The subject of Social Justice draws on a range of academic disciplines in order to advance understanding of issues such as inequality, discrimination and human rights abuses. It will appeal to those who would like to acquire the knowledge and skills to understand and challenge injustice and help bring about social change.

Undergraduate modules in Social Justice address themes such as global poverty and inequality; gender and sexual inequality; human rights; inequality in Irish society; childhood; racism; social justice movements; political economy and discrimination. During your four-year course, you will advance your knowledge about the key social issues of the 21st century, while developing your skills in relation to critical thinking, analysis, research, problem solving and communication. An emphasis on participatory learning means that your studies will take place within a supportive and stimulating environment, where you will have the opportunity to engage with like-minded people who share your interest in social justice.

First Year

In first year, you will undertake four foundational modules in Social Justice::

• Social Justice Perspective
• Exploring Gender
• Global justice
• Inequality and Social Justice in Irish Society.

Second Year

In second year, the social justice modules will develop your knowledge of racism and anti-racism, political economy, gender, power and politics, as well as your understanding of human rights and social justice.

Third Year

In third year, you can choose to study the ‘experiential’ modules ‘Social Justice & the City’ and ‘Social Justice Movements’ and select from a range of optional modules on key social justice issues. Students can apply to study abroad in year three or undertake an internship.

In third year, students can apply for an optional paid internship for one trimester in a range of organisations in the public and private sector, which help to inform future career decisions through real-world experience.

Fourth Year

Fourth year provides the opportunity for you to enhance your research skills by engaging in a research-based module. Students will also have an opportunity to build on their knowledge by choosing from a range of modules addressing issues such as discrimination, childhood and global justice, and inequality in the labour market.

Assessment

A variety of assessment methods are used throughout the Social Justice course, including essays, reports, presentations, reflective writing, problem-based learning, projects, examinations and critical commentaries.

For detailed information on subject content click here.

You may be interested in the following blog posts: Why I chose Social Sciences majoring in Sociology and Social justice.

Study abroad for a trimester or a year in third year. Destinations include the US, Australia, China, Canada.

At the end of their four-year programme, graduates of Social Justice have acquired knowledge and skills relevant to a range of fields of study and employment, including in-depth knowledge about the most pressing societal and global challenges of our time and advanced critical, analytical and communications skills.

The degree will provide a strong foundation for careers in: research, policy and advocacy in national and international non-governmental organisations; and public sector agencies. Relevant graduate study progammes include: Equality Studies, Gender Studies, Public Policy, Human Rights, International Development.

• Level 5/6 QQI-FET
  
• Open Learning Entry Route
• Mature Entry Route
• DARE Entry Route
  
• HEAR Entry Route
  
• University Access
  

UCD School of Social Policy, Social Work and Social Justice,
Hanna Sheehy-Skeffington Building,
Belfield,
Dublin 4.

Email: sp-sw-sj@ucd.ie