Computational Social Science

The world is changing rapidly due to the rise of Artificial Intelligence (AI), large language models (LLMs), and digital technologies. These developments are reshaping how we interact, communicate, and make decisions. We are more interconnected than ever, generating vast digital footprints that provide unprecedented opportunities for understanding human behaviour.

The BSc in Computational Social Science equips you with the skills to analyse and interpret these digital traces using AI-driven techniques, big data analytics, computer simulations, and social network analysis. You will explore how LLMs, machine learning, and predictive modelling can uncover patterns in online interactions, political movements, and economic trends. If you are excited about using cutting-edge AI tools to study and influence the future of our digital society, this course is for you.

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The BSc degree in Computational Social Science is leading the way in this field of study in Europe and beyond. This course offers a unique combination of training in both computational and social science subjects.

As a student, you will have the opportunity to study two social science subjects out of Sociology, Politics, Geography or Economics, as well as a range of modules which teach you how to analyze human social behavior using data science, machine learning, social simulation, and mathematical modeling techniques. These skills are highly valued in today’s competitive job market.

First Year

The first year includes core modules in: Computational Social Science • Programming • Statistical Modelling & Linear Algebra. In addition, students choose three modules each in two social science subjects: Sociology • Politics • Economics • Geography • Elective module

Second Year

The second year includes further training in Applied and Advanced Computational Social Science methods, as well as courses in Probability Theory • Programming • Calculus and modules in your two social sciences subjects, as well as options from a range of other subjects.

Third Year

The third year provides the opportunity for students to apply for a trimester abroad at another leading university in Computational Social Science and an internship with an industry partner.

Fourth Year

The fourth year includes more modules on data analysis in the social sciences, social dynamics and a research project that will strengthen and consolidate learning in key areas of Computational Social Science.

Assessment

Students usually attend lectures and participate in seminar discussions and lab tutorials. Assessment is based on assignments throughout the trimester, small group work, individual reports, traditional exams and other forms of assessment.

Internship Opportunities

In third year, students can apply for an optional paid internship for one trimester in a range of organisations in the public and private sector, which help to inform future career decisions through real-world experience.

During the third year, trimester-long study opportunities will be offered in a number of international partner universities.

This course is designed to prepare students for employment opportunities in the growing field of social data science. You will develop expertise in curating and analysing social big data and applying computational methods such as simulation, machine learning, and Large Language Models to real-world social challenges. These skills are increasingly essential for policy testing, development, and decision-making in public and private sectors.

Graduates of this course can pursue careers in a wide range of industries, including technology, finance, insurance, healthcare, media, telecommunications, consulting, and e-commerce. Opportunities also exist in sectors such as transport, logistics, urban planning, environmental science, cybersecurity, defence, and education. The public sector, NGOs, and international organisations are seeking professionals who can harness and critically evaluate AI and data-driven insights to address social and economic issues.

Graduates may also choose to continue their studies in areas such as Social Data Science, Social Sciences, Mathematics and Statistics, Computer Science and Informatics, and other interdisciplinary programmes.

• Level 5/6 QQI-FET
• Open Learning Entry Route
• Mature Entry Route
• DARE Entry Route
• HEAR Entry Route
• University Access

UCD School of Politics and International Relations 

Assoc. Professor Dr Stefan Müller

stefan.mueller@ucd.ie

The UCD College of Social Sciences and Law is a broad and diverse, but connected community of students and faculty who are committed to creating a more sustainable and equitable future for all. We work together in a culture of collaboration to support each other to thrive and achieve our full potential, in service of broader societal goals. Through our undergraduate and graduate education, research and external engagement, we aim to ensure that our students, faculty and staff thrive and contribute to sustainable well-being on our campus, in Ireland and across the wider world. Our faculty are globally recognized experts in their fields, advancing knowledge through research, engaging with government, business and civil society to enhance our world, and using their knowledge to design and offer cutting-edge education within their disciplines and across the disciplines of Archaeology, Economics, Geography, Information & Communication Studies, Philosophy, Politics & International Relations, Psychology, Social Policy Social Work & Social Justice, and Sociology. Our ambition is that our students will debate and engage with the greatest societal challenges of our time by becoming informed citizens who will play a leading role in shaping societies around the globe toward more sustainable futures.  

The Social Sciences degrees at UCD incorporate a diverse range of formal and informal learning opportunities for students, delivered by excellent researchers who are leading their fields globally, and embedding the UN’s sustainable development goals (SDG’s) in their educational activities where appropriate.

BSc Computational Social Science

Computational Social Sciences students learn about a field that harnesses the power of big data, computer simulations, machine learning and social network analysis to gain insights into social phenomena and individual behaviour. The unique combination of computational skills and training in social sciences subjects such as Sociology, Politics, Economics and Geography help students to positively contribute to addressing many of today’s global challenges including reducing inequalities and decent work and economic growth. 

• Quality Education (SDG 4)
• Decent work and economic growth (SDG 8)
• Industry, innovation and infrastructure (SDG 9)
• Reduce Inequalities (SDG 10)
• Sustainable Cities and Communities (SDG 11)

Non-EU Undergraduate Fee information can be found here.

UCD offers a number of competitive undergraduate scholarships for full-time, self-funding international students, holding an offer of a place on a UCD undergraduate degree programme. For information on Undergraduate Scholarships, please see the UCD International Scholarships webpage.

Recommendation:
In order to study this degree we strongly recommend that you have the equivalent of A Level C or IB HL 5 in mathematics.