Social Policy

Studying Social Policy at degree level introduces you to how government decisions about welfare, housing, healthcare, education and income support are made, funded and evaluated. You examine the historical development of the Irish welfare state alongside comparative systems in Europe and beyond. Modules combine theory — drawing on sociology, economics and political science — with practical policy analysis, using real data and case studies from Irish government departments and NGOs. You typically spend time working through policy documents, writing briefing papers and engaging in seminars that debate current issues such as the housing crisis, universal healthcare and social inequality. Some programmes include a work placement or Erasmus exchange, giving you direct experience of policy environments.

Entry is through the CAO, and most Social Policy programmes are offered as part of a broader Social Science or Arts degree in UCD or TCD, with specialisation from second year onwards. The minimum entry requirement is usually six subjects in the Leaving Certificate, including English at Ordinary level or above, with CAO points described as moderate to high for these universities. No specific Higher-level science or mathematics is typically required, though Higher-level English, History or Economics is advantageous. Applicants may also enter through a relevant QQI Level 5 or 6 PLC award in Community Development, Social Care or Public Administration via the QQI links and CAO higher education links schemes. Mature applicants aged 23 or over may apply through the mature entry route, and HEAR and DARE access schemes are available for students from socioeconomically disadvantaged backgrounds or with disabilities.

Demand for graduates with social policy skills in Ireland is steady, driven by ongoing challenges around housing, healthcare reform and social inequality. The civil service recruits regularly through the Public Appointments Service (PAS), and competition for entry-level grades is moderate. NGOs and advocacy bodies tend to offer more limited but meaningful roles, and a postgraduate qualification increasingly strengthens your position for senior analytical or research posts. Overall, graduates with strong research, writing and quantitative skills are well regarded across the public and non-profit sectors.