Applied Social Care (Part-Time) – BA

Course Overview

This programme is approved by CORU – Health and Social Care Regulatory Body.

If you would like to work in a profession that provides care, protection, support, welfare and advocacy for vulnerable or dependent individuals or groups, social care will be of interest to you. Social care workers are committed to the planning and delivery of quality care and other support services in partnership with individuals and groups with identified needs. As well as protecting and advocating for individuals and groups, social care workers guide, challenge and support those entrusted to their care toward achieving their full potential.

This programme offers a wide variety of learning opportunities. Students will acquire the knowledge and skills to work with children and/or adults who need support in a variety of settings. We aim to deliver best practice in our teaching to support students to become competent and confident social care workers. The three practice placements linked with this course (800 hours in total) are a central feature of the student’s experience during the four and a half year programme.

Additional Information

Garda Vetting

Garda Vetting is a requirement of this programme and will comply with TUS Midland’s Student Garda Vetting Policy and Procedure.

Students participating in the course must be vetted in accordance with the provisions of this policy. Students must complete the National Vetting form(s) in an absolutely honest and truthful manner. Students must disclose any (and all) knowledge of a criminal conviction(s) or pending prosecution(s) in Ireland or outside the jurisdiction. Students who have resided outside of the Republic of Ireland for a period of 6 months or more (from the age of 18 years) shall also be required to furnish a Police Clearance Certificate from their country or countries of residence.

It is important to note that participation in or completion of this programme may be affected by subsequent disclosure/discovery. During the Garda Vetting Process, issues that may emerge which were not declared by the student on the initial vetting form, may result in immediate termination of participation on the programme. Offences that are disclosed through the process that are considered a serious risk to children and vulnerable persons, may also result in a student’s discontinuation from the programme.

The outcomes of the vetting disclosure will be shared with the placement provider. Students cannot progress to placement unless the Garda Vetting Process is complete.

Fitness to Practice

A student on the BA (Hons) in Social Care Practice must be fit to practice. The Technological University of the Shannon Midlands Midwest Student Fitness to Practice Policy will apply to all students on this programme, with special reference to the Dept of Social Sciences, Social Care Addendum. Students will be required to sign off on this, acknowledging that they have read and understood this requirement.

Attendance

The BA (Hons) in Social Care Practice programme has a mandatory attendance policy. In order to have a clear record of attendance, class attendance records are kept. Attendance during practice placements is monitored by the agency. Before progressing to the next stage of the programme, students have to work additional hours to compensate for any absences during work placements, in order to fulfill the attendance requirement. Absences must be supported by verifying documentation.

Entry Requirements

• Applicants for this part-time programme apply directly to our Admissions department rather than via the CAO.
• Applicants for the Bachelor of Arts in Applied Social Care (Part-Time) programme must enrol on year 1 and complete all modules on the programme. ECTS credit exemptions arising from Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) do not apply to this programme.

Do I have to be over 23 years old?

Yes. Unlike the Department’s level 7 social care programme for full-time students, applicants for this part-time programme must be mature (over 23 years old) at the point of applying.

Do I have to attend an interview?

Yes. All applicants are invited to attend a short interview. The interview covers the applicant’s commitment and motivation for enrolling on the programme, knowledge of the structure and content of the programme, any relevant knowledge or experience in care field.

Language Proficiency

Instruction is through the medium of English and applicants who do not have school Leaving Certificate English must provide evidence of equivalent competence by way of recognised proficiency tests in English (e.g. IELTS). Those for whom English is not their first language, but who have been resident in an English speaking country for a number of years and/or those who have completed a QQI Award, are exempt from taking a proficiency test in English.

The minimum requirement for entry to undergraduate programmes (Level 6, 7, 8) at TUS is IELTS 6.0 or equivalent internationally recognised English exam. IELTS 6.0 indicates that the learner or test taker:

• has competent level to study academic programme.
• has an effective command of the language
• can use and understand relatively complex language, particularly in familiar situations.

Modules Overview

Year 1 – Semester 1

• Developing Academic Practice (5 credits)
• Group Dynamics (5 credits)
• Contemporary Social Care Practice 1.1 (5 credits)
• An Introduction to Law (5 credits)

Year 1 – Semester 2

• Contemporary Social Care Practice 1.2 (5 credits)
• Developmental Psychology (10 credits)
• Interactional Approaches in Social Care 1 (5 credits)

Year 2 – Semester 1

• Contemporary Social Care Practice 2 (10 credits)
• Introduction to Sociology (10 credits)

Year 2 – Semester 2

• Disability: Models and Practices (5 credits)
• Family and Human Rights Law (5 credits)
• Therapeutic Skills for Social Care Practice (5 credits)
• Placement Preparation 1 (5 credits)

Year 3 – Semester 1

• Child Law (5 credits)
• Interactional Approaches in Social Care 2 – Art, Drama or Recreation (5 credits)
• Placement 1 (10 credits)

Year 3 – Semester 2

• Introduction to Research Methods for Social Care (5 credits)
• Professional Liability (5 credits)
• Disability: Promoting Inclusion (5 credits)
• Placement Preparation 2 (5 credits)

Year 4 – Semester 1

• Mental Health (5 credits)
• An Introduction to the Fundamentals of Management Theory and Practice (5 credits)
• Placement 2 (10 credits)

Year 4 – Semester 2

• Neurodiversity and Developmental Differences (5 credits)
• Contemporary Social Care Practice 3 (10 credits)
• Placement Preparation 3 (5 credits)

Year 5 – Semester 1

• Sociology and Social Policy Perspectives (5 credits)
• Interactional Approaches in Social Care 3 – Art, Drama or Recreation (5 credits)
• Placement 3 (10 credits)

What can you do after this programme?

Further Study

If you wish to pursue further study, holders of this qualification will be eligible to progress to the Bachelor of Arts (Hons) level 8 programme which will take one further year to complete.

Career Opportunities

This programme leads to a qualification which allows graduates to work as a social care worker. It will equip students to find employment in a variety of areas such as residential care, disability services, mental health services, family support services and homelessness services.

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Applied Social Care (Part-Time) – BA Program Details:

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Degree Overview:

This part-time Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Applied Social Care is a 4.5-year program designed for individuals interested in working with vulnerable individuals and groups. It is approved by CORU (Health and Social Care Regulatory Body). The program aims to equip students with the knowledge and skills to work in various social care settings, including residential care, disability services, mental health services, family support services, and homelessness services. The program emphasizes practical experience, with three practice placements totaling 800 hours integrated throughout the 4.5 years. These placements are a central feature of the student experience, providing hands-on learning and professional development.

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Outline:

The program is structured across five years, with two semesters per year. Each semester includes a variety of modules, covering theoretical and practical aspects of social care.

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Year 1:

• Semester 1:
• Developing Academic Practice and Autonomy (5 credits)
• Group Dynamics and Collaborative Practice (5 credits)
• Contemporary Social Care Practice 1.1 (5 credits)
• An Introduction to Law (5 credits)
• Semester 2:
• Contemporary Social Care Practice 1.2 (5 credits)
• Developmental Psychology (10 credits)
• Interactional Approaches to Social Care 1.2 (5 credits)

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Year 2:

• Semester 1:
• Contemporary Social Care Practice 2 (10 credits)
• Introduction to Sociology (10 credits)
• Semester 2:
• Disability: Models and Practices (5 credits)
• Family and Human Rights Law (5 credits)
• Counselling Skills (5 credits)
• Placement Preparation 1 (5 credits)

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Year 3:

• Semester 1:
• Child Law (5 credits)
• Interactional Approaches 2.2 – Art, Drama or Recreation (5 credits)
• Placement 1 (10 credits)
• Semester 2:
• Introduction to Research (5 credits)
• Professional Liability (5 credits)
• Disability: Promoting Inclusion (5 credits)
• Placement Preparation 2 (5 credits)

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Year 4:

• Semester 1:
• Mental Health (5 credits)
• Management Theory and Practice (5 credits)
• Placement 2 (10 credits)
• Semester 2:
• Atypical Child and Adolescent Development (5 credits)
• Contemporary Social Care Practice 3 (10 credits)
• Placement Preparation 3 (5 credits)

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Year 5:

• Semester 1:
• Sociology and Social Policy Perspectives (5 credits)
• Interactional Approaches 3 – Art, Drama or Recreation (5 credits)
• Placement 3 (10 credits)

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Assessment:

The program utilizes a variety of assessment methods, including:

• Assignments: Written assignments, essays, reports, and projects.
• Presentations: Oral presentations on research topics or case studies.
• Exams: Written examinations to assess theoretical knowledge.
• Placement Evaluations: Assessments of practical skills and competencies during placements.
• Reflective Journals: Personal reflections on learning experiences and professional development.

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Teaching:

The program employs a range of teaching methods, including:

• Lectures: Traditional lectures to deliver theoretical content.
• Workshops: Practical sessions to develop skills and techniques.
• Case Studies: Real-world scenarios to analyze and apply theoretical frameworks.
• Guest Speakers: Industry professionals to share their expertise and insights.

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Careers:

Upon completion of the program, graduates are eligible to work as social care workers in various settings. Potential career paths include:

• Residential Care: Working in nursing homes, assisted living facilities, or group homes.
• Mental Health Services: Working in mental health hospitals, community mental health centers, or crisis intervention services.
• Homelessness Services: Working in shelters, outreach programs, or transitional housing programs.

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Other:

• Garda Vetting: Garda Vetting is mandatory for this program, and students must comply with TUS Midland’s Student Garda Vetting Policy and Procedure.
• Fitness to Practice: Students must be fit to practice, and the Technological University of the Shannon Midlands Midwest Student Fitness to Practice Policy applies.
• Attendance: The program has a mandatory attendance policy, and absences must be supported by verifying documentation.
• Language Proficiency: Instruction is in English, and applicants who do not have school Leaving Certificate English must provide evidence of equivalent competence.

Technological University of the Shannon (TUS)

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Overview:

Technological University of the Shannon (TUS) is a multi-campus university in Ireland, offering a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across various disciplines. It is known for its focus on applied learning and innovation, fostering strong industry ties and providing excellent employment opportunities for its graduates.

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Services Offered:

TUS provides a comprehensive range of services to its students, including:

Admissions & Support:

Admissions guidance, international student support, open days, student finance information, induction programs, and student support services.

Campus Life:

Accommodation options, career and employability services, chaplaincy and pastoral care, disability supports, learning support, student counselling, student health services, sports facilities, student union, clubs and societies.

Faculty Areas:

Business, Hospitality & Humanities, Engineering, Built Environment & Informatics, Sciences, Health & Technology, and Limerick School of Art & Design.

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Student Life and Campus Experience:

TUS prioritizes a student-first approach, offering small class sizes and personalized attention. Students can expect a vibrant campus life with a range of clubs, societies, and sports activities. The university also provides comprehensive support services to ensure a positive and enriching student experience.

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Key Reasons to Study There:

Applied Learning & Innovation:

TUS emphasizes practical skills and real-world application, preparing students for successful careers.

Strong Industry Ties:

The university has strong connections with industry partners, providing students with valuable internship and employment opportunities.

Excellent Employment Opportunities:

TUS graduates are highly sought after by employers, with a strong track record of successful career outcomes.

Vibrant Campus Life:

Students can enjoy a diverse and engaging campus experience with a range of clubs, societies, and sports activities.

Comprehensive Support Services:

TUS provides a wide range of support services to ensure students' academic and personal success.

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Academic Programs:

TUS offers a wide range of academic programs, including:

Undergraduate:

Programs in various disciplines, including business, engineering, science, technology, art, and design.

Postgraduate:

Master's and PhD programs in specialized fields.

Apprenticeships:

Programs in various trades and technical fields.

Flexible & Professional Learning:

Programs designed for working professionals.

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Other:

TUS is a QS 5 Star Rated University, recognized for its high-quality education and research. The university is also actively involved in research and development, with a focus on areas of national and global importance.