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Whether you wish to pursue a general interest in the social sciences or are seeking an introduction to studying within the multidisciplinary field of the social sciences, the Diploma in Social Science is the programme for you. Social Science is the interdisciplinary study of human society. It draws upon disciplines such as sociology, psychology, anthropology, and applied social studies, and this range of disciplines is represented in the programme.
Programme Aims and Objectives
The Diploma in Social Science allows students to complete two core modules from the BA (Hons) Social Science degree in DBS School of Arts and explore their own learning in a manner that allows them to exit, if they wish, after a year of study with a DBS diploma or continue as a part-time Social Science student on the BA (Hons) Social Science (to progress to the degree programme students must meet minimum entry requirements for modular students). Two key areas of Social Science are studied: Introduction to Social Science and Crime and Society. Students study a demanding set of topics along with other part-time students and are assessed on their knowledge. The objective is to gain and demonstrate an understanding of core topic areas of Social Science and explore how Social Scientists research and interpret human and societal phenomena, such as crime.
Programme Structure
The Diploma in Social Science aspires to a learner centred approach to learning and teaching. Learning and teaching methods that may be utilised include lectures, seminars, tutorials and workshops. Each module is organised in a variety of ways so as to best encourage the engagement, development and collaboration of learners. Learners are actively encouraged and assisted to manage their own studies outside of lectures. This is facilitated by the teaching styles and methods adopted within each module and by placing greater emphasis on practically focused assessment.
Programme Content
Introduction to Social Science
This module introduces the central concerns of Social Science. This discipline is concerned mainly with the way individuals find themselves in complex social structures (ethnic, religious, national groups) and the way these structures are organised. Theories discussed throughout the module will be applied to particular fields of Social Science such as: the process of socialisation, family, education, social and economic stratification, social policy and government. Special effort is made to outline and discuss these issues in relation to contemporary Irish society.
Crime and Society
The Crime and Society module explores the historical background of crime and its contextual relation to society from the 18th Century and also explores how society currently understands crime. The various theories of crime and criminal behaviour and the study of contemporary criminology are discussed. The contribution of Social Science theory and knowledge is illuminated, and contemporary issues relating to crime and society are further explored and debated.
Assessment
To be awarded the Diploma in Social Science a student will be required to complete continuous assessment for each of the two modules. The Introduction to Social Science and Crime and Society modules are both 100% continuous assessment.
Career Progression Opportunities
Students will be able to apply the skills they have learned during the Diploma programme to a variety of areas of work, especially in the public sector, including social care, social work, community youth work, and community development work. Others working in policing and nursing vocations will also find the components of the programme of value. Indeed, many students find that studying these modules increases their awareness and knowledge of salient issues affecting society, thereby increasing their confidence in discussing and debating such important topics.
Further Study Options
On successful completion of this programme and all related assessment, students may choose to progress onto the BA (Hons) Social Science evening degree at DBS School of Arts and receive an exemption from the two modules at degree level (minimum entry requirements apply).
Student Profile
Typically participants on the programme have a general interest in the area of the social sciences and consequently wish to pursue this interest by entering and completing the Diploma in Social Science. Other students undertake the diploma as an introduction to studying in the multidisciplinary field of the social sciences and then, having successfully completed the diploma (and having met minimum entry requirements for modular students), proceed to study on the BA (Hons) Social Science in DBS School of Arts.