The GAI Diploma in Door Systems educates on all aspects of the architectural ironmongery industry with emphasis on the door.

Read on for more information, and scroll to the bottom of the page to enrol and take the next step on your GAI learning journey today!

This three-stage course is ideal for anyone specifying architectural ironmongery, or working with architectural ironmongery specifications, who wants to build and demonstrate the technical expertise and understanding to know what can and should be specified, why, and the key factors involved in door systems.

The course leads to qualification as a Diploma holder in Door Systems (DipDS). Building on this qualification, a CPD programme supports learners working towards Registered Door Systems (RegDS) status.

This course includes content across the following areas:

  • Doorsets and Door Assemblies
  • Linear gap
  • Smoke control considerations
  • The role of air transfer grilles
  • Other door systems; glass and partitioning
  • Considerations when writing a door specification
  • Example specifications for composite and uPVC
  • Doors and the environment
  • Third Party Certification Schemes
  • Testing of fire doors
  • Thermal efficiency of a door
  • Composite and uPVC Doors
  • Fire Door Closing Systems
  • Applications for timber and steel doors
  • BIM and doorsets
  • Relevant Standards

On average, learners will be expected to dedicate 80 hours to studying over a one-year period, with the exact amount depending on each individual learner.

The course is run to an academic year and enrolments open 1st September.

Learners who complete or have completed the Certificate in Architectural Hardware from Summer 2021 onwards can enrol directly on to the Diploma in Door Systems. Learners who completed the Certificate in Architectural Hardware or GAI Diploma before this date must complete a bridging course which can be taken in advance of, or concurrently with, the new diploma course.

Due to the amount of time required for concurrent study, learners selecting this option may choose to take their final examination on with the traditional June exam day or one of the retake dates in September or October.

Each learner will answer a set of compulsory coursework questions at the end of each stage of learning and must achieve a minimum score of 60% to sit a final examination held at a PearsonVue test centre.

On completion of the final examination, you will achieve the GAI Diploma in Door Systems:

  • A unique breadth of knowledge and understanding across door systems and architectural ironmongery.
  • Successful candidates will receive their GAI Diploma at the annual Education Awards, and may use the post-nominal letters DipDS.
  • A GAI continuing professional development (CPD) programme for the sector will allow the diploma holder to work towards Registered Door Systems (RegDS) status.

This qualification is ideal for anyone specifying architectural ironmongery, or working with architectural ironmongery specifications, who wants to build and demonstrate the technical expertise and understanding to know what can and should be specified, why, and the key factors involved.

It will also meet the needs of anyone involved in the architectural ironmongery or door industry who needs the evidence to prove they have the knowledge and are a competent person in their field of expertise.