Applied Social Studies in Social Care (Add-on) – BA (Hons)

Course Overview

This add-on Level 8 course encourages and promotes the professional and personal development of students is available on a full-time and part-time basis.

Many of the applicants undertake this programme because they are keen to progress to further study at Masters level (Level 9). This programme is the ideal bridge. This degree will equip you with advanced levels of knowledge and skills appropriate to employment in the sector. It will enhance your ability to conceptualise and draw conclusions based on a rigorous, analytical assessment of situations, and communicate effectively as part of a team. You will be able to discriminate between alternative management strategies and practices in social care work.

You will also obtain a deeper understanding of your own goals and priorities, and a fuller awareness of your strengths, limitations and potential, through self-assessment, analysis and critical reflection. You will learn the ability to assume key roles in the management, administration, development and delivery of quality care services across a wide range of disciplines.

The full-time course runs over one year while the part-time course runs over two years. Part time students will attend classes 2 days per week.

Entry Requirements

• Bachelor of Arts in Applied Social Studies Level 7 or an equivalent Level 7 qualification.

Module Overview

Year 1 – Semester 1

• Applied Research Project (10 credits)
  • The module aims to teach the student how to conduct ethical research in the social care area, explore a particular theme and produce new cutting edge knowledge and insight in social care theory and practice.
• Contemporary Social Care Practice 4.1 (5 credits)
  • The module provide students with the ability to critically evaluate care for the main groups in social care and to examine family work models that support individuals within their family and community.
• Contemporary Social Policy (5 credits)
  • Over the course of this module students will learn about Social Policy as a discipline of study, research, practice, analysis and social policy making by governments.
• Integrated Creative and Recreation Approaches in Social Care 4.1 (5 credits)
  • Students will develop the skills of co-production throughout the module, incorporating creative art and/or drama and/or recreational approaches, to empower the social care groups through participative collaboration and co-production.
• Community Development Practice (Elective, 5 credits)
  • The module will provide students with the knowledge and skills necessary to effectively run community development projects in a variety of settings.
• Therapeutic Interventions within Social Care Contexts (Elective, 5 credits)
  • This module provides students with theoretical knowledge of some models of counselling and psychotherapy most relevant to the field of social care.

Year 1 – Semester 2

• Contemporary Social Care Practice 4.2 (5 credits)
  • This module will allow students to critically discuss issues pertinent to advanced child protection and mandatory reporting, domestic violence and develop key skills required to apply this knowledge in practice.
• Applied Psychology in Social Care (10 credits)
  • This module provides students with an in-depth, advanced level understanding of diverse concepts of development across the lifespan such as trauma and the psychology of ageing.
• Professional Management and Development for Social Care Practice (10 credits)
  • This module will enable students to identify the core competencies and skills required for management and leadership roles in an evolving social care landscape.
• Sociology of Mental Health and Illness (Elective, 5 credits)
  • This module provides students with an understanding of the social and cultural contexts of mental health and illness.
• Youth and Substance Use (Elective, 5 credits)
  • This module will provide students with an opportunity to advance their knowledge and skills to work effectively with young people and substance use.
• Professional Practice with Older People 4.2 (Elective, 5 credits)
  • The aim of this module is to provide students with critical understanding of old age.

What can you do after this programme?

Career Opportunities

This course leads to a qualification which allows graduates to work as a professional social care worker. It will equip students to find employment with different service users in a variety of care settings, including residential child care, disability sector, youth community and family support services, people who are homeless, members of the travelling community, people who are drug or alcohol dependent, and older people.

Further Study

As a graduate of this programme, you will be eligible to progress to postgraduate programmes such as the MA in Child and Youth Studies at the TUS or an alternative postgraduate programme in another university. It is also a recognised stepping stone and qualification to undertake further study to pursue a career as a social worker.

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.