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The Bachelor of Social Science program (BSocSc) examines the structure of human societies, exploring the social dynamics, institutions, and belief systems that shape communities, along with elements affecting the welfare of individuals, families, and nations.
Students develop skills to evaluate modern social challenges, policy approaches, and concerns such as poverty, marginalization, substance abuse, justice systems, housing, migration, cultural identity, disabilities, aging, and gender equity. A central emphasis lies on combating disparities and advocating for universal access to essential services. The curriculum also introduces careers in social professions like social work, community development, and youth services, with potential graduate study options available at Maynooth University.
This program follows a dual-major structure, combining Social Policy as the primary discipline with a secondary focus in Sociology, Philosophy, History, Anthropology, Geography, or Economics. Social Policy concentrates on governmental and organizational strategies addressing fundamental human welfare needs and their implementation.
Students must have completed a Leaving Certificate equivalent to the Ireland Leaving Certificate.
IELTS - 6.5 with no less than 6.0 in each band; TOEFL internet-based test - iBT: 90 with no less than 21 in writing and at least 19 in all other sections; Pearson Test of English - 63 with no less than 59 for each item in the Communicative Skills section; Duolingo English Test (DET) - 120 with no less than 110 in literacy, conversation, and comprehension subscores and no less than 95 in production. (This lower production subscore applies to non-EU applicants only), Cambridge Proficiency Cert. - 176+ on Cambridge English scale with no less than 169 in each skill and use of English. Proficiency Certificate, Grade C or better (CEFR Level C1 or C2); Cambridge Advanced Cert. - 176+ on Cambridge English scale with no less than 169 in each skill and use of English Advanced Certificate, Grade C or better (CEFR Level C1 or C2); Cambridge First Cert. - 176+ on Cambridge English scale with no less than 169 in each skill and use of English First Certificate, Grade A (CEFR Level C1); ETAPP - C1 or better (CEFR Level C1 or C2); Oxford Test of English - 140 with no less than 125 in each skill; Trinity College London ISE - ISE III with at least merit in each skill category. International Baccalaureate – English A1, A2, or B5 at Higher Level (4at either Level if presenting IB through English) NOTE: Applicants whose school-leaving examinations are more than two years old should present additional proof of English.