Working Principles

LEDs have transformed the global lighting industry and continue to define the present and future of illumination engineering. This module explains why LEDs are now the most significant light source of the modern era, offering unprecedented levels of efficiency, longevity, performance and design flexibility. Far more than a light emitting component, the LED is a complete technology platform built on semiconductor science, advanced materials, thermal management and optical engineering.

This module guides students through the remarkable scientific and technological evolution that led from the early semiconductor discoveries of the twentieth century to the high performance LED systems that illuminate everything from homes and workplaces to international sports arenas and high mast installations. Students gain insight into the engineering principles that enable LEDs to outperform virtually all legacy light sources under real world conditions.

Students will discover the LED in great detail:

• The scientific origins of LED technology and the pioneering researchers who defined its development
• Semiconductor physics including PN junction behaviour and how electrons and holes create visible light
• How LED colour is determined by semiconductor material composition and how white light is produced using phosphor conversion or colour mixing
• The characteristics that make LEDs ideal for general illumination including efficacy, compact size and exceptional controllability
• The methods for generating white light and the advantages and disadvantages of mixed colour and phosphor converted LEDs
• The development of high output LED packages and the performance advancements that now rival or exceed discharge lamps
• The structure of a complete LED lighting system including the chipset, driver, optics and luminaire body
• Electrical behaviour of LEDs including polarity, forward voltage, current characteristics and the need for precise current regulation
• Dimming methods including constant current reduction and pulse width modulation and how each affects colour and performance
• Thermal behaviour of LEDs, junction temperature relationships and the critical role of heat management
• Heat sink design principles including materials, surface area, airflow and thermal transfer
• LED beam angles, optical control and how optics influence distribution, intensity and application suitability
• LED life expectancy, lumen maintenance, L70 criteria and long term performance factors
• Colour variation, binning, consistency challenges and how manufacturers maintain stable light output over time
• Critical factors affecting LED performance including driver quality, thermal design, current stability and environmental conditions
• COB (chip on board) LED technology, advantages, limitations and application considerations
• International testing standards including LM 79, LM 80, TM 21, LM 82 and the IEC compliance framework for safety and performance
• Interpretation of sample photometric and spectrocolourimeter test reports for informed product evaluation
• A detailed understanding of LED warranties including hidden conditions and how to protect clients’ interests
• Guidance for specifying LED products in tender documents to ensure compliance, safety and long term performance

First Year Special Assignment

Module 13: Lighting Materials, Luminaire Classifications and Lighting Control Fundamentals

Step into the material reality of light in Lighting Materials, Luminaire Classifications and Lighting Control Fundamentals and discover how surfaces, luminaires and control systems work together to shape visual quality, energy performance and the experience of space. This module reveals why understanding materials and luminaire behaviour is essential to professional lighting design practice.

Students will learn about:

• How light interacts with materials, including absorption, reflection, refraction and surface texture, and how these properties influence visual perception and spatial character
• Lighting materials and finishes commonly used in the built environment, and how lighting methods such as grazing, washing, accent and ambient lighting affect their appearance
• Luminaire classifications and typologies, covering interior and exterior luminaires, light distribution patterns, mounting methods and application based selection
• Luminaire construction and performance, including optical components, glare control, efficiency, light output ratios and practical selection considerations
• Lighting control fundamentals, including analogue and digital control systems, dimming, daylight integration, occupancy sensing and time based control strategies
• Energy conscious lighting control approaches such as daylight harvesting, illuminance maintenance, task tuning and demand management to support efficiency and visual comfort

Module 14: Lighting Standards, Regulations and Compliance

Step into the essential world of professional responsibility in Lighting Standards, Regulations and Compliance fundamentals and discover why every lighting design must be grounded in recognised standards, legal frameworks and verified performance criteria.

This module may feel demanding at first, but it is one of the most important in your journey. As you progress, you will begin to appreciate how standards shape safe, functional and legally compliant lighting solutions, and why every illumination engineer must understand, interpret and apply them with confidence. You will learn that standards are not simply guidelines. They form the basis on which lighting designs are approved, installed, commissioned and ultimately signed off, placing real responsibility and accountability on the designer.

Students will learn about the following standards and regulations:

• International lighting standards and their application, including EN 12464-1 and EN 12464-2 for indoor and outdoor workplaces, EN 13201 for road lighting and IS 3217 for emergency lighting
• Key global and regional frameworks, such as BS 5489 for road lighting design and how different countries adapt international standards into local codes and practices
• Workplace lighting requirements, including illuminance levels, uniformity, glare control, colour rendering and visual comfort criteria that underpin compliant lighting design
• Road and public lighting standards, covering lighting classes, adaptive lighting strategies and performance criteria for safe and energy conscious outdoor environments
• Legal and regulatory compliance, including the Occupational Health and Safety Act and Environmental Regulations for workplaces, and how these affect your responsibilities as a lighting designer
• Building regulations and energy standards, including SANS 204, SANS 10400 and their role in determining lighting performance, energy efficiency and documentation requirements
• Advanced technical frameworks, including IES TM-24-13 and how spectral power distribution influences visual performance, efficiency and lighting design decisions
• Non-visual effects of light, based on CIE guidance, and how lighting impacts human health, alertness and overall wellbeing beyond vision
• Emergency lighting design and compliance, including escape route lighting, anti-panic lighting, high-risk task areas and the critical standards governing life safety systems
• Inspection, testing and certification requirements, including documentation, commissioning and compliance verification required for professional sign-off

Module 15: Interior Lighting Applications and Design Practice

Step into the structured world of Interior Lighting Applications and Design Practice, where design frameworks, technical principles and standards are applied to real lighting scenarios across a wide range of interior environments.

This module builds on everything you have learned so far and shows you how lighting design is approached in professional contexts. While the content is grounded in theory, it introduces the processes, methodologies and considerations required to develop well reasoned, compliant and effective lighting solutions.

This is a detailed and comprehensive module and you will fully understand each step in the design process:

• The structured lighting design process, including task analysis, project definition, design criteria, planning, calculations and verification
• Lighting quality and visual performance, including luminance distribution, modelling, contrast, spatial design strategies and the relationship between task and ambient lighting
• Glare and visual comfort, covering discomfort and disability glare, UGR and VCP metrics, and practical approaches to glare control through luminaire selection and positioning
• Lighting for visual display screens, including glare management, screen luminance, blue light considerations and ergonomic lighting design principles
• Commercial and office lighting applications, including task based lighting, daylight integration, user comfort, energy efficiency and the careful avoidance of over illumination
• Industrial and warehouse lighting, focusing on safety, task visibility, flicker and stroboscopic effects, glare control and large scale lighting strategies
• Lighting for education environments, including the role of lighting in concentration, performance and wellbeing
• Healthcare and specialised environments, exploring how lighting supports visual, emotional and biological needs in different contexts
• Specialised interior applications, including museums, galleries, domestic spaces and hazardous environments, each with unique technical and design requirements
• Integration with controls and technology, including daylight harvesting, occupancy sensing and coordinated lighting systems

Module 16: Exterior Lighting Applications and Design Practice

Exterior lighting is one of the most complex and demanding areas of illumination engineering, where design must balance safety, performance, aesthetics and environmental responsibility. This learning module explores the wide range of exterior lighting applications, from street and sport lighting to landscape, security and water feature lighting, highlighting the technical and practical challenges involved.

This module guides you through the principles, standards and design practices that underpin successful outdoor lighting. It examines how lighting must respond to different environments, user needs and visual tasks, while addressing critical factors such as glare control, uniformity, energy efficiency and compliance.

Students will gain knowledge about:

• Street lighting design, standards and classification systems for roads, pedestrian areas and conflict zones
• Sport field lighting principles, including modelling, uniformity and requirements for different levels of play
• Outdoor safety and security lighting, with a focus on risk assessment, visibility and liability considerations
• Landscape lighting design techniques that combine functionality with artistic expression
• Water feature lighting, including the technical challenges of working with reflections, refraction and underwater environments
• Luminaire selection, layout strategies and practical design considerations across a range of outdoor applications

Module 17: Over-Illumination: Impacts, Risks and Design Solutions

Over-illumination is one of the most common yet least questioned problems in modern lighting design. This learning module examines how excessive lighting levels, often applied without purpose or understanding, can reduce visual comfort, waste energy and negatively impact human health.

This module guides you through the causes, consequences and practical realities of over illumination, from poorly considered design practices to the misuse of technology and standards. It explores how lighting that exceeds actual task requirements can create glare, discomfort, stress and inefficiency, while also increasing operational costs and environmental impact.

Students will gain insight into:

• The definition of over illumination and how it relates to activity, task and visual requirements
• Typical causes of excessive lighting levels in offices, retail spaces and other environments
• The impact of over illumination on human health, including stress, fatigue and circadian disruption
• The economic and energy implications of inefficient lighting design
• Practical strategies and modern approaches to reduce over-illumination through better design, controls and technology

Module 18: Light Pollution: Causes, Impacts and Design Solutions

Light pollution is one of the most overlooked yet far reaching environmental challenges of modern lighting design. This learning module explores how excessive, misdirected and unnecessary artificial light alters the natural night environment, affecting human health, ecosystems and our ability to experience the night sky.

This module guides you through the causes, types and global impact of light pollution, while introducing the principles and design strategies needed to reduce it. From understanding skyglow, glare and light trespass to improving luminaires and lighting schemes, it provides a practical and technical foundation for creating responsible outdoor lighting solutions.

Students will learn about:

• The definition, sources and global scale of light pollution
• Key types of light pollution including skyglow, glare, clutter, over illumination and light trespass
• Environmental, health and ecological impacts of artificial light at night
• Energy waste and inefficiencies associated with poor lighting design
• Luminaire design, shielding and cutoff classifications to control light distribution
• Practical methods to reduce light pollution through better design, controls and light source selection

AT THE END OF THE FIRST YEAR, IN THE TWELFTH MONTH OF THE STUDY YEAR OF THE INDIVIDUAL STUDENT, BOTH THEORETICAL AND PRACTICAL EXAMINATIONS ARE WRITTEN. THE DURATION OF EACH OF THE TWO THEORETICAL EXAMINATIONS, IS 5 HOURS EACH. THE DURATION OF THE PRACTICAL EXAMINATION IS 5 HOURS.

Second Year – Learning Modules 19 – 29 (12 month learning period)

Module 19: Lighting in the Fourth Industrial Revolution

The Fourth Industrial Revolution is transforming the way we live, work and interact with technology, and lighting sits at the centre of this shift. This learning module explores how rapid advances in digital, physical and biological technologies are reshaping the lighting industry, from intelligent control systems to human centric and connected lighting environments.

This module takes you on a journey through the evolution of the Industrial Revolutions to build a clear understanding of how we arrived at today’s technology driven world. It then focuses on the Fourth Industrial Revolution and its direct relevance to modern lighting, highlighting how innovation, data and connectivity are redefining lighting design, performance and value.

You will explore how emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence, the Internet of Things and smart systems integrate with lighting, and how these developments influence both technical design and user experience. The module also introduces the challenges and risks associated with rapid technological change, including automation, inequality and security, encouraging critical thinking about the future of the profession.

Students will gain insight into:

• The progression from the First Industrial Revolution to the Fourth, and what defines each era
• Key technologies driving the Fourth Industrial Revolution, including AI, IoT, smart devices and big data
• The integration of digital, physical and biological systems in modern lighting applications
• Smart lighting systems, connected infrastructure and their role in smart cities
• Human centric lighting and its relationship to health, wellbeing and productivity
• Emerging lighting technologies such as PoE, VLC, LiFi and intelligent controls
• The risks, challenges and societal impacts of rapid technological advancement
• The future of lighting design in a highly connected and data driven world

Module 20: The Internet of Things (IoT) in Lighting Applications

The Internet of Things is one of the most powerful enabling technologies of the Fourth Industrial Revolution, transforming how devices, systems and people connect and interact. This learning module introduces IoT as a network of intelligent, connected devices that collect and exchange data, forming the foundation for modern smart lighting, control systems and responsive environments. It provides a clear, practical understanding of how IoT works, from sensors and connectivity to data processing and automation, and explains why it is essential for the future of lighting design.

Building on this foundation, the module explores real world applications across homes, buildings, industries and cities, showing how connected technologies improve efficiency, performance and user experience. It also addresses key challenges such as security, privacy and integration, encouraging you to think critically about responsible implementation. By the end, you will have a strong grasp of how IoT underpins advanced lighting technologies and how it can be applied in modern design practice.

Students will learn about:

• The definition, evolution and core concepts of the Internet of Things
• How IoT systems work, including sensors, connectivity and data exchange
• Consumer applications such as smart homes and connected devices
• Commercial and industrial applications including healthcare and smart buildings
• Smart cities, infrastructure and large scale connected systems
• Enabling technologies such as communication protocols and device integration
• The role of data and analytics in improving performance and decision making
• Key challenges including security, privacy and barriers to adoption

Module 21: Power over Ethernet (PoE) in Lighting Applications

Power over Ethernet (PoE) is transforming lighting from a standalone electrical system into a fully connected, intelligent network. This learning module explores how PoE enables both power and data to be delivered through a single network cable, allowing LED luminaires to become addressable, controllable and integrated into wider building systems. It introduces the fundamental principles of PoE technology and explains why it represents a major shift in how lighting systems are designed, installed and managed.

Building on this foundation, the module examines how PoE is revolutionising modern lighting applications, particularly in offices and smart buildings. You will explore the practical benefits of PoE systems, including simplified installation, improved energy efficiency, enhanced flexibility and the ability to integrate lighting with sensors, controls and building management systems. The module also provides insight into system architecture, performance considerations and the growing convergence between lighting and IT infrastructure.

Students will learn about:

• The definition and principles of Power over Ethernet and how it works
• The advantages of PoE lighting, including cost savings, safety and flexibility
• Integration of lighting into IT networks and connected building systems
• Applications in smart offices, buildings and intelligent environments
• System components, architecture and practical design considerations
• Energy efficiency, DC power benefits and performance factors such as cable length
• Data collection, sensors and the role of PoE in smart lighting ecosystems
• The future of connected lighting and its role in the Fourth Industrial Revolution

Module 22: Visible Light Communication (VLC) and Li-Fi in Lighting Applications

Visible Light Communication (VLC) represents a major breakthrough in lighting technology, transforming luminaires into powerful data transmission tools. This learning module explores how light can be used not only for illumination but also for high speed communication, enabling technologies such as Li Fi to deliver data through the visible light spectrum. It provides a clear understanding of how VLC works, why it is emerging as a solution to the growing limitations of radio frequency communication, and how it integrates with modern lighting systems.

Building on this foundation, the module examines the wide range of real world applications for VLC, from smart buildings and offices to transportation, healthcare and industrial environments. You will explore system architecture, components and networking principles, as well as the advantages of VLC over traditional wireless technologies. The module also highlights the role of Li Fi in creating high speed, secure and highly efficient communication networks within lighting infrastructure.

Students will gain insight into:

• The principles of Visible Light Communication and how data is transmitted using light
• The evolution from traditional wireless communication to Li Fi technology
• Key advantages of VLC, including bandwidth, speed, security and safety
• Applications in smart buildings, offices, healthcare and industrial environments
• Emerging uses such as vehicle communication and intelligent transport systems
• VLC system architecture including transmitters, receivers and network layers
• Integration with PoE lighting systems and connected digital infrastructure
• The role of VLC in enabling high speed, secure and future ready communication networks

Module 23: Indoor Positioning Systems (IPS) in Lighting Applications

Indoor Positioning Systems (IPS) are transforming the way people navigate and interact within indoor environments, bringing the same level of convenience as GPS into spaces where satellite signals cannot reach. This learning module explores how IPS technologies enable accurate indoor navigation, guiding users through complex environments such as airports, hospitals, shopping centres and workplaces. It provides a clear understanding of how IPS works, why it has become essential in modern smart environments, and how it integrates with lighting systems and connected technologies.

Building on this foundation, the module examines the technologies that power IPS, including Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, Li-Fi and beacon systems, and how they are used to track movement, deliver location based services and enhance user experiences. You will explore both client based and server based positioning methods, system installation processes and the key factors that determine successful implementation. The module also highlights the growing role of IPS in smart buildings, retail analytics, healthcare and facility management, reinforcing its importance in the Fourth Industrial Revolution.

Students will gain insight into:

• The concept and purpose of Indoor Positioning Systems
• Technologies used in IPS including Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, Li-Fi and beacons
• How IPS works, including client based and server based positioning
• Applications in retail, healthcare, transport and smart buildings
• Tracking, data analytics and user experience enhancement
• Installation processes and system setup
• Key success factors such as accuracy, responsiveness and reliability
• Integration with lighting systems and connected digital environments

Module 24: Bluetooth Mesh for Smart Lighting Applications

Bluetooth Mesh and Wirepas represent a major step forward in connected lighting, enabling large scale, flexible and highly efficient wireless networks. This learning module explores how advanced communication protocols allow luminaires to communicate with each other across entire buildings and even between multiple sites, forming resilient, decentralised networks that support modern smart lighting applications.

The module introduces the concept of lighting connectivity and compares key communication protocols used in smart lighting, including Bluetooth, Wi Fi, Zigbee, Thread and others. It then focuses on Bluetooth Mesh and Wirepas as powerful solutions for scalable, self healing networks, showing how these technologies simplify installation while enabling responsive, data driven lighting systems. You will also gain an understanding of how these networks integrate with IoT, IPS and other connected technologies to create truly intelligent environments.

Students will learn about:

• The principles of wireless communication protocols used in lighting systems
• Key protocols including Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, Zigbee, Thread and DALI
• How Bluetooth Mesh enables scalable, decentralised lighting networks
• Wirepas technology and its role in resilient wireless communication
• Applications across buildings, campuses and connected environments
• Installation considerations and system setup for mesh networks
• Self healing, flexible and scalable network behaviour
• Integration with IoT, IPS and smart lighting ecosystems

Module 25: Building Automation and Lighting Control Systems in Lighting Applications

Lighting control systems are at the heart of modern smart buildings, transforming lighting from a simple on off function into a dynamic, intelligent and integrated system. This learning module explores how lighting controls have evolved from basic switches to advanced digital systems that manage not only illumination but also energy use, user comfort and building performance. It introduces the concept of multi functional control systems and explains how lighting is now integrated into wider building automation and management platforms.

The module also examines key control technologies and protocols used in lighting applications, including Building Management Systems, DALI, DMX and KNX. You will learn how these systems enable communication between devices, support flexible control strategies and integrate lighting with other building services such as HVAC, security and energy management. The module highlights the benefits, design considerations and real world applications of these systems, preparing you to understand and apply advanced lighting control solutions in modern connected environments.

Students will gain insight into:

• The evolution from basic lighting control to intelligent systems
• Building Management Systems and integrated building automation
• Key protocols including DALI, DMX and KNX
• Two way communication and individual luminaire control
• System architecture, configuration and control strategies
• Energy management, monitoring and optimisation
• User control, flexibility and human centric lighting integration
• The role of lighting controls in smart, connected buildings

Module 26: Human Centric Lighting and Wellbeing in Lighting Applications

Human Centric Lighting (HCL) represents a fundamental shift in lighting design, moving beyond illumination to focus on the biological, emotional and physiological needs of people. This learning module explores how light influences human health, wellbeing and behaviour, and how modern lighting systems can be designed to support natural circadian rhythms. It introduces the principles of HCL, showing how dynamic lighting that adjusts intensity and colour temperature throughout the day can replicate natural daylight and improve overall quality of life.

Building on this foundation, the module examines the science behind HCL, including the role of circadian rhythms, melatonin regulation and the discovery of intrinsically photoreceptive retinal ganglion cells (ipRGCs). You will explore how LED technology and intelligent control systems enable spectrally tuned, responsive lighting environments that enhance mood, productivity, sleep patterns and visual performance. The module also highlights the broader impact of lighting on fauna and flora, reinforcing the importance of responsible, human and environmentally centred lighting design.

Students will learn about:

• The principles and definition of Human Centric Lighting
• The relationship between light, circadian rhythms and human health
• The role of light in sleep, mood, productivity and wellbeing
• The science of ipRGCs and non visual light responses
• How LED technology enables dynamic, tunable lighting systems
• The role of sensors and intelligent control systems in HCL
• The impact of lighting on fauna, flora and environmental sustainability
• The benefits of HCL in workplaces, healthcare, education and daily life

Second Year Special Assignment

This special assignment is a compulsory academic component for students who have successfully completed Module 26. It is designed to consolidate second year learning, deepen technical understanding, and develop the research and communication skills required for advanced study in lighting. The assignment serves as a structured transition from guided learning to independent research and critical thinking, and successful submission is a mandatory requirement before a student is eligible to sit the second year examinations.

The assignment is centred on the in depth investigation of a lighting phenomenon introduced during the second year curriculum. Students are required to conduct independent research that demonstrates a clear understanding of the underlying scientific principles, historical development, and practical implications within the field of illumination engineering.

Module 27: Lighting Design Philosophy and Best Practice in Lighting Applications

Lighting design is more than a technical exercise, it is a disciplined, creative and collaborative process that shapes how people experience spaces. This learning module introduces the principles of lighting design philosophy and best practice, focusing on the importance of a structured design process, a clear design brief and a holistic approach to lighting. It highlights the evolving role of the lighting designer within multidisciplinary teams and emphasises the need for skill, knowledge and professional judgement in delivering effective lighting solutions.

Building on this foundation, the module explores key design concepts and methodologies, including Building Information Modelling (BIM), the contribution of pioneering thinkers such as Richard Kelly, and the development of modern lighting design principles. You will examine how lighting integrates with architecture, interior design and technology, and learn how to balance visual function, ambience, energy efficiency and sustainability. The module reinforces the importance of a human centred, environmentally responsible and design led approach to lighting practice.

Students will learn about:

• The principles of lighting design philosophy and best practice
• The importance of the lighting design brief and structured design process
• The role of the lighting designer within multidisciplinary project teams
• Integration with architecture, interior design and BIM workflows
• Richard Kelly’s lighting concepts and their modern relevance
• Balancing visual function, ambience and performance
• Sustainable lighting design and lifecycle considerations
• Holistic design thinking including cost, maintenance and energy efficiency

Module 28 Part 1: Lighting Design Software: Revision of the Lumen and Point Methods

Lighting design software is a powerful tool, but it is only effective when supported by a solid understanding of fundamental lighting principles and calculation methods. This learning module revisits the manual calculation techniques that underpin all lighting design, reinforcing the importance of the Lumen Method and Point Method as the foundation for accurate and reliable design outcomes. It emphasises that software does not replace knowledge, but enhances the ability of skilled designers to simulate and validate their designs.

Building on this foundation, the module provides a structured revision of key calculation processes, including average illuminance calculations, coefficient of utilisation and light loss factors. You will revisit the assumptions, limitations and practical application of the Lumen Method, as well as the use of the Point Method for calculating illuminance at specific locations. This module prepares you for the transition into computer aided lighting design by strengthening your analytical skills and ensuring that you can confidently interpret and apply software outputs in real world projects.

Students will revise and refresh the following:

• The role of manual calculations in modern lighting design
• Revision of the Lumen Method and its applications
• Coefficient of utilisation and light loss factors
• Calculating average maintained illuminance
• Revision of the Point Method and inverse square law calculations
• Limitations and assumptions of calculation methods
• The importance of technical knowledge when using design software
• Preparing for computer aided lighting design and simulation

Module 28: Part 2: Computer Aided Lighting Design and Critical Evaluation of Software Outputs

Computer aided lighting design software is a powerful tool that enables designers to model, simulate and analyse lighting solutions with speed and precision. This module introduces the role of software in professional lighting design and provides an overview of leading platforms such as Relux, Dialux and AGi32.

The module focuses on the practical use of Relux Desktop, demonstrating how it supports detailed lighting design, CAD integration, 3D visualisation, daylight modelling and professional reporting. It also emphasises that the accuracy of any result depends entirely on the quality of the input data. A key focus is developing critical judgement when using software tools. You will learn how to identify common pitfalls, validate results using manual calculation methods and avoid blindly accepting outputs without proper verification.

You’ll gain insight into:

• Lighting design software tools and platforms
• The capabilities of Relux Pro
• CAD integration and 3D modelling
• Daylight simulation and analysis
• Energy and performance reporting
• Validation using manual calculations
• Common software pitfalls
• Professional judgement in design decisions

Module 28: Part 3 : Lighting Design Software: Relux Desktop

Students will learn how to use and operate lighting planning software:

• Lighting design software tools and platforms
• Practical use of Relux Desktop for lighting design
• CAD integration, modelling and scene development
• Daylight simulation and environmental analysis
• Visualisation and presentation techniques
• Energy analysis and performance reporting
• Critical evaluation and professional judgement in design outcomes

Module 28 Part 4: Bonus Learning Content

Advanced lighting design requires more than technical ability, it demands experience driven refinement and optimisation. This short module introduces practical, real world techniques for using Relux Desktop at a more advanced level, helping you move beyond basic operation into professional application.

You will explore how to enhance your designs by applying standards, incorporating advanced data such as IES TM 24 13 and EVE factors, and adapting to real world conditions that impact lighting performance. The module also introduces built in tools for economic analysis and performance optimisation, reinforcing the importance of accuracy, efficiency and continuous improvement in lighting design.

Students will gain insight into:

• Advanced Relux techniques from professional experience
• Designing to standards within software
• Applying EVE factors and spectral data
• Modelling real world design impacts
• Built in economic analysis tools
• Refining and optimising professional lighting designs

Module 29: Lighting Economics in Lighting Applications

Lighting economics is a critical component of professional lighting design, linking technical performance with financial decision making. This module introduces the principles of lighting economics, focusing on how energy efficiency, lifespan and cost of ownership influence the overall value of a lighting system. It highlights the importance of presenting accurate financial analyses to support design proposals and demonstrate clear return on investment to clients.

The module explores how modern lighting technologies, particularly LED systems and advanced controls, impact both capital and operational costs. You will learn how to evaluate different design strategies, consider client requirements and apply practical tools such as Relux economic reporting and lifecycle cost analysis. The module emphasises that well presented economic data can be the decisive factor in securing project approval.

Students will learn about:

• The principles of lighting economics and cost of ownership
• Energy efficiency and operational cost considerations
• Return on investment and lifecycle cost analysis
• Comparing lighting technologies and system strategies
• Understanding client requirements and financial expectations
• The economic impact of lighting control systems
• Using Relux for economic analysis and reporting
• Presenting clear, accurate financial data to clients

AT THE END OF THE  SECOND YEAR, IN THE TWENTY FOURTH MONTH OF THE STUDY YEAR OF THE INDIVIDUAL STUDENT, BOTH THEORETICAL AND PRACTICAL EXAMINATIONS ARE WRITTEN. THE DURATION OF EACH OF THE THEORETICAL & PRACTICAL EXAMINATIONS, IS 8 HOURS EACH. 

END OF COURSE CURRICULUM