BSocSc Hons Social Science

Undergraduate Entry Requirements

Application Fee: € 50

Academic Qualifications: For undergraduate programs, applicants require a minimum academic score of 80-85% or above in their previous studies.

English Language Proficiency:

• IELTS: Overall score of 6.0 or 6.5, with no individual band below 5.5.
• TOEFL: Overall score of 90, with specific section requirements: Listening 20, Reading 20, Speaking 21, Writing 20.
• PTE: Overall score of 63, with no section below 59.
• DET: Overall score of 120, with a minimum of 110.

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.

University College Cork (UCC) offers various scholarships and financial aid options to support international students in their academic pursuits. These scholarships are aimed at assisting students with tuition fees, living expenses, and other educational costs. 

International Merit-Based Scholarships: UCC provides merit-based scholarships for high-achieving international students entering undergraduate or postgraduate programs. These scholarships recognize academic excellence and may cover partial tuition fees or provide stipends.

Government and External Scholarships: International students may also be eligible for scholarships offered by their home governments, non-governmental organizations, or external funding bodies. UCC assists students by providing information and support in applying for these external scholarship opportunities.

Research Scholarships and Grants: For postgraduate research students, UCC offers various grants and scholarships to support research endeavors. These scholarships often cover tuition fees and provide additional stipends for living expenses.

Sports Scholarships: UCC recognizes talented athletes and offers sports scholarships to support their academic and athletic pursuits. These scholarships assist students in balancing their sports with their studies.

Faculty-Specific Scholarships: Certain faculties or departments within UCC offer scholarships tailored to specific academic disciplines. These scholarships aim to attract exceptional students to particular programs and fields of study.

Need-Based Financial Aid: The university understands the financial challenges international students might face and offers need-based financial aid programs to assist students who demonstrate financial need.

The BSocSc Hons Social Science program at University College Cork equips graduates with versatile skills, knowledge, and perspectives that are highly valued across various sectors and industries. Graduates are well-prepared to pursue meaningful and rewarding careers that contribute to social justice, community well-being, and positive social change.

1. Social Researcher: Graduates can pursue careers as social researchers, conducting studies to explore various social phenomena, trends, and issues. They work in research institutes, think tanks, government agencies, non-profit organizations, and private research firms, collecting and analyzing data to inform policy decisions, evaluate programs, or contribute to academic knowledge.

2. Policy Analyst: Many graduates find employment as policy analysts, working for government agencies, advocacy organizations, or consulting firms. They analyze social, economic, and political trends, assess the impact of policies and programs, and make recommendations to policymakers to address social problems, promote social justice, and improve public services.

3. Community Development Worker: Graduates can work as community development workers, supporting communities to identify their needs, assets, and priorities, and develop strategies to address social issues and improve quality of life. They collaborate with community organizations, local authorities, and stakeholders to implement projects, mobilize resources, and empower communities to create positive change.

4. Social Worker: Some graduates pursue careers in social work, providing support and assistance to individuals, families, and communities facing challenges such as poverty, homelessness, mental health issues, or substance abuse. They work in social service agencies, hospitals, schools, or non-profit organizations, assessing clients' needs, providing counseling and advocacy, and connecting them with resources and services.

5. Human Resource Specialist: Graduates with a BSocSc Hons Social Science degree can work in human resources departments, recruiting, training, and managing employees in organizations. They may specialize in areas such as employee relations, organizational development, diversity and inclusion, or talent management, helping organizations create inclusive and supportive work environments.

6. Educator: Some graduates pursue careers in education, working as teachers, instructors, or educational administrators in schools, colleges, or universities. They may teach courses in social studies, civics, sociology, or related subjects, inspiring students to critically examine social issues, develop empathy and understanding, and become informed and engaged citizens.

7. Advocate/Activist: Graduates may choose to work as advocates or activists, campaigning for social justice, human rights, environmental sustainability, or other causes. They collaborate with grassroots organizations, advocacy groups, or international NGOs, raising awareness, mobilizing support, and lobbying policymakers to address systemic injustices and promote positive social change.

8. Research Assistant: Graduates may start their careers as research assistants, supporting senior researchers in designing, conducting, and analyzing social research projects. They work in academic institutions, research institutes, or government agencies, gaining practical experience and developing their research skills before pursuing advanced studies or more specialized roles.

9. International Development Specialist: Some graduates may work in the field of international development, supporting initiatives to alleviate poverty, promote economic growth, and enhance social well-being in developing countries. They may work for international organizations, NGOs, or government agencies, designing and implementing projects in areas such as education, healthcare, gender equality, or sustainable development.

10. Further Education: The BSocSc Hons Social Science program also provides a strong foundation for further studies at the postgraduate level. Graduates may pursue master's or doctoral degrees in social science disciplines such as sociology, psychology, political science, or social work, specializing in areas of interest or preparing for academic or research-oriented careers.