Programme Overview:
- Duration:
- 1 Years
- Attendance:
- Full Time
- Mode of Delivery:
- Face-to-Face
- Next Intake:
- 2023/2024 September
- Contact Name:
- Dominic Shellard
- Contact Number:
- +353 (0)1716 8682
- Fees:
- Fee Information
The Higher Diploma in Social Policy can be used as a transition course for those who need to fulfil the Social Policy credit requirements for access to postgraduate training in Social Work. Additionally it provides a background in Social Policy for students interested in careers in Social Policy or Public Policy.
Curricular information is subject to change
Full Time option suitable for:
Domestic(EEA) applicants: Yes
International (Non EEA) applicants currently residing outside of the EEA Region. Yes
The Higher Diploma in Social Policy is a level 8 transition course providing a foundation in Social Policy for graduates of other disciplines. On completion of the course students will have developed an understanding of contemporary social issues and critical policy analysis. Social policy studies the roots of social inequalities, poverty, social justice, crime and social order and social risks in the workplace and how welfare programmes, political movements and cultural values shape them. Students will gain applied knowledge in the reasons for social policy, the complex nature of policy making, and the social consequences of welfare interventions. We will help students develop a broad toolkit of methodological approaches for social inquiry and work practice. The degree provides a strong foundation for both postgraduate study, in particular social work, and a wide range of careers in government, voluntary and community sector, policy advocacy and activism, media and private sector organisations.
We value multidisciplinary exploration, understanding and critical reflection on inequality, poverty, social justice, crime and a wide range of social policies. We encourage our students to be critical thinkers, to develop an awareness of ethical issues, and to engage with civil society to achieve greater equality and well-being in societies.
Through individual and group learning, social policy students are provided with a learning environment that supports the development of reflective and analytical skills. Students will learn to evaluate evidence and identify solutions to key issues of social justice, social work and welfare. We teach how to communicate effectively to various audiences. Within a diverse community of lecturers and students an open and pluralistic discussion culture is nurtured and supported.
We apply a variety of teaching and learning methods. A combination of lectures and seminars are the primary teaching method, delivered by dedicated educators, practitioners and experts in their field. In addition, we use active learning approaches, such as panel debates, data lab work, policy evaluations, poster sessions, field work and group work. Face to face interaction between students, lecturers and tutors is supported by online tools.
HDip Social Policy (W050) Full Time
EU fee per year - € 7330
nonEU fee per year - € 14350
***Fees are subject to change
Tuition fee information is available on the UCD Fees website.
The following entry routes are available:
* Courses will remain open until such time as all places have been filled, therefore early application is advised