Social Studies with Psychology - Applied
There is a recognised need for a variety of qualified practitioners in the Social Care sector. This course is the ideal stepping stone to help you get to a 3rd Level qualification. A significant number of students have also gained employment in settings such as Residential Care Centres, Community Projects, Youth Centres, Centres for the Elderly/Aged, or assisting people with disabilities.
| Award Name | Level 5 Certificate (Level 5 NFQ) |
|---|---|
| NFQ Classification | Major |
| Awarding Body | QQI |
| NFQ Level | Level 5 NFQ |
| Award Name | NFQ Classification | Awarding Body | NFQ Level |
|---|---|---|---|
| Level 5 Certificate (Level 5 NFQ) | Major | QQI | Level 5 NFQ |
Duration
This is a one-year full time course and runs from September to May.
Entry Requirements
A Leaving Certificate or equivalent is required, although exceptions are given to mature students who are over 23 years of age.
Acceptance to the course is also based on an interview which takes place a few weeks after applications have been submitted.
Careers / Further progression
Course Progression
With a Level 5 Applied Social Studies qualification in Ireland, you have several progression options:
1. Further Education: You can advance to a Level 6 course in Social Studies here in Mayo College.
2. Higher Education: You can apply for a degree programme in Social Care, Social Work, Psychology, or Community Development at universities or institutes of technology. Please see CAO/Qualifax to explore. There are wide range of progression opportunities available for FET graduates via the CAO website. Please view the entry requirements for all Higher Education colleges here: https://www.cao.ie/index.php?page=scoring&s=fetac
3. Employment: With a Level 5 qualification, you can seek entry-level positions in social care settings, such as care assistant roles in residential care, community care, or support work
4. Specialized Training: You can pursue additional certifications or training in specific areas of social care, such as mental health, addiction studies, or youth work, to enhance your employability and expertise
Further information
Course commences 7th September 2026
Mayo College of Further Education & Training is offering no tuition fees for September 2026, which covers exam fees, student consumables, and journals. This includes courses across campuses in Ballina, Castlebar, and Westport, aimed at relieving the cost of living crisis. Some specific courses or materials might still have costs, but tuition is free.
Means tested grants are available from SUSI.
Please visit http://www.susi.ie/ for more information and to make an application.
Yes
This one year Level 5 QQI Applied Social Studies with Psychology provides a foundation in Social Studies and provides the opportunity to progress to employment or further study in the Social Studies area. The course contains a mix of practical and theory elements with trips throughout the year. There is an opportunity to partake in Erasmus+ placements.
All students complete a two week work experience placement as part of their studies on this course. Successful students will be awarded a QQI Level 5 Certificate in Applied Social Studies. Extra courses/workshops may be provided such as Occupational First Aid (OFA 5N1207), Child Protection Guidelines & Drama
Social Studies 5N1370
Young People & Society 5N2002
Intercultural Studies 5N0765
Psychology 5N0754
Work Experience 5N1356
Communications 5N0690
Human Growth and Development 5N1279
Community Addiction Studies 5N0764
Equality & Disability 5N1273
5M2181 - Applied Social Studies
Award: QQI Level 5 Certificate in Applied Social Studies - 5M2181.
Phone: 094 9023134
Email: admin@ccfe.ie