Course Summary
The programme aims to educate learners to high levels of contemporary and comparative theoretical awareness in fields central to services provision (transitions across the lifespan, cultural diversity, youth and families) and to create an atmosphere of rigorous academic enquiry and writing.
College Link
Career Sectors
This course prepares you for working in the Career Sectors below. Follow the links to get a fuller understanding of the sectors you are preparing for.
Entry Requirements
Programme participants are required to hold a Level 8 degree (with a minimum of 2nd Class Honours) in the following areas:
- Early Childhood Education and Care
- Applied Social Studies
- Social and Community Studies
- Youth and Community
or a primary Level 8 degree in Social Sciences or cognate area (minimum 2nd class honours).
Candidates with significant experience in the social sciences (as determined by SETU Carlow's Recognised Prior Learning (RPL) policy), in addition to an honours primary degree in another discipline area may also be considered for entry. Applicants applying for entry via routes other than those listed above will be considered on a case-by-case basis and in accordance with SETU Carlow's Recognised Prior Learning (RPL) policy.
All Non-EU applicants should refer to the International section of the SETU website for further information.
Application Details
Next intake: September 2025.
Fees
The Student
Career Interests
This course is typically suited for people with the following Career Interests. If these interests do not describe you, this course may prepare you for work you may not find satisfying.
Social
The Social person's interests focus on interacting with the people in their environment. In all cases, the Social person enjoys the personal contact with other people in preference to the impersonal dealings with things, data and ideas found in other groups.
Many will seek out positions where there is direct contact with the public in some advisory role, whether a receptionist or a counsellor. Social people are motivated by an interest in different types of people and like diversity in their work environments. Many are drawn towards careers in the caring professions and social welfare area, whilst others prefer teaching and other 'informing' roles.
Career Progression
Graduates of the programme may progress to a PhD programme of studying the discipline areas, in Ireland or abroad. Graduates of the programme may also be eligible to progress to a professional doctorate in the field of Child, Youth and Family Studies in both Irish and international Institutions.
Potential employment opportunities:
- Community based organisations and projects both at a voluntary and statutory capacity
- National rights focused organisations and advisory groups
- Family support services
- Services catering for the care, education and advocacy of children and families in society