Social Justice

The subject of Social Justice draws on a range of academic disciplines in order to advance understanding of issues such as inequality, racism, discrimination and human rights abuses. It will appeal to those who would like to acquire the knowledge and skills to understand and challenge injustice and help bring about social change.

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Undergraduate modules in Social Justice address themes such as global justice; gender and sexuality; human rights; inequality in Irish society; childhood inequality; racism and anti-racism; social justice movements; political economy; and discrimination. During your four-year course, you will advance your knowledge about the key social issues of the 21st century, while developing your skills in relation to critical thinking, analysis, research, problem-solving and communication. An emphasis on participatory learning means that your studies will take place within a supportive and stimulating environment, where you will have the opportunity to engage with like-minded people who share your interest in social justice.

First Year

In first year, you will undertake four foundational modules in Social Justice: Social Justice Perspectives • Exploring Gender • Global Justice • Inequality & Social Justice in Irish Society

Second Year

In second year, the social justice modules will develop your knowledge of racism and anti-racism, political economy, gender, power and politics, as well as your understanding of human rights and social justice.

Third Year

In third year, you can choose to study the ‘experiential’ modules ‘Social Justice & the City’ and ‘Social Justice Movements’ and select from a range of optional modules on key social justice issues. Students can apply to study abroad in year three or undertake an internship.

Fourth Year

Fourth year provides the opportunity for you to enhance and apply your research skills. Students will also have an opportunity to build on their knowledge by choosing from a range of modules addressing issues such as gender, war and violence; childhood and global justice; and inequality in the labour market.

Assessment

A variety of assessment methods are used throughout the Social Justice course, including essays, reports, presentations, reflective writing, problem-based learning, projects, examinations and critical commentaries.

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.

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Study abroad for a trimester or a year in third year. Destinations include the US, Australia, China, Canada.

At the end of their four-year course, graduates of Social Justice have acquired knowledge and skills relevant to a range of fields of study and employment, including in-depth knowledge about the most pressing societal and global challenges of our time and advanced critical, analytical and communications skills. The degree will provide a strong foundation for careers in: research, policy and advocacy in national and international non-governmental organisations; and public sector agencies.

Relevant graduate study programmes include: Equality Studies • Gender Studies • Public Policy • Human Rights • International Development.

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

UCD School of Social Policy, Social Work and Social Justice
sp-sw-sj@ucd.ie

By joining the UCD College of Arts and Humanities you will be part of a vibrant community of students and faculty who are committed to creating a more sustainable, just and equitable future. Our courses are designed to equip students with the best education in their chosen arts and humanities subjects. Our research and teaching and learning connect with many of the SDGs, most notably:

• SDG 4: Quality Education -Promotes inclusive and equitable quality education and lifelong learning opportunities for all.

• SDG 5: Gender Equality - Advances gender equality by addressing social norms, histories, and cultural practices that contribute to gender disparities.

• SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities - Encourages understanding and action against social, economic, and political inequalities.

• SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities - Enhances cultural understanding and heritage preservation, fostering sustainable communities.

• SDG 16: Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions - Promotes peace, justice, and strong institutions through critical inquiry into human rights, ethics, and governance.

• SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals - Encourages global partnerships and collaboration by fostering international understanding and dialogue.

Our programmes equip students with critical thinking, empathy, and cultural awareness, essential for addressing complex global challenges.