Bachelor of Science (Social Science)

Course Overview

Do you see yourself at the forefront of tackling some of the most crucial and pressing social, ecological and economic issues of our times? Do you regard yourself as ambitious and driven, with a strong disposition towards leadership, innovation and thinking and acting differently about local, national and global issues? Then the contemporary and innovative BSc (Social Sciences Degree programme is for you!

“It’s a mark of our humanity that we want to understand how we live in society!”

The BSc (Social Science programme is aimed at motivated school leavers and mature students who have a strong penchant for the study of some of the most fundamental issues and concerns for modern society and the environment. The programme strongly focuses on the applied nature of the Social Sciences and will equip students with practical research skills, in addition to focussing on career development and readiness, and further educational opportunities. There is an international fieldtrip in year two, a significant workplace internship in year three, and dissertation or research project component in year four, giving students practical real-world experience and knowledge of working in areas of Social Scientific inquiry. The growth in interdisciplinary study and research is building crucial knowledge and supporting the national capacity to respond to complex societal challenges by providing new solutions that cannot be provided by one discipline alone. This pioneering interdisciplinary Social Sciences degree programme draws on key strengths of Schools and Disciplines right across the College of Arts, university-wide Research Institutes and Centres, and innovation and entrepreneurial programs right across the University. Supporting and advocating the value and need for social scientific research to key decision-makers and policy designers, in addition to community activism and advocacy, forms an intrinsic part of the Social Sciences programme ethos.

Minimum Grade H5 in two subjects and passes in four other subjects at O6/H7 Grades in the Leaving Certificate including Irish, English, another language, and three other subjects recognised for entry purposes.

This innovative four-year degree is aimed at high-achieving students with a passion to better understand and address the crucial contemporary social, environmental and economic issues of our time

Students will participate in a European fieldtrip in Year Two as well as a one-semester WORK internship/placement in Year Three, gaining practical experience and understanding of working in key areas of the social sciences

This interdisciplinary degree draws on key strengths of schools, disciplines and research institutes right across the university, allowing for the synthesis of ideas from diverse social science disciplines and perspectives to produce career-ready graduates.

Work Placements

Our students have the opportunity to participate in a semester-long national, European or international work internship/placement, which takes place in Year Three. This internship will provide practical experience and links with programme partners, organisations, industry and businesses, and will serve to enhance student's overall employability on graduation. Year Four will focus on building upon this work experience and knowledge preparing students for future career choices or further study opportunities in their chosen careers. Placement opportunities are competitive, programme-specific, and subject to change depending on availability. Work placements include community, industry and on-campus opportunities. Year Three study opportunities are also available at the University of Galway and beyond.

Study Abroad

The European fieldtrip is a central element of the programme in Year Two. The programme also offers exciting prospects to study or work abroad as part of the student internship/placement experience in Year Three. Such study/work opportunities suit students who view their future as part of the international community of social scientific researchers and activists, such as those working with the European Union or the United Nations. Studying abroad is offered through the Erasmus programme. Our internationally renowned lecturers continue to expand their teaching and research networks globally with other academics, institutions and universities.

‌Career Opportunities

Students can expect to develop careers in many diverse areas, industries and sectors such as community development, social care, environmental and urban planning, Irish and international non-governmental organisations (NGOs), local and national politics, international development, human resource management, journalism, the media and social research, to mention just a few such callings. The programme also offers exciting opportunities to develop careers in business and industry, specifically in areas of innovation, culture, creativity and entrepreneurship.