The Higher Diploma in Social Policy (online) is a conversion course giving a foundation in the field of social policy for graduates who do not hold a social science degree. It can be studied full-time over one year or part-time over two years.
The course is delivered online. It provides a flexible approach to study for students with employment and/or care responsibilities; as well as those restricted geographically.
The course sets social policy in the context of the social sciences. The course is particularly relevant to those who want to apply for professional postgraduate courses in social work, e.g. Master of Social Work.
Students will study core modules on topics including the evolution of the welfare state, poverty, social exclusion, social policy, and social analysis. Students will be introduced to critical areas of study within the field of social policy including:
housing and homelessness;
social professions and social work;
social groups and social rights;
social research and ethics;
identity and self;
political and economic rights
Students will also undertake a supervised 10,000 word, social research project on a social policy topic of the student's choice (in consultation with his/her supervisor). This will be a desk-based piece of research, involving an exploration of policy and literature.
Why Choose This Course
This Higher Diploma in Social Policy (Online) is a flexible, online programme that accounts for the busy schedules of working students. It allows students to engage with the course material when it suits them. For an online programme, the Higher Diploma in Social Policy (online) offers a great deal of choice to students.
The School of Applied Social Studies is dedicate to providing high quality teaching and learning resources. The academics involved in teaching on the programme have extensive research experience in the discipline of social policy. There is a strong commitment to support students in their study and students can expect ongoing support from staff throughout the year.
The Higher Diploma in Social Policy (online) gives students a foundation in the study of the welfare state and the social services. It is a conversion course for those who don't hold a social science degree, but wish to apply for the Master of Social Work course. The course also prepares students for entry to other postgraduate courses in the School of Applied Social Studies, UCC, e.g. social policy, planning, youth and community work, social services administration and child care.