Youth and Community Work

Tuition Fee

Not Available

Start Date

Not Available

Medium of studying

On campus

Duration

36 months

Details

Program Details

Degree

Bachelors

Major

Community Development

Area of study

Social Sciences | Education

Education type

On campus

Timing

Full time

Course Language

English

About Program

Program Overview

Introduction to the Youth and Community Work Program

The Bachelor of Social Science in Youth and Community Work is a three-year, full-time program designed for individuals interested in working with communities, particularly with young people. This unique degree combines an academic social science program with a professionally accredited qualification in youth work, recognized by employers in the Republic of Ireland, Northern Ireland, and throughout the UK.

Course Outline

The program offers a range of foundational subjects, including Sociology, Social Policy, and Research Methods. Contemporary subjects such as the sociology of youth, principles and practice of youth and community work, citizen engagement and social movements, children and young people's rights, working with groups and communities, global education, young people's mental health, the use of social media in youth and community work, sustainability, and the environment are also covered. The course is structured to introduce students to key concepts and theories, with the first year focused on foundational knowledge.

Modules

Year 1:
- Introduction to Youth & Community Work (10 credits)
- Social Analysis (10 credits)
- Principles and Practice of Youth and Community Work (10 credits)
- Social Policy 1 (10 credits)
- Level 1 Professional Placement (10 credits)
- Contemporary Issues in Youth and Community Work (5 credits)
- Informal and Global Education in a Youth and Community Work Setting (5 credits)
Years 2 and 3: See the Academic Programme Catalogue for the current core and elective modules.

Course Practicalities

The program integrates academic study with professional practice training in youth and community work. Students generally attend lectures, tutorials, and supervisions two to three days a week. Placements are a crucial part of the program, with students required to complete two days/16 hours of supervised practice placement weekly in a recognized agency over the academic year in the first and second years. In the third year, students undertake a 10-week full-time block placement in the second semester.

Assessment

Assessment is by examination (25%) and continuous assessment (75%), based on written assignments that are part of the course. These consist of projects, case studies, and essays. The Practice Placement module is assessed on a pass/fail basis.

Why Choose This Course

Previous students have highlighted the balance of lecture hours and placement hours as a perfect blend for applying theoretical knowledge in practical settings. The small class sizes and the opportunity for discussions and research projects also make this course appealing. Graduates have found employment in various roles, including as health support workers, and have praised the course for its educational and informal balance, preparing them for careers in youth and community work.

Requirements

Leaving Certificate Students

At least six subjects must be presented.
Minimum grade H5 in two subjects and minimum grade O6/H7 in four other subjects.
English and Irish are requirements for all programs.

Additional Requirements

This is a restricted program; all applicants must apply to the CAO on or before 1 February in the year of entry.
Applicants will also be called for an interview as part of the selection process.
Applicants should have the equivalent of at least one year of verifiable experience in the youth/community/voluntary sector.

Mature Students

Must be 23 on or before 1st January of the year of proposed entry.
Apply through the CAO before 1 February of the year of proposed entry and include a statement of interest.
Successful completion of a suitable access course is desirable.

QQI FET

Applicants should have the equivalent of at least one year of verifiable experience in the youth/community/voluntary sector.
Interviews are used as an additional selection mechanism.

Fees and Costs

Whether you are an EU or Non-EU student affects the course fees applicable to you.
The State will pay the tuition fees for EU students who are eligible under the Free Fees Scheme.
The annual student contribution and capitation fees are payable by the student.

How to Apply

Irish and European (EU/EFTA/UK) Applicants

Apply via the CAO.

Mature Applicants

Apply via the CAO by 1 February.

QQI/FET Applicants