COURSE CURRICULUM

The BA in Applied Social Care at SETU Waterford is structured over three years, blending theoretical study with practical experience to prepare students for professional careers in social care. In Year 1, students develop foundational knowledge and skills through modules such as Key Academic Skills for Social Care, Introduction to Social Policy, Applied Social Care 1 and 2, Disability, Vulnerable Youth in Contemporary Ireland, Social Care Law, Lifespan Developmental Psychology, and Personal and Professional Development integrated with creative and cultural practices. Year 2 builds on this foundation, combining advanced applied social care modules with supervised practice placements, portfolios, and studies in Sociology of Ireland, Social Care Law 2, Health and Well-being, and Inequalities and Disadvantage in Irish Social Policy, alongside continued personal and professional development. The third year focuses on consolidating professional competence and research skills, offering modules such as Sociology for Social Care Work, Social Psychology, Applied Social Care 5, Research Skills for Social Care, Citizenship and Rights in Irish Social Policy, and Applied Personal and Professional Development, complemented by a second practice placement and portfolio. This combination of classroom learning and hands-on experience ensures graduates are well-equipped to work ethically and effectively with vulnerable individuals and groups, understanding social policy, law, and psychological principles, while gaining the practical skills necessary to make a meaningful impact in the social care sector.