Applied Social Studies with Psychology
(Applied Social Studies)
Take the first step!
INTRODUCTION:
Do you have the abilities and aptitudes for working with people? Do you wish to pursue an education in the areas of social science, social care, criminology or the humanities? This pre-University course will provide you with a comprehensive knowledge base and the opportunity to progress to third level courses in these areas.
ENTRY REQUIREMENTS:
- Leaving Certificate with a minimum of 5 x O6/H7 grades.
- Mature students are exempt from the Leaving Certificate requirement.
- All applicants are interviewed.
- CERFL proficiency at B2 for access to Level 5 courses for those whose first language is not English.
- An offer of a place on this course is contingent on the applicant meeting the requirements set out here and satisfactory presentation at interview.
- Garda Vetting is required for work experience.
DURATION:
September to May.
FEES:
See fees & payment for details.
CERTIFICATION
-
QQI Level 5 Certificate in Applied Social Studies (5M2181).
-
QQI Component Maths (5N1833) – available as option in the evening for learners requiring Maths for progression.
COURSE CONTENT
Psychology - 5N0754
Explore a variety of theorists / practitioners / therapists e.g Freud and Rogers, look at the brain as well as memory and how it works. Learn specifics about addiction, schizophrenia, depression, eating disorders, stress, emotional behavioural disorders and learning disabilities, phobias, OCD etc. Understand sleep and dreams as well as disorders in this area, social psychology experiments and research in this area, behaviour in groups, helping behaviours, peer pressure, advertising etc. A number of therapeutic approaches are covered e.g. CBT, gestalt , person centred etc… when dealing with people who have mental health issues.
Social Studies - 5N1370
Understand your position as an individual, family member and as part of a community and wider society. Examine critically contemporary social issues, learn how some sociological theories can be applied to Irish society, increase your effectiveness in life and work through understanding social issues e.g the impact of discrimination on individuals and groups in society.
Communications - 5N0690
Acquire writing skills, learn to speak fluently and coherently in a professional setting, develop interpersonal skills and have an understanding of the impact of ICT on society.
Intercultural Studies - 5N0765
Encourages students to appreciate diversity and multiculturalism in 21st century Ireland. Looks at Irish and International examples of cultural diversity – and both the positive and negative outcomes that can arise from these.
Legal Practice and Procedures - 5N1394
Understand the role of the constitution in the Irish legal system, legal terminology and the structure of the Irish court system. Describe proceedings in a court of law. Explore the impact of European law on the Irish system. Evaluate documents and legislation in your relevant area. Identify main categories of remedies e.g compensation etc.
Criminology - 5N2107
Gain an understanding of the behavioural theories associated with crime and its prevention. Look at social and economic factors affecting criminal behaviour. Explore criminal legislation and the role of stakeholders involved in crime prevention. Identify the key characteristics of a broad range of crimes, including drug related crime and outline suitable methods of research and investigation in the area of crime.
Care Support - 5N0758
Explore roles, responsibilities and entitlements of a care worker. Demonstrate an ability to plan and provide enhanced quality of care.
Work Experience - 5N1356
Planning, preparation and reflection on work placement. Job finding strategies, CV and personal statement preparation, interview skills. Practise employability skills with a view to future planning.
ADDITIONAL TRAINING / WORKSHOPS
- Mindfulness (online training) – This Mindfulness workshop will introduce the learner to the practice of Mindfulness as a personal resource. The topics include a better understanding of what mindfulness is, understanding how mindfulness can help us to manage stress and anxiety and learning practical tools to incorporate mindfulness into everyday life. A Certificate of Completion is issued on completion.
- Introduction to GDPR – This course gives learners an overview of GDPR. The workshop examines what GDPR stands for and gives an understanding of the current data protection rules and obligations. The learners also receive information on the types of data, the terminology associated with GDPR, the penalties with breaches, storage of data and general do’s and don’ts regarding data. A Certificate of Completion is issued on completion.
- Microsoft Outlook (online training) –This Microsoft Outlook workshop will give information on accessing your college email, Outlook layout, how to send and receive emails, attaching/downloading a file and reply options. It also covers organising your emails – folders etc, Outlook settings, signature, out-of-office reply, using the calendar, setting up meetings, setting up reminders and to do lists. A Certificate of Completion from Morrison’s Island Campus is issued on successful completion.
- State of the Art VR Training (Body Swaps) – We offer students the unique opportunity to enhance their soft skills using an advanced AI-powered learning platform. This cutting-edge technology allows learners to engage in realistic, immersive simulations helping to build essential skills like communication skills, presentations, and team work. Get personal feedback and be prepared for real-world challenges.
FAQs
What hours are involved?
The course is full time and runs Monday to Thursday potentially from 9-5pm and on Fridays from 9-2pm.
How is the course assessed?
The course is assessed through a combination of coursework (projects, assignments, learner records and portfolios) which is done throughout the year with exams held at Christmas and at the end April/start May. Exam timetables are published by the Examinations & Assessment Committee through the Student Intranet and the Exam Scheduler App.
Can I progress to Applied Psychology in UCC from Applied Social Studies with Psychology?
If you are interested in progressing to Applied Psychology in UCC it would be preferable for you to complete the QQI Level 5 Applied Psychology course as that contains all the modules required within the course however it is possible to do QQI Level 5 Maths as an extra module (in the evening) with the Applied Social Studies course to meet the entry requirements for Applied Psychology in UCC.
Do I require Garda vetting for this course?
Yes, Garda vetting is required as you will be working with vulnerable persons on your work experience placement. The Garda vetting process will be completed in September with the assistance of the college Garda vetting office.
WORK PLACEMENT / EXPERIENCE
Students will undertake a two week block work placement. Placement can be sourced in a variety of community based settings e.g. social and voluntary services, family and community services, residential services etc. Garda vetting is an integral part of the application procedure for Work Experience.
Students are encouraged to source their own Work Placement but you will be supported by the Work Placement team should you need assistance to do this.
EDUCATION PROGRESSION OPPORTUNITIES
Some of our popular progression opportunities include:
Morrison’s Island Campus
MTU Cork
- Social Care (MT573).
UCC
- Social Science (CK102)
- Criminology (CK113)
- Arts (CK101)
- Law (CK301).
Excellent progression opportunities to other Higher Education colleges. Special arrangements in place with MTU Cork (CCPS), MTU Kerry and SETU (Waterford & Carlow) for preferential entry for students of Morrisons Island locations. Go to our progressions database for exact requirements on progressions for this course.
CAREER OPPORTUNITIES
This course is designed for progression, to provide a foundation in the knowledge and skills needed to successfully advance and succeed in a 3rd level course in a related area. It is the first step in achieving a career in this area. Guidance seminars and one to one guidance available on the wide range of opportunities.
CONTACT DETAILS:
Email: SocialStudies@morrisonsislandcampus.ie
Tel: (021) 4223 835