Social Policy (NFQ Level 6)

Programme Overview 

The aims of the Social Policy course are to examine the executive functions of state and the processes involved in decision making and social policy development within government. Outline the historical development of Irish social policy. Introduce the social policy framework with regard to Health, Education and Community and Voluntary Activity. Examine the relationship between social policy, service provision and community development in a local context.  

 Learning outcomes 

On successful completion of this module students will be able to: 

•  Understand the administrative functions of state and the processes involved in decision making and policy development within government. 
• Demonstrate an understanding of social policy in Ireland. 
• Demonstrate an awareness of the links between community development, policy and legislation. 

• Understand of the social policy framework with particular focus on health, education and community and voluntary activity. 
• Discuss the relationship between social policy, service provision and community development in a local context. 
• Relate Irish social policy to the European context. 

Assessment component 

As part of the assessment for this programme, learners will be required to complete case studies throughout the programme and take an end of term exam.  

Teaching, Learning and Assessment 

Students will acquire in-depth knowledge and develop research and problem-solving skills through work and enquiry-based learning, more formally structured tuition, and self-directed learning.  They will develop competencies in the following transferable skills: written and oral communication, critical thinking, digital literacy, group collaboration, problem solving, planning & time management.  A variety of assessment methods such as reflective journals, presentations, research projects, portfolios and assignments are used on the programme. 

Learner Supports  

At An Cosán, we support our learners fully so that they can achieve their full potential.  

• Technology moderators provide technical support and encouragement to learners in advance of and during online sessions. 
• Qualified tutors with in-depth classroom experience and subject matter expertise are readily available to discuss programme content. 
• One-to-one online mentors are available throughout the programme. 
• Learners are actively encouraged to support one another and build collaborative learning communities.   

Time commitment 

For accredited programmes, you need to be available for two full day workshops (2 x 6-hour face-to-face workshops) and 8 online sessions (2 hours per week). It is recommended that participants allocate a minimum of 3 hours per week for self-directed study to cover suggested readings and videos. 
* Format may be modified if part of a tailored or Certificate Programme. 

Entry Requirements 

Applicants must be 18 years+.  Applicants should have completed the Leaving Certificate or a QQI (FETAC) Major Award at Level 5 preferably in the area of leadership, community development studies or a related area. Other applicants will be considered on a case-by-case basis in accordance with the Institute of Technology Carlow policy on recognition of prior learning (RPL). Applicants may be required to attend for an interview.  

Admissions 

Closing date for applications is 3 weeks before start date of programme. 

Fees 

All 10-week accredited programmes are €300 per participant.  The course fee includes a non-refundable deposit of €50 payable to secure a place. Please note that 50% of the fees must be paid upfront with the balance to be paid before the course finishes.  Bursaries and phased payment options available for individual learners.  

Find out more:

• Visit our website
  To access more information on all An Cosán Programmes and to find out about the application process for the Academic Calendar 2021/2022, visit our website: www.ancosan.ie/adult-education/
   
• Join our weekly Open Day / Information Sessions
  If you are considering going back to education this year we invite you to join one of An Cosán’s weekly online Open Day / Information Sessions every Friday at 11am.
  Register to attend on this link: http://bit.ly/AnCosanOpenDays 

• Click here to download a copy of An Cosan’s Brochure 
• Click here to subscribe to our bi-monthly EZine: Pathways 
• Contact a member of our team:
  To register and receive further information on any of our Programmes, please contact our team on: 

  Tel: 01 – 462 8488 | Email: [email protected] | Visit our website: www.ancosan.ie Address: Kiltalown Village Centre, Jobstown, Tallaght, Dublin 24, D24 R3PN