Bachelor in Sociology & Social Policy

Introduction

The degree in Sociology and Social Policy combines the study of social theory, social policy and social research. The aim of the programme is to give students a thorough training in the systematic study of society and its social problems. Sociology and Social Policy are closely inter-related and have in common a questioning of everyday perspectives and explanations. They also share a range of particular research methods.

For whom is the B.A. in Sociology & Social Policy designed?

This degree is managed jointly by the School of Social Work & Social Policy and School of Social Sciences & Philosophy. It combines academic and vocational elements. It is particularly relevant to those wishing to pursue a career in management, planning and evaluation within the social services field, as well as to those with a general interest in society and social policy.

Two groups of students are admitted within an annual quota of approximately 20 places:

• CAO: approximately 20 school leavers; who reach the required points needed for entry
• Mature Students Scheme: approximately 7 mature applicants selected by interview.

Course Structure and Content

Over the four years, students take courses in general social science disciplines such as economics and politics, and specialist courses in areas such as family policy, crime and poverty. The first two years of the course are more general and foundational in nature, while the latter two are more focused on specialist courses in sociology and social policy.

Year One: Introductions to: Economic Policy, Sociology, Politics, Statistics, Social Policy, Optional courses in a Language (French or German).

Year Two: Social Policy, Social Research, Irish Economic Policy, European Society and Politics, and one elective course.

Year Three: Two or three social policy courses from: Family and Child Care Policy and Crime and Social Policy, The Modern Welfare State; in addition, some sociology or economics courses from a wide range of options such as: Social Theory, Globalisation, Researching Society, Economics of Less Developed Countries.

Year Four: Two social policy courses from: Income Distribution, Mental Health and Addiction, Contemporary Issues in Social Policy; two sociology courses are also chosen from a broad range of courses, for example: Economics Sociology of Europe, Sociology of Gender, Discourse Analysis. In this final year a dissertation (which may be a major or minor one) must also be submitted.

Teaching and assessment

Teaching takes place in lectures, seminars, and project groups. Assessment methods vary according to subject and course; both examination and continuous assessment are used.

Admission

• School leavers identify BA (Sociology & Social Policy) - TR 083) on their CAO application form.
• Mature Student applicants apply to the Admissions Office, Trinity College,by the end of January and also apply through the CAO.

For further information please contact

School of Social Work and Social Policy
Course Coordinator - Judy O'Shea

Tel: +353-1-896 3708
Email: socialwork.socialpolicy@tcd.ie or

School of Social Science and Philosophy
Tel: +353-1-896 1871
Email: socsec@tcd.ie