BA IN POLITICAL SCIENCE AND SOCIOLOGY

Overview

What Is Political Science and Sociology?

The school of Political Science and Sociology in unique in Ireland for offering two academic disciplines in a fully integrated way. Political Science is the systematic study of political life, political activity or behaviour, as well as basic political concepts, such as freedom, democracy and equality. It combines elements of history, economics and philosophy but has its own unique approach and style. Sociology is the study of society, social issues, and social activities or practices .It includes a factual dimension in the collection and critique of social facts and trends, together with a more critical and theoretical literature which reflects on the general nature of society, social order, and social problems. Both disciplines aim to provide detailed factual information about the nature of social and political life in our societies, but they also try to generate deeper arguments and analysis about why our societies are they way they are, and if they could be improved.

Why Study Political Science and Sociology?

Political Science and Sociology should obviously be a definite subject for any student very interested in current affairs and politics. However, many students find it a genuinely engaging and stimulating subject in its own right. It provides an excellent basis for the development of critical thinking, good communication skills, and is appreciated by employers as imparting in students superb awareness of vital social and political trends in society. From a career perspective, Sociological and Political Science provides an excellent foundation for a career in public administration, journalism, social work, business, and community work, etc. Postgraduate programmes include the MA in Community Development, the MA in Family Support Studies, the MA in Gender, Globalisation and Rights and the MA in Social Work, while the M.Litt. and Ph.D. by research in Political Science and in Sociology are also offered.

What Will I Be Studying?

The undergraduate programme provides an introduction to basic concepts in political science and sociology, Irish society and politics, political sociology, political and social theory, social science research methods and computer skills, European society and politics, public policy, and development theories and practice. Students are also facilitated in choosing a specialist interest from a range of special topics. The School of Political Science and Sociology offers a genuinely interdisciplinary social sciences education. Opportunities to study abroad feature as part of the undergraduate programme.

Visiting Students

The School of Political Science and Sociology makes a wide range of academic courses available to visiting students. Some are specifically about Ireland others are international in theme, but all deal with issues that are regarded as important in today’s world. For instructions on how to register and information about the courses available in 2011-12, click here. To download the Visiting Students Information Booklet for semester 2 of 2011-12, click here.

CAO Code

GY101

For More Information

For more information about enrolling in this course, please visit the Undergraduate Admissions Office.

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