Applied Social Studies in Professional Social Care

Our one year top up Honours degree programme is the culmination of your journey on the BA (Honours) in Applied Social Studies (Professional Social Care)—designed specifically for part-time learners who are balancing study with work, family, and other commitments. It is aimed at applicants that hold a Level 7 in the area of Social Studies.

At this stage, you build on the knowledge and experience you’ve already developed, progressing towards a NFQ Level 8 qualification that supports your career in the Irish social care sector.

Designed for the Realities of Working Life

We understand that many of our students are already working in social care or related areas. The final stage of the programme is structured to support you in continuing your professional role while advancing your qualifications.

Your learning is directly connected to practice—allowing you to immediately apply new ideas, approaches, and insights within your own work environment.

Advancing Your Professional Practice

In this programme, the focus is on deepening your professional capability and preparing you for greater responsibility. You will explore:

• Ethics, Human Rights and Social Justice in the context of Irish practice
• Contemporary Issues in Social Care, reflecting real challenges you may already be experiencing in your work
• Leadership and Organisational Change, supporting progression into senior roles
• Psychology and Positive Change, enhancing your work with individuals and groups
• Sociological and Global Perspectives, broadening your understanding of social care in a changing world

This is about strengthening not just what you know—but how you apply it.

Your Experience, Your Expertise

One of the key strengths of the programme is the incorporation of your lived and professional experience. This is particularly reflected in your Social Research Dissertation, where you will:

• Focus on a topic relevant to your own practice or area of interest
• Apply research skills in a practical, meaningful way
• Produce a substantial piece of work that demonstrates your expertise

For many students, this becomes a powerful tool for career progression or further study.

Progress Your Career with Confidence

Completing this programme positions you for advancement within the Irish social care sector. Graduates often move into:

• More senior or specialised social care roles
• Positions with greater responsibility within organisations
• Further professional development or postgraduate study

Whether you are already working in the field or looking to progress, this qualification supports your next step.

A Flexible Path to a Level 8 Qualification

This part-time pathway allows you to achieve an Honours degree while continuing to meet your existing commitments. You are not stepping away from your life—you are building on it.

Take the Next Step

You’ve already come this far. Stage 4 is your opportunity to complete your degree and open up new possibilities in your career.

Apply now and take the final step towards a Level 8 qualification in Professional Social Care—designed to fit around your life and support your future.

Please Note: This programme is not approved by CORU. It is important to note that the minimum level of qualification for entry to the register is NQF Level 7.

This programme will be delivered online. However, please note that the following modules have exams that will take place onsite in Carlow;

Psychology: Adjustment and Positive Change

Ethics, Social Justice and Human Rights

Leadership and Change Management