Bachelor of Social Science

Undergraduate Entry Requirements 

Application Fee: € 35

Academic Qualifications: Applicants for undergraduate programs typically require a minimum academic achievement of 75% or above in their previous academic qualifications.

English Language Proficiency:

• IELTS: Overall score of 6.0 or 6.5, with no individual band below 5.5.
• TOEFL: Overall score of 95 with no less than 24 in each section.
• PTE: Overall score of 62, with a minimum of 58 in each section.
• DET (Duolingo English Test): Overall score of 120.

Students must provide:

• academic marksheets & transcripts
• letters of recommendation
• a personal statement - SOP
• passport
• other supporting documents as required by the university.

It's important to note that entry requirements can vary by program and may change over time. Additionally, some programs may have additional requirements, such as interviews, portfolios, or work experience.

Maynooth University offers a range of scholarships and financial aid opportunities to support international students pursuing their academic endeavors. These scholarships are designed to recognize academic excellence, promote diversity, and assist students with financial constraints. 

Academic Excellence Scholarships: Maynooth University offers scholarships based on academic merit to outstanding international students. These scholarships recognize high academic achievement in previous studies and are awarded to students with exceptional potential.

Entrance Scholarships: The university provides entrance scholarships to attract and support high-caliber international students entering undergraduate programs. These scholarships aim to reward exceptional academic performance and talent.

International Student Scholarships: Maynooth University offers specific scholarships dedicated to international students. These scholarships are designed to assist students with tuition fees and living expenses, fostering a diverse and inclusive academic community.

Need-Based Financial Aid: The university also offers need-based financial aid options to international students who demonstrate financial need. These aids are intended to support students facing financial challenges during their academic studies.

Graduating with a Bachelor of Social Science degree from Maynooth University opens up a diverse range of career opportunities in various sectors, including social services, research, policy analysis, community development, advocacy, and more. Equipped with a deep understanding of human behavior, social dynamics, and societal issues, graduates are well-prepared to make meaningful contributions to society and address pressing social challenges.

Social Worker: Many graduates pursue careers as social workers, working in diverse settings such as schools, hospitals, community centers, or social service agencies. They provide support, counseling, and resources to individuals and families facing challenges such as poverty, homelessness, mental illness, or domestic violence, helping them navigate complex systems and access necessary services.

Policy Analyst: With strong analytical skills and a deep understanding of social issues, graduates can pursue careers as policy analysts or researchers, working for government agencies, think tanks, advocacy organizations, or research institutes. They analyze social policies, evaluate their impact, and develop recommendations to address societal problems such as inequality, healthcare access, education reform, or criminal justice reform.

Community Organizer: Passionate graduates may choose to pursue careers as community organizers, working with grassroots organizations, non-profits, or advocacy groups to mobilize communities, raise awareness about social issues, and advocate for change. They engage in outreach, coalition-building, and grassroots activism to empower marginalized groups and foster social justice and equity.

Human Resources Specialist: Graduates with a Bachelor of Social Science degree can pursue careers in human resources, specializing in areas such as recruitment, employee relations, or diversity and inclusion. They leverage their understanding of human behavior and organizational dynamics to attract, retain, and support a diverse workforce, promoting positive workplace cultures and employee well-being.

Researcher/Evaluator: For graduates interested in research and data analysis, careers as social science researchers or program evaluators offer opportunities to contribute to knowledge generation and evidence-based practice. They design studies, collect and analyze data, and assess the effectiveness of social programs or interventions aimed at addressing societal issues such as poverty, health disparities, or educational attainment.

Non-profit Administrator: Graduates may pursue careers in non-profit management or administration, overseeing the operations and programs of organizations dedicated to social causes such as education, healthcare, environmental conservation, or human rights. They manage budgets, coordinate activities, and ensure compliance with regulations, enabling non-profits to achieve their missions and serve their communities effectively.

Policy Advocate/Lobbyist: Passionate about social change and policy reform, graduates may choose to pursue careers as policy advocates or lobbyists, working to influence government policies and legislation on behalf of marginalized communities or social justice causes. They engage in advocacy campaigns, coalition-building, and legislative lobbying to promote policies that address systemic inequities and improve the lives of vulnerable populations.

Community Development Officer: Graduates can pursue careers as community development officers, working for local governments, non-profits, or international organizations to facilitate community-led initiatives, promote economic development, and enhance social cohesion. They collaborate with residents, stakeholders, and government agencies to identify needs, develop strategies, and implement programs that empower communities and improve quality of life.