Are you interested in working with communities? Would you like to work with young people? Do you have a commitment to equality and social justice? Are you interested in getting involved in movements for social and environmental change?
The BSocSc (Youth and Community Work) degree programme should interest you if you are keen to work with people and communities, including those experiencing inequality, marginalisation and social exclusion.
This unique degree combines an academic social science programme with a professionally accredited qualification in youth work. This professional qualification is recognised by employers in the Republic of Ireland, Northern Ireland, and throughout the UK.
The BSocSc (Youth and Community Work) programme offers a range of foundational subjects including Sociology, Social Policy, and Research Methods. Exciting contemporary subjects also offered include the sociology of youth; principles and practice of youth and community work; citizen engagement and social movements; children and young people’s rights; working with groups and communities; global education; young people’s mental health; the use of social media in youth and community work; sustainability and the environment; and project planning and management.
The course is designed on the understanding that this is the first time that many students are encountering the social sciences. As such, students are not expected to have prior knowledge of the various subjects, and the first year is focused on introducing you to key concepts and theories.
An integral element of the degree is the opportunity to engage in research about a social issue of special interest to you. Final year students undertake a social research project (dissertation) that they design and carry out with the guidance of an academic supervisor and with opportunities to collaborate with local youth or community organisations. Students therefore produce ‘real world’ research that responds to key social issues in the 21st century.
Growing inequalities, destabilisation of democracy, and the existential problem of climate change pose considerable threats to our already complex and changing society. In this context, skilled and knowledgeable community and youth workers have a key role to play as facilitators, leaders, and participants in movements for social, environmental, and economic change and justice.
Upon completion of this course, you will have access to a range of stimulating and varied employment opportunities across the youth work, community, and voluntary sector, giving you the chance to continue to offer your critical skills and knowledge to young people, communities and social movements.
