Welfare & Justice

You will develop an understanding of key issues in society, the relationship between theory and research, and a variety of research designs and processes: qualitative, quantitative and comparative designs. You will also acquire conceptual and practical skills necessary to evaluate policies, while learning how to assess different approaches to managing a team or organisation and finding solutions to simulated events.



A new flagship programme unique in the Republic in combining these three academic disciplines.



Experienced Interdisciplinary faculty.

Proven career track record

Flexible learning

Stage 1 Core Modules

SPOL40870 Grief, Loss and Adult Services Autumn 5

SPOL40900 Child and Family Social Work 1 Autumn 5

SPOL41020 Data & Methods for Policy Analysis Autumn 10

GS40030 Gender, Inequality and Public Policy Spring 10

SPOL41030 Dissertation Summer 30



Stage 1 Options - A) Min 3 of:

30 credits from:

EQUL40180 Sociology of Inequality Autumn 10

EQUL40310 Masculinities, Gender and Equality Autumn 10

EQUL40390 Critical Political Economy Autumn 10

SPOL40470 Comparing Healthcare Systems Autumn 10

SPOL41060 Public Administration & Policy Autumn 10

SPOL40440 Housing and Social Cohesion Spring 10

SPOL40450 Evidence-Based Policy Making Spring 10

If English is not your first language, unless you have done your primary degree through English in an English speaking country, an English language qualification is required for all programmes.



To apply for this programme you will need:



A minimum of a 2.2 Honours in primary degree in an appropriate field. These include Humanities, Social Sciences or Social Policy or Social Work.



Transcripts from your primary degree.



A personal statement of around 4-500 words explaining why you would like to receive an offer of a place on this programme. This should include a brief account of any relevant professional experience.



Names and contact details for two referees.

You may be eligible for Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL), as UCD recognises formal, informal, and/or experiential learning. RPL may be awarded to gain Admission and/or credit exemptions on a programme. Please visit the UCD Registry RPL web page for further information. Any exceptions are also listed on this webpage. https://www.ucd.ie/registry/prospectivestudents/admissions/rpl/

Apply online.



Who Should Apply?

Full Time option suitable for:

Domestic(EEA) applicants: Yes

International (Non EU) applicants: Yes



The MSocSc in Social Work, Welfare and Justice is designed for practising social workers interested in refining their analytical and management skills through post qualifying studies, and for those interested in advanced careers in government, nonprofit and other human service areas. This master’s programme will prepare you to implement positive change in your community and beyond, and provide you with the credentials employers often look for when filling administrative and other leadership positions.

1 year, full-time.

W585 Welfare & Justice Master of Social Science Full-Time Commencing September 2026 Graduate Taught