University of Galway

Course Module Information

Course Modules

Semester 1 and Semester 2 | Credits: 5

Politics and Sociology are intrinsically linked as politics and policies often seek to remedy social issues. This module explores these links and encourages you to look at world from a political and sociological perspective. This module provides you with an introduction to the policy making process in the Republic of Ireland.
(Language of instruction: English)

Learning Outcomes
  1. Describe the political system in the Republic of Ireland, its constituent parts and how it operates
  2. State and explain what is meant by policy
  3. Explain the relationship between the political system and policy making
  4. Discuss different theories about the policy process
  5. Outline competing models of policy making in Ireland, namely pluralism and corporatism
Assessments
  • Department-based Assessment (100%)
Teachers
Reading List
  1. "Sociology. A Global Introduction" by Macionis, J. J. and Plummer, K
    Publisher: Pearson
  2. "First Year Sociological and Political Studies – Sociology Textbook" by Vesna Malesevic
    Publisher: Pearson
  3. "A Sociology of Ireland" by Tovey, H. Share, P. Corcoran, M
    Publisher: Gill and Macmillan
  4. "Politics in the Republic of Ireland" by Coakley, J. and Gallagher, M
    Publisher: Routledge
  5. "Political Ideologies" by Heywood, A
    Publisher: Palgrave-Macmillan
The above information outlines module SP2104: " Practising Sociology and Politics " and is valid from 2020 onwards.
Note: Module offerings and details may be subject to change.