Social Work University College Dublin

Overview

The Social Work programme at University College Dublin provides students with a sophisticated understanding of the socio-economic and political factors that drive modern policy making. This curriculum is designed to address the increasing complexity of public service needs and the necessity for evidence-based decision-making in various administrative contexts.

Why Social Work at University College Dublin?

Students benefit from a programme that integrates sustainability principles, as University College Dublin is ranked 47th globally in the QS World University Rankings for Sustainability 2026. The course offers a unique internship opportunity during the summer months, allowing participants to gain practical work experience and build professional networks in lieu of a traditional research thesis. Additionally, the university provides specialist streams in areas such as environmental policy, urban policy, and regulatory governance, ensuring a tailored educational experience that meets specific career goals.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

• International fee: EUR 22600 per year
• European fee: EUR 9330 per year

Visit the Fees and Funding section for a breakdown in your local currency.

Syllabus

The curriculum consists of core modules and a selection of specialised options. Modules may include:

• Data & Methods for Policy Analysis
• Public Administration & Policy
• Evidence-Based Policy Making
• Evaluation for Public Policy
• Sustainable Futures and Public Policy
• Comparing Healthcare Systems
• Drugs & Drug Policy
• Housing and Social Cohesion
• Gender, Inequality and Public Policy

Careers with Social Work

Graduates are well-prepared for diverse roles across the public, private, and voluntary sectors. Many alumni have secured positions as policy analysts, advisors, and public affairs managers within prominent organisations. Notable employers of former students include the Health Services Executive (HSE), Tusla, Apple Ireland, and the Peter McVerry Trust. Furthermore, some graduates have successfully entered the Irish public service through the Irish Government Economic and Evaluation Service stream, demonstrating the high employability associated with this qualification.

Accreditation

The MSocSc (Social Work) in UCD is widely recognised internationally as a professional social work qualification. Graduates have successfully registered as professional social workers in the United Kingdom, the United States,Canada, Australia and New Zealand.