Social Science

Programme Short Name: BSocSc (Hons) (NFQ Level 8)
Load (FT vs PT): Full Time
Levels (UG, G, etc): Graduate studies
Course Information:

CAO Code: DN550
CAO Points Range 2015: 420 - 525
Length of Course: 3 Years
Places: 145

Leaving Certificate: Passes in six subjects including English, Irish, Mathematics & three other recognised subjects. Two of the six subjects must be minimum HC3.

Click below for equivalent entry requirements information for:
A-Level/GCSE
Other EU Applicants
Non-EU Applicants
Level 5/6 FETAC Entry Routes
Level 6/7 Progression Routes
Mature Entry Route


Why is this course for me?

This degree is the ideal choice if you know you want to work in a people-focused environment, and if you are interested in society and the social issues that face Ireland and the world today. It covers a broad range of exciting topics, providing you with a sound foundation from which to pursue many interesting career choices and a wide range of postgraduate opportunities.

Our first-rate lecturers will introduce you to social work, crime, environmental policy, development studies, social justice, business organisation and human resource management, and social media. You’ll learn about the complexities of life and the society in which you live, and how best to respond to human needs, including the needs of those who are marginalised.


What will I study?

First Year
You’ll undertake required modules in Social Policy and Sociology, as well as selecting modules from a range of social science subjects. You’ll receive all the support and academic advice you need to choose the most appropriate combination of subjects for your career and/or graduate study choices.

Subjects include:

  • Sociology
  • Social Policy
  • Archaeology
  • Economics
  • Geography
  • Information and Social Computing
  • Politics
  • Philosophy
  • Psychology (Note: Psychology is not available as a major subject in second and third year but some Psychology modules may be offered within the paths listed below.)

Second & Third Year
At the beginning of second year you choose your major subjects for your degree. You select one of the following paths:

  1. Social Work
  2. Environmental Policy
  3. Development Studies
  4. Human & Organisational
  5. Rights, Justice and Society
  6. Crime and Social Order
  7. Social Media (Students can opt for a professional qualification in Librarianship within this path)

For detailed information on subject content click here.

Students spend an average of 40 hours per week attending lectures and small group teaching along with independent study.

A combination of end-of-semester exams and continuous assessment through a variety of methods (e.g. essays, individual and group projects) is used.


Career & Graduate Study Opportunities

This programme offers clear pathways that lead to a number of career opportunities and graduate courses. These are set out in detail in the diagram here. You will be offered guidance throughout your degree to ensure you are taking the most appropriate modules for your career goals.


International Study Opportunity:

In your second year, you can apply to enter the four-year Bachelor of Social Science (International) degree. If accepted, you can attend one of our partner universities in countries such as Australia, Belgium, Canada, Denmark, Finland, France, Italy, Malta, the Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Spain, Sweden and the USA.


Graduate Profile

David McDunphy

I am now employed as a Social Worker for the HSE, making a difference in people’s lives, thanks to my studies in Social Science.

David McDunphy, completed a Bachelor of Social Science Degree followed by a Master's in Social Work in UCD.

For those students who want an interesting, relevant and yet challenging degree, Social Science is definitely the one for them!

Lorna McNally, Student


Related Programs: BA - Joint Honours - full time
Psychology
Pathway


Contact Information:

Colin McMahon
Social Science Programme Manager
Newman Building
Belfield, Dublin 4

Tel: +353 1 716 8223
Email: bsocsc@ucd.ie