Applied Social Studies in Professional Social Care - Carlow
Our one year top up Honours degree programme is the culmination of your journey on the BA (Honours) in Applied Social Studies (Professional Social Care)—designed specifically for part-time learners who are balancing study with work, family, and other commitments. It is aimed at applicants that hold a Level 7 in the area of Social Studies.
| Award Name | Degree - Honours Bachelor (Level 8 NFQ) |
|---|---|
| NFQ Classification | Major |
| Awarding Body | South East Technological University |
| NFQ Level | Level 8 NFQ |
| Award Name | NFQ Classification | Awarding Body | NFQ Level |
|---|---|---|---|
| Degree - Honours Bachelor (Level 8 NFQ) | Major | South East Technological University | Level 8 NFQ |
Duration
1 year, part-time, online.
Delivery
This programme will be delivered online. However, please note that the following modules have exams that will take place onsite in Carlow;
Psychology: Adjustment and Positive Change
Ethics, Social Justice and Human Rights
Leadership and Change Management
Entry Requirements
Please Note: This programme is not approved by CORU. It is important to note that the minimum level of qualification for entry to the register is NQF Level 7. All applicants will be considered on a case-by-case basis. Lifelong Learning reserves the right to require applicants to attend for an interview to determine their suitability for the programme.
Careers / Further progression
Progress Your Career with Confidence
Completing this programme positions you for advancement within the Irish social care sector. Graduates often move into:
More senior or specialised social care roles
Positions with greater responsibility within organisations
Further professional development or postgraduate study
Whether you are already working in the field or looking to progress, this qualification supports your next step.
Further information
Next Intake September 2026
Application Deadline 30 Sep 2026
Our one year top up Honours degree programme is the culmination of your journey on the BA (Honours) in Applied Social Studies (Professional Social Care)—designed specifically for part-time learners who are balancing study with work, family, and other commitments. It is aimed at applicants that hold a Level 7 in the area of Social Studies.
At this stage, you build on the knowledge and experience you’ve already developed, progressing towards a NFQ Level 8 qualification that supports your career in the Irish social care sector.
Designed for the Realities of Working Life
We understand that many of our students are already working in social care or related areas. The final stage of the programme is structured to support you in continuing your professional role while advancing your qualifications.
Your learning is directly connected to practice—allowing you to immediately apply new ideas, approaches, and insights within your own work environment.
Advancing Your Professional Practice
In this programme, the focus is on deepening your professional capability and preparing you for greater responsibility. You will explore:
Ethics, Human Rights and Social Justice in the context of Irish practice
Contemporary Issues in Social Care, reflecting real challenges you may already be experiencing in your work
Leadership and Organisational Change, supporting progression into senior roles
Psychology and Positive Change, enhancing your work with individuals and groups
Sociological and Global Perspectives, broadening your understanding of social care in a changing world
This is about strengthening not just what you know—but how you apply it.
Your Experience, Your Expertise
One of the key strengths of the programme is the incorporation of your lived and professional experience. This is particularly reflected in your Social Research Dissertation, where you will:
Focus on a topic relevant to your own practice or area of interest
Apply research skills in a practical, meaningful way
Produce a substantial piece of work that demonstrates your expertise
For many students, this becomes a powerful tool for career progression or further study.
A Flexible Path to a Level 8 Qualification
This part-time pathway allows you to achieve an Honours degree while continuing to meet your existing commitments. You are not stepping away from your life—you are building on it.
Take the Next Step
You’ve already come this far. Stage 4 is your opportunity to complete your degree and open up new possibilities in your career.
Apply now and take the final step towards a Level 8 qualification in Professional Social Care—designed to fit around your life and support your future.
Please Note: This programme is not approved by CORU. It is important to note that the minimum level of qualification for entry to the register is NQF Level 7.
Modules
Social Research Dissertation
Ethics, Social Justice and Human Rights
Leadership and Change Management
Psychology - Adjustment and Positive Change
Contemporary Issues in Social Care
Global Perspectives on Sociology
Course Leader
Eoin O'Brien
Call: +353599175280
Email: eoin.obrien@setu.ie