Program Overview

Program Overview

The Social Policy program at Trinity College Dublin is a four-year, full-time course that offers students a comprehensive understanding of social policy and its applications. The program is designed to equip students with the knowledge, skills, and competencies necessary to analyze and address complex social issues.

Program Details

• The program is a Joint Honours Bachelor Degree (NFQ Level 8) with 28 places available.
• The CAO points required for admission range from 494 to 625.
• The program is studied as a Joint Honours subject with one of the following options: Economics, Political Science, Sociology, or Modern Language (French, Italian, German, Russian).

Course Structure

The program consists of four years of study, with the first year introducing students to social policy concepts and skills-based modules. The second year places greater emphasis on social policy issues, with modules such as Policy Issues in Human Services, Global Health Policy, and Introducing Research Methods for Social Policy.

Third and Fourth Years

In the third year, students can choose from a range of modules, including Global Social Policy, Youth and Society, Aging and Intergenerational Relations, and Policy Issues in Human Services. The fourth year offers modules such as Eco-Social Policy, Disability and Global Human Rights, Regulating Reproductive Bodies, and a Research Methods for Capstone module.

Study Abroad Opportunities

Students have the opportunity to study abroad in their third year at prestigious universities in Europe through the Erasmus program or through non-EU international exchanges.

Admission Requirements

• English language requirements: All applicants must provide official evidence of proficiency in the English language, with a minimum requirement of Band B (Standard Entry).
• Other requirements: Students must meet the general admission requirements of Trinity College Dublin.

Career Opportunities

Graduates of the Social Policy program at Trinity College Dublin have secured employment in a range of fields, including national and international governments, civil society organizations, governmental and non-governmental think tanks, private sector organizations, and community and social care services.

Research Areas

The program covers a range of research areas, including social policy, contemporary social issues, and how policy works. Students will have the opportunity to engage with a wide range of policy actors and to identify and reduce inequalities in access to services experienced by social groups.

Skills and Competencies

The program aims to equip students with a range of highly transferable skills, including critical analysis, problem-solving, and communication. Students will also develop competencies in research methods, policy analysis, and program evaluation.

Assessment

Assessment is by a combination of continuous assessment, written submissions, class presentations, examinations, and real-world relevant assignments, such as policy case studies or ministerial briefings. The final year Capstone project provides students with an opportunity to showcase their knowledge, skills, and competencies acquired over the course of their undergraduate study.