Social Policy

Curious about social and economic policy issues around the world? Searching for a course that demands both academic and vocational qualities? Interested in understanding society, its social problems and have a desire to make a difference? Then Social Policy may be the subject choice for you. It is particularly relevant to students intending to pursue a career in research, social policy analysis and evaluation, management and planning within the social services, both voluntary and statutory, as well as to those with a general interest in society and social policy.

Political Science

Political Science will appeal to students who are excited about exploring the background to current events, the nature and use of power and how decisions are made that impact on wider society. If you are interested in having an in-depth knowledge of public affairs, developing critical and much sought after research skills and if your career interests lie in journalism, public service, teaching, public policy, international organisation and/or business then Political Science may be for you.

This degree offers a range of skills and understandings that prepares students for employment in various roles in both non-governmental organisations and the voluntary sector as well as in the public sector.

Social Science is the interdisciplinary study of human society. This honours undergraduate degree is designed around five core areas of social science; Sociology, Psychology, Criminology, Social Policy and Research. As well as gaining a strong, evidence-based understanding of these interesting and inter-related subjects, you will develop useful, work-ready skills such as flexibility, teamwork, critical thinking, creativity and interpersonal communication - all highly valued by employers.

The Social Science programme emphasises the study of applied social science through the subject Social Policy. This subject, which can only be taken through the BSocSc degree, is concerned with critical analysis of policies and practices in relation to human welfare and well-being.

This course draws on core Social Science disciplines such as; Social Policy, Sociology, Psychology, Economics and Politics, with an emphasis on Social Research and Social Studies in Context.

The Bachelor of Social Science degree (BSocSc) studies the social, cultural, psychological, political, and economic influences that shape the world we live in. Over the course of three years, Social Science students develop highly valuable skills – including argumentation, problem-solving, critical thinking, writing, analytical, and research skills – that enable them to flourish as learners, people, professionals, active citizens, advocates, and activists. 

This degree combines an academic social science programme with a professionally accredited qualification in youth work. This professional qualification is recognised by employers in the Republic of Ireland, Northern Ireland, and throughout the UK. This programme offers a range of foundational subjects including Sociology, Social Policy, and Research Methods. 

The Bachelor of Science in Social Sciences emphasizes interdisciplinary study, allowing students to combine three disciplines. This is combined with a core in data science, emphasizing issues of data literacy, techniques of data collection and data management, and tools for collecting or harvesting data from virtual spaces. Students will also have an opportunity to undertake individual research in the social sciences, under the supervision of a discipline expert.

Students will also be presented with the opportunity to learn in a work environment during their Cooperative Education Placement and study abroad at a partner institution overseas as part of UL’s award-winning Erasmus and Exchange programme. Each of these off-campus experiences provide excellent opportunities for growth and valuable opportunities for practical workplace-based skill building as well as exposure to new intercultural and social environments.

Social Sciences students explore society and how people behave as individuals and in groups. With the four-year Social Sciences degree, you choose DN700 at CAO and then select your preferred option below. Your subject choices are guaranteed.

The Two Subjects Choice (TSC) options are: Archaeology; Economics; Geography; Information & Communication Studies, Philosophy; Politics and Sociology.

There are options to change subject choices at the end of first year if you wish. You will gain a deep understanding of each subject you choose to study and develop real-world skills in research, communication and leadership. You may additionally apply for an internship, or study abroad for a year or a semester. You will learn to analyse, criticise and challenge beliefs and assumptions - including your own.

DCU’s BA in Social Sciences and Cultural Innovation is a unique degree where you will gain in-depth knowledge in three disciplines - culture, media and politics - whilst also developing key competencies to underpin your success in a wide variety of careers. 

On this course you will; explore the meaning and power of culture, examine the hugely influential role played by media and technology in society, and you’ll learn about national and international political systems

The BSc (Social Science) programme is aimed at motivated school leavers and mature students who have a strong penchant for the study of some of the most fundamental issues and concerns for modern society and the environment. The programme strongly focuses on the applied nature of the Social Sciences and will equip students with practical research skills, in addition to focussing on career development and readiness, and further educational opportunities. 

You will learn about individual human development, culture and diversity, the formation of our beliefs, values and our personal identity, how groups and institutions influence people’s everyday lives, addiction studies, power, authority, criminality and governance from historical to contemporary times.

The course will suit you if you wish to work with children or young people, older people, and marginalised groups in society.

Erasmus + Programme

This course is a foundation for anyone planning a career in the social care field. It can be your stepping-stone to a wide range of Higher Education pathways and career options.

You’ll be introduced to the academic foundation and practical experience necessary of the social sciences. Through the study of a fascinating array subjects, you can develop an awareness and understanding of the complexity of contemporary social issues, equality, diversity and social values.

On this advanced course you will explore the relationship between the individual and society, and how through working and taking action together, we can transform both the world around us and ourselves, for better.

Community development promotes participative democracy, sustainable development, rights, economic opportunity, equality and social justice, through the organisation, education and empowerment of people within their communities. Through this course you will develop skills to empower individuals and groups of people with the skills they need to effect change within their communities learning how to work with individuals and larger social institutions.

Social work is a profession concerned with supporting and helping people in a variety of situations and settings.

People who use social work services include young and adult offenders, children, families, older people, people with mental and physical illness and disability, homeless people, unemployed people, ethnic groups, Travellers and people with drug and alcohol problems. Ultimately, social work aims to support people to live more successfully, within their communities by helping them to find solutions to their problems.

This one-year Social Studies and Youth Work course is designed for those who would like to pursue a career in the youth and community sector or progress to further education in the areas of youth work or social studies. It is ideal for anyone who would enjoy working with young people in a variety of social settings, who’s values would include the empowerment of vulnerable people, equality and inclusion and respect for all young people. 

This course offers a broad introduction to the area of Social Studies including Psychology and Sociology. The course also explores a range of social issues including crime, migration, inequality, and substance use.

The Applied Social Studies program is a foundational one-year course designed for those passionate about supporting individuals and communities. The curriculum bridges the gap between theory and practice, providing hands-on work experience to prepare you for diverse roles involving adolescents, families, and the elderly. Whether you are a school leaver or a mature student, this course serves as both a direct entry-point into the professional care workforce and a recognized academic link to degree-level studies in Social Care or Nursing at Technological Universities nationwide.

This programme has been designed to provide learners with the essential practical and theoretical skills of social studies, including psychology and associated therapies, the role of the youth worker and an insight into challenges facing our communities and young people.

The BSc Honours Degree in Social Work is a professional qualification that meets the requirements of the Northern Ireland Social Care Council. Training to become a social worker involves a mixture of academic study and professional practice learning opportunities for a total of 185 days during the Degree. During Practice Placements (two episodes of 85 days and 100 days) students will work full time alongside social work practitioners and supported and assessed by a Practice Teacher. A range of placement opportunities are provided by a wide range of agency partners from Health and Social Care Trusts and other voluntary and statutory agencies and these providers are integral to the development and delivery of the programme.

The design and delivery of this ‘fast track’ degree programme is premised on the relevant graduate qualities of the applicant in meeting the demands of this accelerated learning programme.

Successful applicants found the information in the Northern Ireland Social Care Council learning zone, helped them prepare and conduct a good interview.