Diploma in Social Studies

The Diploma in Social Studies is an interdisciplinary programme designed to introduce students to the social sciences. This diversity of disciplines allows students to develop a critical awareness of the key issues that impact on everyday life in contemporary society.

Course Outline

The course will provide participants with a firm grounding in theoretical areas and enable them to develop a capacity for critical thinking. Irish society has undergone rapid social change in recent years, and the Diploma in Social Studies aims to provide students with an in-depth knowledge of the key trends from a social science perspective.

Course Practicalities

This course takes place on Tuesday evenings from 7:00 pm to 10:00 pm from September/October to May, plus some Saturdays. It runs over two years with the option of an exit award of Cert at the end of year one.

Assessment

All work is assessed on a continuous basis through a combination of essays, journals of learning in class tests, and oral presentations.

Why Choose This Course

The course will provide participants with a firm grounding in theoretical areas and enable them to develop a capacity for critical thinking.

Requirements

• Applicants must be at least 21 years of age by 1 January of the year of application
• Normally have Leaving Certificate or FETAC Level 5 or an equivalent qualification
• Applicants may be required to attend for interview
• English Language Requirement: All applicants whose first language is not English must have attained IELTS Level 6 or the equivalent TOEFL score or the equivalent Duolingo score
• On successful completion of this programme, students will have the opportunity to apply for entry into Year 2 of the full-time undergraduate Bachelors degree in Social Science in University College Cork
• Applicants will be asked to submit a Personal Statement, detailing their motivation to take this course and any work or life experience relevant to the subject (maximum one page)

Fees and Costs

• Fees: 1,500 per academic year
• Concession fee is 1,000
• All students pay 750 on application
• Those in receipt of concessionary fee must pay balance of 250 by 31st January

Additional Supports

• Students who are registered on this programme are eligible to apply for the Financial Aid Fund for Part-Time Students
• The UCC Student Assistance fund
• The Lough Credit Union

How to Apply

Applicants need to be aware of the IT student checklist before applying. To apply for this course, follow the steps outlined on the application portal.

Modules

Year 1

• AD1868 Introduction to Academic Writing
• AP1860 Psychology as a Science
• EC1803 Markets and Governments: An Introduction to Microeconomics
• SC1806 Introduction to Sociology
• SS1840 Introduction to Social Policy

Year 2

• AP2818 Social Psychology and Development
• EC2802 Markets and Governments: An Introduction to Macroeconomics
• PH2807 Social Philosophy
• SC2804 Key Issues in Sociology
• SS2833 Exploring Irish Social Policy

Similar Courses

• Social and Psychological Health Studies

Contact Details

For academic queries and course content queries, please contact the Programme Coordinator. For online application support, please click on the provided link.

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Degree Overview:

The Diploma in Social Studies is an interdisciplinary program designed to introduce students to the social sciences. It covers sociology, social policy, social psychology, social philosophy, and economics. The program aims to provide students with a critical awareness of key issues impacting contemporary society and equip them with divergent thinking skills. It offers an in-depth understanding of social science trends in Irish society.

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Outline:

• Duration: 2 years
• Teaching Mode: Part-Time
• Venue: Joint delivery: UCC and Cork College of Further Education and Training Service Morrisons Island Campus
• Schedule: Tuesday evenings from 7.00pm to 10.00pm from September/October to May plus some Saturdays.
• Modules:
• Year 1:
• AD1868 Introduction to Academic Writing
• AP1860 Psychology as a Science
• EC1803 Markets and Governments: An Introduction to Microeconomics
• SC1806 Introduction to Sociology
• SS1840 Introduction to Social Policy
• Year 2:
• AP2818 Social Psychology and Development
• EC2802 Markets and Governments: An Introduction to Macroeconmics
• PH2807 Social Philosophy
• SC2804 Key Issues in Sociology
• SS2833 Exploring Irish Social Policy

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Careers:

On successful completion of the program, students have the opportunity to apply for entry into Year 2 of the full-time undergraduate Bachelor's degree in Social Science at University College Cork.

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Other:

The course will provide participants with a firm grounding in theoretical areas and enable them to develop a capacity for critical thinking.

University College Cork

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Overview:

University College Cork (UCC) is a public research university located in Cork, Ireland. It is a constituent university of the National University of Ireland (NUI). UCC offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across various disciplines.

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Services Offered:

Student Support:

UCC provides a range of support services for students, including academic advising, career counseling, and mental health services.

Library:

The Boole Library offers extensive resources, including books, journals, and online databases.

Campus Life:

UCC offers a vibrant campus life with numerous student clubs, societies, and sports teams.

Accommodation:

UCC provides on-campus accommodation options for students.

International Office:

The International Office supports international students with visa applications, cultural adjustment, and other services.

Adult Continuing Education:

UCC offers a variety of programs for adult learners, including evening classes and online courses.

Continuing Professional Development:

UCC provides professional development opportunities for working professionals.

Micro-credentials:

UCC offers micro-credentials in various fields, allowing students to gain specific skills and knowledge.

Scholarships and Prizes:

UCC offers a range of scholarships and prizes to support students financially.

Transition-In Programme:

UCC provides a transition-in program for students who are new to higher education.

Graduate Attributes:

UCC focuses on developing graduate attributes such as critical thinking, communication, and problem-solving skills.

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Student Life and Campus Experience:

UCC offers a vibrant campus experience with a strong sense of community. Students can participate in a wide range of activities, including sports, clubs, societies, and events. The campus is located in a beautiful setting, with easy access to the city of Cork.

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Key Reasons to Study There:

World-class Education:

UCC is renowned for its high-quality education and research.

Strong Academic Programs:

UCC offers a wide range of academic programs across various disciplines.

Vibrant Campus Life:

UCC provides a vibrant campus life with numerous opportunities for students to get involved.

Beautiful Location:

UCC is located in a beautiful setting, with easy access to the city of Cork.

International Reputation:

UCC is a globally recognized university with a strong international reputation.

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Academic Programs:

UCC offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across various disciplines, including:

• Arts, Humanities, and Social Sciences
• Business and Law
• Engineering and Science
• Medicine and Health Sciences
• Education
• Music

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Other:

• UCC is committed to sustainability and has been recognized as the world's first green campus.
• UCC is a member of the National University of Ireland (NUI).
• UCC has a strong research focus and is home to a number of research centers and institutes.
• UCC is a popular choice for international students, with a large international student population.