LLM Law
University College Cork offers an LLM (Master of Laws) program designed to provide adva...
BA Hons Sociology
Cork
INTAKE: September
Program Overview
The BA Hons Sociology program at University College Cork provides students with a comprehensive understanding of society, social structures, and human behavior. Through a combination of theoretical frameworks, empirical research methods, and critical analysis, students explore various aspects of society, including culture, institutions, inequality, and social change. This program equips students with the knowledge, skills, and perspectives needed to critically examine social issues, understand diverse social phenomena, and contribute to positive social change.
Theoretical Foundations: Students in the BA Hons Sociology program delve into the rich tradition of sociological theory, studying the works of classical and contemporary theorists such as Karl Marx, Max Weber, Emile Durkheim, and Michel Foucault. They examine different perspectives on society, including functionalism, conflict theory, symbolic interactionism, and post-structuralism, gaining insights into the complexities of social life and human behavior.
Research Methods: The program emphasizes the importance of empirical research methods in sociology, teaching students how to design and conduct social research projects, collect and analyze data, and interpret findings. Students learn both quantitative and qualitative research methods, including surveys, interviews, observations, and content analysis, enabling them to investigate social phenomena, test hypotheses, and contribute to sociological knowledge.
Specialized Areas of Study: The BA Hons Sociology program offers students the opportunity to explore specialized areas of study within sociology, such as criminology, gender studies, globalization, environmental sociology, urban sociology, and medical sociology. Students can choose elective modules tailored to their interests, allowing them to develop expertise in specific sociological topics and issues relevant to contemporary society.
Critical Analysis: Throughout the program, students develop critical thinking and analytical skills, learning to critically evaluate social theories, research findings, and sociological perspectives. They engage in critical discussions and debates about social issues, inequalities, and power dynamics, challenging taken-for-granted assumptions and exploring alternative viewpoints. This critical perspective equips students to analyze social problems, advocate for social justice, and contribute to positive social change.
Applied Learning and Practical Skills: The BA Hons Sociology program emphasizes applied learning and the development of practical skills that are relevant to various career paths. Students have opportunities for experiential learning through internships, community-based projects, and research collaborations with faculty members. They also acquire transferable skills such as communication, critical thinking, teamwork, and problem-solving, which are valued in diverse fields including social services, education, research, advocacy, policy analysis, and public administration.
Location
Cork
Score
IELTS: 6.5
Tuition Fee
€ 16400
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.
Graduates of the BA Hons Sociology program at University College Cork have diverse career opportunities in fields such as social research, social work, community development, policy analysis, human resources, non-profit management, education, and market research. Their strong analytical skills, research capabilities, and understanding of social dynamics make them valuable contributors to various sectors, where they can make a positive impact on individuals, communities, and society as a whole.
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Social Researcher: Graduates with a BA Hons in Sociology are well-equipped for careers as social researchers. They can work in research institutions, government agencies, non-profit organizations, or private companies, conducting research on various social issues, trends, and policies. Social researchers design surveys, analyze data, and produce reports that inform decision-making and contribute to social change.
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Social Worker: Many sociology graduates pursue careers in social work, where they provide support and assistance to individuals, families, and communities facing social challenges. They work in areas such as child welfare, mental health, substance abuse, homelessness, and aging. Social workers advocate for clients, assess their needs, develop intervention plans, and connect them with resources and services.
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Community Development Officer: Sociology graduates can work as community development officers, helping to strengthen communities, promote social inclusion, and address local issues. They collaborate with community members, organizations, and government agencies to identify needs, develop programs and initiatives, and mobilize resources for community improvement projects. Community development officers facilitate workshops, organize events, and empower community members to take collective action.
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Policy Analyst: With their understanding of social issues and research skills, sociology graduates are well-suited for careers in policy analysis and advocacy. They can work for government agencies, think tanks, advocacy groups, or research institutes, analyzing policies, evaluating their impact, and recommending changes to address social problems and inequalities. Policy analysts contribute to the development, implementation, and evaluation of social policies and programs.
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Human Resources Specialist: Sociology graduates often pursue careers in human resources, where they apply their understanding of organizational behavior, diversity, and social dynamics. They recruit and select employees, design training programs, develop diversity initiatives, and address workplace conflicts and issues. Human resources specialists ensure that organizations promote a positive work environment, respect employee rights, and foster diversity and inclusion.
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Non-Profit Manager: Many sociology graduates work in non-profit organizations, serving in managerial or leadership roles. They oversee program operations, manage budgets and resources, coordinate fundraising activities, and ensure compliance with regulations. Non-profit managers work in various fields such as education, healthcare, social services, and advocacy, leading organizations that address pressing social needs and advance social justice goals.
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Educator: Some sociology graduates pursue careers in education, teaching sociology or related subjects at secondary schools, colleges, or universities. They design curriculum, deliver lectures, facilitate discussions, and assess student learning. Educators play a crucial role in promoting sociological knowledge, critical thinking skills, and social awareness among students, preparing them for active citizenship and informed engagement in society.
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Market Research Analyst: Sociology graduates can work as market research analysts, helping businesses and organizations understand consumer behavior, market trends, and social preferences. They conduct surveys, analyze data, and generate insights that inform marketing strategies, product development, and brand positioning. Market research analysts help organizations identify opportunities, target audiences, and effectively communicate with customers.
