COURSE CURRICULUM

The Applied Social Studies in Social Care BA prepares students for a professional career supporting and advocating for vulnerable individuals and groups in society. The program focuses on developing the knowledge, practical skills, ethical awareness, and professional competencies needed for effective social care practice. Students study sociology, psychology, law, child protection, disability studies, mental health, human rights, management, and therapeutic approaches while learning how to build supportive relationships with service users. The course emphasises reflective practice, communication, teamwork, group dynamics, and evidence-based decision making. Learners gain an understanding of social care legislation, professional responsibility, inclusion, neurodiversity, developmental psychology, and social policy perspectives relevant to practice in Ireland. Creative and interactional approaches such as art, drama, and recreation are also explored as therapeutic tools within social care settings. A major feature of the program is professional placement, with two supervised placements totalling 800 hours that allow students to connect theory with real-world practice in social care environments. Students are supported throughout placement preparation and professional development to meet CORU standards and regulatory requirements. Graduates are equipped to work confidently and ethically with children, young people, adults, families, and communities across a wide range of social care services and support settings.