Social Work - Tertiary Education Programme

This full-time four-year undergraduate degree integrates theory and practice through further education, university, and agency-based learning.

Places are awarded on the course subject to personal statement and successful interview. Both the College of Further Education and the Higher Education Institution will be represented on the interview panel. Students will be invited to write their personal statement prior to the interview, as part of the interview process. Candidates seeking entry into this programme should have: Leaving Certificate with five subjects at grade O6 or Leaving Certificate with four subjects at grade O6 plus LCVP with distinction or Hold QQI Level 4 award with a minimum of a grade of distinction or Be mature applicants. Mature applicants – (i.e. those aged 23 on or before 1st January of the course commencement year). These applicants do not have to meet the minimum entry requirements listed here and are considered on an individual basis (previous education, work experience, and demonstration of competence to undertake the programme) Applicants from the United Kingdom and overseas would need to have educational qualifications of a standard equivalent to the minimum entry requirements above in a General Certificate in Education (GCE), such as the GCE A Level. Applicant’s Desirable Competencies and Experience Applicants considering the tertiary BSW degree should want to be part of an active and changing dynamic environment. They should also enjoy working with other people and value caring for people. In this environment, excellent problem-solving, critical, and reflective thinking skills are a strength. Potential students may have a special interest in social justice, human rights, and anti-oppressive practices. In line with UCC’s Graduate Attributes Programme, graduates will be recognised for being well-rounded, curious, self-aware individuals who continually learn new skills, are open to innovative ideas, and make things happen. English Language Requirements Applicants who are non-native speakers of the English language must satisfy the university of their competency in the English language, as follows:

• Irish Leaving Certificate English: Ordinary Level Grade O6
• GCE A-Level English Language: Grade D All applicants whose first language is not English and who have not been educated through the medium of English must demonstrate CEFR proficiency at B2 for access. Evidence of English Language Proficiency must be provided through one of the following mechanisms: 1. English language proficiency assessment conducted by relevant ETB during the enrolment process. Minimum B2 in all skills on entry. 2. A valid certificate in English language from one of the institutions listed below: International Examinations: Cambridge First Certificate in English (FCE), Minimum Grade – Grade B or higher International Examinations: Cambridge Advanced (CAE), Minimum Grade – Borderline Fail Min 170 points International Examinations: Cambridge Proficiency (CPE), Minimum Grade- Unsuccessful With min. 170 points International Examinations, IELTS, Minimum Grade 6 Duolingo English Test DET 120 with a minimum score of 110 in each individual section Note: IELTS certificates are only valid two years from the date of assessment. It is recommended that the same validity duration is applied to all other examinations.