This programme is approved by CORU, who are responsibile for regulating Health and Social Care Professionals in Ireland.

Social Care is defined by CORU as a “relationship-based approach to the purposeful planning and provision of care, protection, psychosocial support and advocacy in partnership with vulnerable individuals and groups who experience marginalisation, disadvantage or special needs. Principles of social justice and human rights are central to the practice of Social Care Workers.”

Social Care Practice is a dynamic and evolving field that is now a professionally regulated career under CORU alongside with other health and social care professions. Throughout this honour’s degree, students develop their critical thinking skills, have a greater understanding of human interaction and how to respond in a professional and informed way to the needs of people who use support services. This program is a blend of theoretical knowledge and practical experience. It equips you to be a skilled, reflective and responsible practitioner in the field of Social Care Work.

Practical skills are developed through two 12-week block placements in the second and third years (840 hours in total), under the guidance of experienced professionals. Practice placement is where a social care student demonstrates their achievement of the Social Care Standards of Proficiencies (SOP) as set out by CORU. This programme is responsive to changing landscape of practice and is designed to provide you with the comprehensive knowledge, skills and competencies for a rewarding career in Social Care.

The placement modules on this programme are an integral part of the course and students may be placed anywhere within the Republic of Ireland. The aim of the placement is to provide learners with an opportunity to gain skills, experience and competence. Travel and accommodation are the responsibility of the learner. Students will be required to undertake mandatory training as outlined by the course schedule prior to going on placement.

Click here to view the student handbook for this programme.
Please note that students can only enter this course at Year 1. Advanced entry into later years of this professionally accredited programme is not an option to ensure students complete the entire approved curriculum.