Applied Social Studies with Special Needs Assisting (QQI Level 5)
This full-time one year programme offers an introduction to the theory and practice of Social Studies, Special Needs and Psychology. It aims to increase awareness of the practical applications of social and psychological theory, while also developing the skills and role of the Special Needs Assistant.
This programme is also relevant to those interested in applying psychological theories to the area of Special Needs Assisting in an educational setting. The course allows graduates to progress to a number of 3rd level courses or to progress to employment as a Special Needs Assistant (SNA).
- Psychology
- Intercultural Studies
- Social Studies
- Special Needs Assisting
- Human Growth & Development
- Personal Effectiveness
- Work Experience
- Mathematics (Optional)
- Research and Study Skills
- Safety and Health at Work
Modules are subject to change.
* Leaving Certificate, QQI level 4 or equivalent standard of education. All applicants are subject to an interview and an online assessment. Applicants must also satisfy An Garda Síochána vetting requirements.
| Technological University of the Shannon (TUS) | US921 Social Care Practice (Level 8) US780 Early Childhood Education and Care (Level 7) US782 Applied Social Studies in Social Care (Level 7) US925 Applied Psychology* *(Level 8) |
| Maynooth University (MU) | MH101 Arts (Level 8) MH116 Community and Youth Work (Level 8) MH107 Social Science (Level 8) |
| Atlantic Technological University (ATU) | AU593 Applied Social Care (Level 7) AU696 Applied Social Care (Level 8) AU985 Education Home Economics & Biology – Teaching AU986 Education Home Economics & Religion – Teaching AU990 Home Economics AU988 Home Economics Teaching |
| University of Galway | GY101 Arts (Level 8) GY104 BSC Psychology (Level 8) GY110 Arts (Children & Youth Studies) (Level 8) GY123 Social Sciences (Level 8) |
| South East Technological University (SETU) | SE926 Professional Social Care Practice (Level 7) SE918 Professional Social Care Practice (Level 8) SE205 Psychology (Level 8) |
| Carlow College | PC414 B.A. (Honours) in Psychology (Level 8)# |
| University College Dublin (UCD) | DN720 Psychology (Level 8) DN750 Social Policy and Sociology (Level 8) |
Places are not guaranteed in these institutes and are subject to students meeting certain criteria. Please consult the individual college websites for more information on application or www.cao.ie
# 3-year programme, €4,750 fees per year apply.
**QQI Level 5 or Leaving Certificate Maths required.
For further information, contact Elaine on 057 9349424 or email tullamore@loetb.ie
€50 QQI Level 5 Certification Fee – Medical Card holders or those in receipt of a Social Welfare payment are exempt from this Certification Fee.
VTOS: If you are over 21 years of age, are unemployed and have been getting certain social welfare payments for at least 6 months you can apply for the Vocational Training and Opportunities Scheme (VTOS). Successful applicants can receive a VTOS payment for the duration of the course, instead of their social welfare payment. Small meal and travel allowances may also apply
Course Details
Code:5M2181
Award Title: QQI Level 5 – Certification in Applied Social Studies
Duration: One year – September 2025 to May 2026.