BA (Hons) Social Science

Program Overview

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BA (Hons) Social Science - Full-time

Overview

The BA (Hons) in Social Science is a Level 8, 180 ECTS undergraduate degree that prepares students for employment in various roles in non-governmental organisations, the voluntary sector, and the public sector. This interdisciplinary programme covers five core areas of social science: Sociology, Psychology, Criminology, Social Policy, and Research.

Programme Objectives

• Challenge students to think rigorously and scientifically about society and social processes
• Guide, train, and upskill learners to carry out their own research
• Equip learners with transversal skills embedded in a mix of unique modules
• Provide pathways for postgraduate study in areas such as Addiction Studies, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Criminology, and more

Delivery

This programme is taught on a hybrid basis, with learners timetabled either in-class or online, in a mix of online and in-class days.

Teaching and Assessment

• Flexible, active, peer-led, experiential, and reflective learning environment
• Modules delivered in a hybrid mode through workshops, practical sessions, tutorials, lectures, and sociological experiments
• Assessment takes various forms, including learning journals, case studies, project work, and formal examinations

Student Testimonial

"DBS is famous with foreigners living in Dublin and well talked about, so I decided to give it a try. DBS is an outstanding college that makes sure their students get the best education and pass their exams so it is highly recommendable. I want to say thank you DBS and all the lecturers and staff that made it possible for me to achieve my dream and finally become a graduate. I am more confident now than ever before. I'm planning to get a master's degree and my DBS degree will see me through. DBS has been of major help because, it boosted my confidence and moral and made my career perfect."

Year 1

• Foundations in Social Psychology
• The Sociological Imagination
• Introduction to Social Research
• Psychology through the Lifespan 1
• Social Policy and Law for Social Care 1
• Critical Thinking Skills
• Foundations in Criminology

Year 2

• Economic Sociology
• Criminology in Action - Youth Justice
• Campaigning, Advocacy, and Public Engagement
• Interpersonal and Group Communication Skills
• Advanced Social Research
• Contemporary Inequalities
• Politics in the Modern World
• Social Psychology
• Psychology in Action

Year 3

• Contemporary Criminology
• Cyberpsychology
• Organisational Psychology
• Social Science Research Project
• Sociology of Families, Intimacies and Personal Life
• Contemporary Social Policy in Ireland
• Environment and Society
• Global Issues

Structure

The programme is divided into three levels, with students taking the programme in its entirety. Year 1 provides a solid understanding of foundational concepts, Year 2 develops and applies knowledge, and Year 3 focuses on contemporary subjects.

Career Opportunities

The interdisciplinary nature of this programme enables students to apply their knowledge in various contexts and sectors. Career opportunities include:

• Youth Justice Worker
• Community Welfare Officer
• Community Worker/Community Development Worker
• Education Programme Co-ordinator
• Equality Officer
• Advice Worker
• Disability Officer
• Press Officer
• Communication Officer
• Project Coordinator
• Project Manager
• Project Worker

Fees

The fees for Full-time BA (Hons) in Social Science are €6,060 per annum for EU students. International fees apply to non-EU students.

Next Steps

Before making an application, ensure you are aware of all entry requirements. Application procedures vary depending on the type of applicant (school leaver, standard, mature, transfer, EU, or non-EU).

Awarding Body

Quality & Qualifications Ireland (QQI)

Award

Honours Bachelor Degree

NFQ Level

Level 8

Award Title

BA (Hons) Social Science

Award Type

Major

Duration

3 Years

CAO Code

DB566

Next Intake

September 2025

Related Information

• Recognition and Accreditation
• Application Procedures
• Entry Requirements
• Career Services
• For Guidance Counsellors
• Student Services
• All Full-Time Programmes
• How to Fill in the CAO

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

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Overview:

The BA (Hons) in Social Science is a full-time program designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the major areas within the social sciences: The program equips students with the knowledge, skills, and critical thinking necessary to analyze and engage with complex social issues and pursue diverse career paths.

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Objectives:

• Develop a strong understanding of social science concepts and theories.

• Critically analyze social structures, processes, and problems.

• Employ research methods to investigate social phenomena.

• Communicate effectively and persuasively, both orally and in writing.

• Promote social justice and advocate for positive change.

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Program Description:

The BA (Hons) in Social Science offers a stimulating and challenging curriculum that combines theoretical knowledge with practical application. Students benefit from a diverse range of learning activities, including:

• Interactive workshops and seminars
• Engaging practical sessions
• Collaborative projects and group work
• Experiential learning opportunities
• Independent research
The program is designed to be flexible and adaptable, allowing students to tailor their learning experience to their individual interests and career aspirations. ## Outline:

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Program Structure:

The program is divided into three levels, each building upon the knowledge and skills acquired in the previous level.

• Year 1: Lays the foundation for understanding key social science concepts across all five core areas.
• Year 2: Deepens students' understanding of specific areas within social science and focuses on application of acquired knowledge.
• Year 3: Explores contemporary social issues and challenges students to conduct an independent research project under the guidance of a supervisor.

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Course Schedule:

The program is taught on a hybrid basis, with a mix of in-class and online sessions. Students have access to a detailed timetable outlining their schedule for each semester.

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Modules:

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Year 1:

• Foundations in Social Psychology
• The Sociological Imagination
• Introduction to Social Research
• Psychology through the Lifespan 1
• Social Policy and Law for Social Care 1
• Critical Thinking Skills
• Foundations in Criminology

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Year 2:

• Economic Sociology
• Criminology in Action - Youth Justice
• Campaigning, Advocacy, and Public Engagement
• Interpersonal and Group Communication Skills
• Advanced Social Research
• Contemporary Inequalities
• Politics in the Modern World
• Social Psychology
• Psychology in Action

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Year 3:

• Contemporary Criminology
• Cyberpsychology
• Organisational Psychology
• Social Science Research Project
• Sociology of Families, Intimacies and Personal Life
• Contemporary Social Policy in Ireland
• Environment and Society
• Global Issues
## Assessment: The program employs a variety of assessment methods to evaluate student learning and progress. These methods include:
• Learning journals: Requiring students to reflect on their learning experiences and engage with course content.
• Case studies: Applying theoretical knowledge to real-world scenarios and developing problem-solving skills.
• Project work: Collaborating on group or individual projects to demonstrate understanding and application of key concepts.
• Formal examinations: Testing students' knowledge and comprehension of course material.
## Teaching: The program features a dedicated team of experienced and passionate lecturers who are experts in their respective fields. They employ a variety of teaching methods to create an engaging and interactive learning environment. These methods include:
• Lectures: Providing students with foundational knowledge and introducing key concepts.
• Seminars: Promoting discussion and critical analysis of social issues.
• Workshops: Engaging students in hands-on activities and applying theoretical knowledge to practical scenarios.
• Individual and group tutorials: Offering personalized support and guidance to students.
## Careers: The BA (Hons) in Social Science prepares graduates for a wide range of career opportunities in diverse sectors, including:
• Government and public policy organizations
• Non-governmental organizations (NGOs) and charities
• Education and research institutions
• Social welfare and community development agencies
• Private sector organizations with a social mission
• Media and communications industries
Specific career examples include:
• Youth Justice Worker
• Community Welfare Officer
• Community Worker / Community Development Worker
• Education Programme Coordinator
• Equality Officer
• Advice Worker
• Disability Officer
• Press Officer
• Communications Officer
• Project Coordinator
• Project Manager
• Project Worker
• Research Assistant
• Policy Analyst
• Social Media Manager
• Marketing and Communications Specialist
• Human Resources Specialist
• Program Development Specialist
## Other:
• The program is delivered by Dublin Business School, a reputable institution with a strong reputation for academic excellence and industry connections.
• The program is recognized by Quality and Qualifications Ireland (QQI) and holds Level 8 status on the National Framework of Qualifications (NFQ).
• Graduates of the program are eligible to pursue further postgraduate studies in related fields.
• The program emphasizes experiential learning and provides opportunities for students to engage in internships, volunteering, and other real-world experiences.
• The program is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive learning environment that welcomes students from all backgrounds.

The full extraction contains considerably more detail about each section and provides additional examples and insights.

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The fees for Full-time BA (Hons) in Social Science are €5,995 per annum for EU students. Click here to view international fees. Click here to view EU fees. You can also contact our admissions team who will also be able to advise on the payment options available to you. Fees quoted cover the annual cost of tuition, registration and examinations and are EU fees only.Non-EU students please refer to the International section of the website.Please note also that tax relief is available on fees for Irish income tax payers at the standard rate of 20% on all fees exceeding €3,000 and up to €7,000.