| Program start date | Application deadline |
| 2024-09-01 | - |
Program Overview
Manage Cookies
" alt="" />
An Animated Introduction to Social Science
Entry Points (2022) 348
Course Overview
Do you see yourself at the forefront of tackling some of the most crucial and pressing social, ecological and economic issues of our times? Do you regard yourself as ambitious and driven, with a strong disposition towards leadership, innovation and thinking and acting differently about local, national and global issues? Then the contemporary and innovative BSc (Social Sciences) Degree programme is for you!
The BSc (Social Science) programme is aimed at motivated school leavers and mature students who have a strong penchant for the study of some of the most fundamental issues and concerns for modern society and the environment. The programme strongly focuses on the applied nature of the Social Sciences and will equip students with practical research skills, in addition to focussing on career development and readiness, and further educational opportunities. There is an international fieldtrip in year two, a significant workplace internship in year three, and dissertation or research project component in year four, giving students practical real-world experience and knowledge of working in areas of Social Scientific inquiry. The growth in interdisciplinary study and research is building crucial knowledge and supporting the national capacity to respond to complex societal challenges by providing new solutions that cannot be provided by one discipline alone. This pioneering interdisciplinary Social Sciences degree programme draws on key strengths of Schools and Disciplines right across the College of Arts, university-wide Research Institutes and Centres, and innovation and entrepreneurial programs right across the University. Supporting and advocating the value and need for social scientific research to key decision-makers and policy designers, in addition to community activism and advocacy, forms an intrinsic part of the Social Sciences programme ethos.
Watch our introductory video from our May 2021 Virtual Open Day
Program Outline
Course Outline
YEAR ONE
Introducing the Social Sciences Introduction to Sociology and Political Science Principles of Geography Digital Citizenship Introduction to Economic and Social Policy Digital Skills for the Social Sciences.YEAR TWO
In addition to further developing their critical understanding of key areas of the social sciences, students will focus on problem-centred learning and will undertake research methods courses aimed at tackling current and future societal challenges and learn how to use key social scientific technology tools. Year Two will also entail an international fieldtrip in semester two.YEAR THREE
A choice of modules in semester one will be followed by a work-based internship in semester two (January–May). The programme’s dedicated placement team will coordinate and attempt to place each individual student with their chosen organisation, agency, business sector or industry thus tailoring their training and experience to meet the students preferred career pathway. Students will also undertake a module in career development and readiness.YEAR FOUR
Students will again select modules in year fur that align to their preferred career or further educational pathway, and students will also be paired with an academic supervisor to design, develop and undertake a research project, with a strong focus on publishing their finished work. The four recommended study pathways in this final year are: • Environmental Social Studies • Culture, Creativity and Entrepreneurship • Politics, Society and Identity • Communities, Engagement and Development.Curriculum Information
Curriculum information relates to the current academic year (in most cases).
Course and module offerings and details may be subject to change.
Glossary of Terms
Credits
You must earn a defined number of credits (aka ECTS) to complete each year of your course. You do this by taking all of its required modules as well as the correct number of optional modules to obtain that year's total number of credits.
Module
An examinable portion of a subject or course, for which you attend lectures and/or tutorials and carry out assignments. E.g. Algebra and Calculus could be modules within the subject Mathematics. Each module has a unique module code eg. MA140.
Subject
Some courses allow you to choose subjects, where related modules are grouped together. Subjects have their own required number of credits, so you must take all that subject's required modules and may also need to obtain the remainder of the subject's total credits by choosing from its available optional modules.
Optional
A module you may choose to study.
Required
A module that you must study if you choose this course (or subject).
Required Core Subject
A subject you must study because it's integral to that course.
Semester
Most courses have 2 semesters (aka terms) per year, so a three-year course will have six semesters in total. For clarity, this page will refer to the first semester of year 2 as 'Semester 3'.
Year 1 (60 Credits)
RequiredSP1125:
Introduction to Politics- 5 Credits - Semester 1
Required
SP1120:
Practicing Politics- 5 Credits - Semester 1
Required
EC1110:
Introduction to Economic Policy- 5 Credits - Semester 1
Required
TI1100:
Geography in Practice- 10 Credits - Semester 1
Required
TI150:
Principles of Human Geography- 5 Credits - Semester 1
Required
BSS1100:
Digital Citizenship- 5 Credits - Semester 1
Required
BSS1101:
Introduction to the Study of the Social Sciences- 5 Credits - Semester 1
Required
SP1126:
Introduction to Sociology- 5 Credits - Semester 2
Required
SP1121:
Practicing Sociology- 5 Credits - Semester 2
Required
TI151:
Principles of Physical Geography- 5 Credits - Semester 2
Required
BSS1102:
Digital Skills for the Social Sciences- 5 Credits - Semester 2
Year 2 (60 Credits)
OptionalSP2116:
Sociology of Health- 5 Credits - Semester 3
Required
SP235:
Social Issues and Policy Responses- 5 Credits - Semester 3
Required
SP216.I:
European Politics- 5 Credits - Semester 3
Required
TI2102:
Introduction To GIS- 10 Credits - Semester 3
Required
TI251:
Theory & Practice in Geography I- 5 Credits - Semester 3
Required
BSS2103:
Introduction to Sustainability 1- 5 Credits - Semester 3
Required
TI229:
Political & Cutural Geography: Identity, Race & the Nation- 5 Credits - Semester 3
Optional
SP212:
Classical Social Thought- 5 Credits - Semester 4
Optional
SP215.II:
Modern Political Thought- 5 Credits - Semester 4
Required
BSS2101:
Cooperative Learning and Group Research Methods- 10 Credits - Semester 4
Required
TI252:
Theory & Practice in Geography II- 5 Credits - Semester 4
Required
SP220:
Methods For Social And Political Science- 5 Credits - Semester 4
Year 3 (60 Credits)
OptionalTI254:
Space, Place and the Irish Landscape- 5 Credits - Semester 5
Optional
EC267:
Economics of Public and Social Policy- 5 Credits - Semester 5
Optional
TI235:
Biogeography- 5 Credits - Semester 5
Optional
SP404:
Development And Change- 5 Credits - Semester 5
Optional
TI216:
Aimsir Agus Aeraid/ Weather And Climate- 5 Credits - Semester 5
Optional
SP3195:
Equality, Diversity and Collective Action- 5 Credits - Semester 5
Required
BSS3100:
Professional Skills and Pathways for Social Scientists- 10 Credits - Semester 5
Required
MG3113:
Megatrends- 5 Credits - Semester 5
Optional
BSS3101:
Work Placement for Social Scientists- 30 Credits - Semester 6
Optional
BSS3103:
Research Placement for Social Scientists- 30 Credits - Semester 6
Optional
BSS3102:
International Work Placement for Social Scientists- 30 Credits - Semester 6
Optional
BSS3105:
Global Engagement Module- 5 Credits - Semester 6
Year 4 (60 Credits)
OptionalTI369:
Geographical Perspectives on Rural Change- 5 Credits - Semester 7
Optional
SP219:
Political Sociology- 5 Credits - Semester 7
Optional
TI3113:
Long-term Environmental Change- 5 Credits - Semester 7
Optional
TI326:
War & Representation: Spaces & Politics of the Media- 5 Credits - Semester 7
Optional
TI3127:
Critical Geographies of Children- 5 Credits - Semester 7
Optional
SP3197:
Thinking Politically: The Power of Ideas- 5 Credits - Semester 7
Required
TI335:
Research Project Design & Development- 5 Credits - Semester 7
Optional
SP3141:
Socially-Engaged Art and Relations of Power- 5 Credits - Semester 8
Optional
SP305:
Comparative Public Policy- 5 Credits - Semester 8
Optional
SP3137:
Youth and Society- 5 Credits - Semester 8
Optional
SP3139:
Comparative Government and Politics- 5 Credits - Semester 8
Optional
TI230:
Economic Geography- 5 Credits - Semester 8
Optional
TI311:
Advanced Gis- 5 Credits - Semester 8
Optional
TI3117:
Migration, Mobility and Belonging- 5 Credits - Semester 8
Optional
TI324:
Urban Geography: Planning the Modern City- 5 Credits - Semester 8
Optional
SP420:
Sociology Of The Environment- 5 Credits - Semester 8
Optional
SP618:
Welfare Words: Key Words in Social Work & Social Welfare- 5 Credits - Semester 8
Optional
SP721:
Ocean and Marine Politics- 5 Credits - Semester 8
Optional
SPL315.II:
Smart & Liveable Cities and Suburbs- 5 Credits - Semester 8
Optional
SP419:
Marxist Theory- 5 Credits - Semester 8
Optional
SP3193:
Introduction to Social Work- 5 Credits - Semester 8
Optional
SP3194:
Theories of Nationalism- 5 Credits - Semester 8
Optional
SP3192:
Sociology of Religion- 5 Credits - Semester 8
Optional
SP3129:
Sexualities, Genders and Diversities- 5 Credits - Semester 8
Optional
WS821.II:
Thinking Differently: European Women's Studies- 5 Credits - Semester 8
Optional
SP405:
Contemporary Social Thought- 5 Credits - Semester 8
Optional
SP3144:
Political Liberty- 5 Credits - Semester 8
Optional
SP3103:
European Union: Political Theory and Pol. Economy- 5 Credits - Semester 8
Optional
SP3198:
Songs of Rebellion: Power, Resistance, and Affect- 5 Credits - Semester 8
Optional
SP3209:
The Sociology of the Bioeconomy- 5 Credits - Semester 8
Optional
SP3150:
Teaching Methods for the Politics and Society Classroom- 5 Credits - Semester 8
Optional
SP3101:
'Community' - Significance and Change- 5 Credits - Semester 8
Optional
SPL304:
Women, Men & the Economy: Critical Explorations of Theory & Policy- 5 Credits - Semester 8
Optional
SP3133:
The Northern Ireland Conflict- 5 Credits - Semester 8
Required
BSS4100:
Research Seminar in Social Sciences- 20 Credits - Semester 8
Optional
SP3134:
Human Rights Advocacy: Concepts, Law and Practice- 5 Credits - Semester 8
Why Choose This Course?
Career Opportunities
The BSc (Social Sciences) programme offers clear pathways that lead to an array of career opportunities across a wide range of interests including governmental, agency and business and industry sectors. Guidance will be offered throughout the programme to ensure students are undertaking the most appropriate modules for their own personal career goals and development. Careers post-graduation include (but are not limited to); Irish and international NGO’s, Agencies and authorities at local, national, EU and international levels, Public Service, Politics, Irish Aid Programmes, Community Work, Security and Crime Prevention, Contemporary Urban Planning, Environmental & Sustainability Policy, International Development, Human Resource Management, Business and Industry, Marketing, Industrial Relations, Journalism, the media and an array of social research opportunities. With the emphasis on broad societal contemporary challenges, the programme also offers new and existing opportunities for students to develop careers in business, industry and commerce, working with private sector companies, SMEs and multinationals, by proving unique understandings of innovation and entrepreneur processes and practices.
Who’s Suited to This Course
Students who choose the BSc (Social Sciences) degree programme at University of Galway are innovator and potential leaders seeking to understand and tackle the most challenging social, ecological and economic issues in contemporary society. They are frontrunners in informed decision-making pursuing accurate and feasible solutions to global issues and concerns based on fundamentally sound empirical evidence and research. The programme gives students the tools to address and tackle these grand societal concerns and problems and Social Science graduates offer a wide range of skills that are invaluable to present-day employers across the public, private and third sectors. These include the ability to understand complex issues in a holistic manner, on individual and cultural and societal levels; research, analyse and evaluate data critically; question flawed assumptions; understand people, institutions and their relationships; understand processes of change; make reasoned arguments; communicate concisely and clearly and solve pressing problems with ingenuity and a passion to do good.
What do social science graduates do?
About University of Galway
Founded in 1845, we've been inspiring students for 178 years. University of Galway has earned international recognition as a research-led university with a commitment to top quality teaching.
University of Galway
Overview:
University of Galway, formerly known as National University of Ireland, Galway (NUI Galway / NUIG), is a research-led institution with a strong commitment to high-quality teaching. Established in 1845, it has earned international recognition for its academic excellence and vibrant research community. The university is known for its commitment to sustainability, ranking #1 in Ireland for sustainable development in the Times Higher Education World Rankings.
Services Offered:
The university offers a wide range of services to students, including:
Accommodation Advisory Service:
Assists students in finding suitable accommodation.Campus Activities:
Provides opportunities for students to engage in various activities, including sports, clubs, and societies.Student Support:
Offers a variety of support services, such as academic advising, career counseling, and mental health support.Study Abroad:
Facilitates international study opportunities for students.International Office:
Provides support and guidance to international students.Mature Students:
Offers specific support and resources for mature students.Students with Disabilities:
Provides accommodations and support for students with disabilities.Student Ambassador Programme:
Connects students with prospective students and provides opportunities for leadership development.For Parents and Guardians:
Offers information and resources for parents and guardians of students.Access Student Information:
Provides access to student information systems and resources.Life in Galway:
Offers information and resources about living in Galway city.Student Life and Campus Experience:
University of Galway offers a vibrant and diverse campus experience. Students can expect:
- A welcoming and supportive community.
- A wide range of extracurricular activities and opportunities for personal growth.
- A beautiful campus located in the heart of Galway city.
- Access to state-of-the-art facilities and resources.
- A strong sense of community and belonging.
Key Reasons to Study There:
Commitment to Sustainability:
University of Galway is a leader in sustainability, offering a learning environment that cares for the planet.Research Excellence:
The university boasts a vibrant research community tackling some of the most pressing challenges of our time.Global Recognition:
University of Galway is internationally recognized for its academic excellence and research.Beautiful Campus:
The university is located on a beautiful campus in the heart of Galway city.Vibrant City:
Galway is a vibrant and welcoming city with a rich culture and history.Academic Programs:
University of Galway offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across various disciplines, including:
Arts, Social Sciences, & Celtic Studies
Business, Public Policy and Law
Medicine, Nursing & Health Sciences
Science and Engineering
The university is particularly strong in areas such as:
Medicine
Engineering
Business
Arts and Humanities
Celtic Studies
Other:
- The university has a strong focus on community engagement and outreach.
- It has a large and active alumni network.
- The university is a member of the National University of Ireland (NUI).
The provided context does not include information about the following sections:
Fees & Funding:
Modes of Study:
Open Days:
Scholarships:
Minimum Grade H5 in two subjects and passes in four other subjects at O6/H7 Grades in the Leaving Certificate including Irish, English, another language, and three other subjects recognised for entry purposes.
