Study at ITB

Introduction

This programme will be of interest to those who wish to study a range of social science subjects applied to community development and social policy analysis in a modern context and who wish to undertake a career in community development or in policy and social research.

Using an interdisciplinary approach, students will engage in a detailed knowledge of current social and community issues to assist organisations and agencies towards positive social change and development. Students will examine various layers of services and social functioning within the community and will develop a critical awareness of the social environment and cultural practices. Perspectives on human behaviour, social justice and community empowerment will be explored at a depth that will enable students to influence the role of and effects on individuals and groups in society and gain competences to operate in a professional manner.

During the first two years of the course, students take modules such as sociology, psychology, health and well-being, cultural competence, communication, community studies, addiction studies, group dynamics, anthropology and personal development and creative practice.

During the third and subsequent year(s), students will further their understanding of social and community development by choosing between two strands of study…Sociology and Cultural Development or Psychology and Community Health.

Garda Clearance

In addition to the choices above, students will complete a professional project practice in year 2 and year 3 that will allow them to use diagnostic skills and identify models and programmes that can implement change within the community

These professional project practices will require each student to undergo the ITB Garda Vetting process. To ensure the protection of the public, and to justify public trust and confidence, the Institute is committed to ensuring that only suitable candidates are allowed to undertake specific parts of the programme. Without satisfactory Garda clearance, students will be unable to complete the project practice and thus will not be able to complete the programme or receive an award. All places on the social and community development courses are provisional and subject to the student obtaining satisfactory Garda vetting from the Central Garda Vetting Unit.

The current legal minimum age for sole application for Garda vetting is 18 years of age. In the event of an applicant being between 16 and 18 years of age, written consent is also required from a parent or guardian.

In addition to Garda vetting a medical assessment and provision of personal references may be required in regard to suitability for the professional project practice. 

View our full range of Full Time Social and Community Development Courses...

Full time Social and Community Development Course list

Career Opportunities

Graduates of these courses may seek employment in different areas of social and community work such as civic leaders, local government advisors, councillors or community programme co-ordinators. Graduates may also be employed in a variety of sectors working with youth, marginalized or disadvantages groups, ethnic minorities, social enterprises and health promotion.

On completion of this programme graduates may gain employment in voluntary, statutory and private sector organisations or work with various charities and non governmental organizations (NGOs) at national or international levels.