Year 1 – Applied Social Studies Level 5M2181

Year 2 – Applied Social Studies Level 6 6M2218

This is a two year Social Studies QQI Level 6 course which examines the theory and practice of social studies.  The wide range of modules offered enables students to gain a critical awareness of the way in which society works and provides the opportunity to investigate contemporary social issues and problems.  Modules encompass a mix of psychology, sociology and practice-based subjects.

Learners are also enabled to improve their communication skills, self-awareness, critical reflection and interpersonal skills, all of which are central to working in the social sector.  Students will engage in supervised work experience over the two years which provides practical knowledge, skills and competence for the field of social studies.

Course Content:

Year 1

• Social Studies
• Intercultural Studies
• Psychology
• Equality & Disability
• Young People & Society
• Personal Effectiveness
• Communications
• Work Experience

Year 2

• Rehabilitation Practice
• Disability Awareness
• Person-Centered Planning
• Work Experience
• Personal and Professional Development
• Mental Health Awareness
• Team Leadership
• Boundary Management

Additional Training

First Aid Training

Entry Requirements

1st year (QQI Level 5)

Students are expected to have an academic ability which will allow them to engage in a meaningful way with a QQI Level 5 course of this type. This may include:

• A QQI Level 4 qualification
• A minimum of 5 Pass grades in the Leaving Cert, one of which should be a 06 grade in Leaving Cert English
• An overall Merit Grade in LCA.
• Exceptions may be made for mature students returning to education. However, a basic level of IT skills is required, for e.g., familiarity with Microsoft Word.

2nd year (QQI Level 6)

• Full QQI Level 5 Award in Applied Social Studies or its equivalent

Please Note: All students undertaking professional practice placements under both the level 5 and level 6 years, are required to meet the conditions of our Fitness to Practice policy along with statutory Garda Vetting requirements

Certification

Year 1: Applied Social Studies Level 5M2181

Year 2: Applied Social Studies Level 6 6M2218

Duration

2 Years

College Links/Progression:

Graduates from this course may gain entry to Degree Programmes in a number of Institutes of Technology with related courses through the Higher Education Links Scheme.

Career Opportunities

Following progression onto Higher Education, previous graduates of the course have gone onto work in a variety of careers including Youth and community work, working with young offenders, the probation service, working with disadvantaged children, working with the physically or intellectually disabled, the homeless, the elderly, people with drug/alcohol dependency, asylum seekers/refugees, social work etc.

Work Placement links

Work placement is a key component of the course. Students engage in  placements throughout the year ensuring they have an opportunity to create links between theory and practice. Work placements range from youth services, disability services, addiction services and homeless services to name but a few.

Course Charges

Year 1: €50
Year 2: €50

Applicants in receipt of a Social Welfare payment will keep their payment whilst studying on the course under the Back to Education Allowance scheme.