Social Science - Rights & Social Policy
The MSocSc (Rights & Social Policy) provides advanced study in key and often challenging issues facingsocial policy today. It provides anopportunity for critical study in the application of social policy theory and methodology to policy and practice.
The programme aims to provide students with advanced critical, analytical and research skills in selected substantive areas of social policy, and in the shaping of policy, in contemporary Ireland and more widely. In particular the emphasis is on the interconnections between the themes of rights, recognition and redistribution. Currently, the programme includes taught modules on governance, equality, ageing and criminal justice.
The MSocSc (Rights & Social Policy) will provide graduates with: advanced knowledge in critical social policy theory, studies and perspectives; advanced skills in relation to social policy analysis; high levels of competence in social policy research methods; and a thorough grounded understanding in areas of rights, governance, equality, ageing and criminal justice issues. Graduates will develop and demonstrate proficiency by completing a supervised research dissertation in a chosen area of interest.
Subjects taught
The primary difference between the Full-time and Part-time options is that the dissertation is undertaken in Year 2 of the Part-time option.
Entry requirements
Candidates are required to have: A Bachelor of Social Science (Honours) degree with an overall mark of at least 55% Or a Bachelor of Arts (Applied Social Studies) (Honours) degree with an overall mark of at least 55% Or an Honours degree in a related discipline with an overall mark of at least 55%. Candidates meeting the above criteria will be interviewed. Applicants must have a recognised primary degree which is considered equivalent to Irish university primary degree level.
Minimum English language requirements:
IELTS: 6.5 minimum overall score
TOEFL (Paper based test): 585
TOEFL (Internet based test): 95
PTE (Pearson): 62
National University of Ireland Maynooth's TOEFL code is 8850
Application dates
All applications should be made through the PAC system.
Closing Date: 30 June 2021
Duration
1 year full-time, 2 years part-time
The primary difference between the Full-time and Part-time options is that the dissertation is undertaken in Year 2 of the Part-time option.
Post Course Info
Future career prospects include pursuits in policy analysis and social research organisations, employment in policy development in relevant branches of government, research and policy support roles in third sector organisations that seek to shape policy by engaging with policymaking processes.