UG Prospectus 2025

162 WhyDCU? − Uniquemodules from the Social Sciences relating to Intercultural Studies, Sociology, Media, Politics and Innovation − Flexibility and focus, specialising as you progress through the course − Innovativemodules focused on developing key transferable skills for 21st century work and life − 12month paidwork placement (INTRA) in Year 3 or a Year abroad − Focus on applying knowledge in creative and effectiveways About You Are you are interested in exploring how culture, media and politics shape our world society and identity? Are you curious about what drives innovation and future trends, stimulated by learning how to design creative approaches to social issues? Are you keen to develop the knowledge, skills and abilities that enable you to carve out your own career path, then this is the course for you. Additional Requirements The general entry requirements for admission to theUniversity apply (see page 174). Understanding: Social Sciences andCultural Innovation The BA in Social Sciences andCultural Innovation brings an applied focus to the Social Sciences, in particular the disciplines of Intercultural Studies, Sociology, Media and Politics, as well as newer areas such as Social Entrepreneurship andCultural Innovation. The course also prioritises skills such as Creativity, Leadership, Teamwork andCollaboration, Ethical andCritical Thinking, Digital Literacy, Communicative Competence, Intercultural Communication, Intercultural Competence, Communicative Competence and Future Thinking. Furthermore, you have the possibility of studying abroad for a year or undertake a 12month paidwork placement (INTRA) where you can gain valuable experience. At its core, the BA in Social Sciences andCultural Innovation aims to help you develop the knowledge, skills and abilities needed for your personal and career development, and empowers you to pursue your goals with passion, professionalismand purpose. Course Structure The course is structured around 3 specific pillars, comprising both core and optional modules, relating to the study of Culture, Media and Politics. (i) Self, Society and Innovation: Explore themeaning and power of culture; study key social identities such as gender, nationality, ethnicity and social class; examine the drivers and impacts of globalisation andmass migration; identify local, national and global challenges; and develop creative strategies to address these. (ii)Media, Messaging and theDigitalWorld: Examine the hugely influential role played bymedia and technology in society; analyse advertising and other media outputs; study the history of journalismand how it is evolving; explore the challenges and opportunities facing traditional and newmedia in the 21st century, including the ever-increasing role of social media and digital platforms. (iii) Politics, Power and Internationalisation: Learn about national and international political systems; reflect on the concept of power in personal, political and economic relations; consider how various innovations influence how citizens engagewith politics; examine political ideologies and conflicts fromaround theworld; explore diverse approaches to international security and political terrorism. In each year of the course youwill take modules fromall 3 pillars, with the choice of options increasing annually. In the final year you choose to specialise in 1 pillar, while continuing to study the other 2 and youwill also have the opportunity to do in-depth research on a particular topic of interest. Throughout the course youwill do a variety of modules focusing on essential transferable skills, and from the outset your career development is given attention. With uniquemodules covering topics ranging fromapplied ethics to social psychology, multiculturalism to social innovation, and journalism to creative thinking, the BA in Social Sciences and Cultural Innovation is designed to help you stand out, rather than simply fit in, whatever your choice of career may be. After Year 3, you can opt for a year of study in one of our overseas partner universities, or apply for a 12month paidwork placement (INTRA). Availing of this optionmakes it a 4 year course, and adds significant value to the student experience at multiple levels. Year Abroad Our international partner universities are either based in an English-speaking country or are European universities wheremodules are delivered through English. Currently, we have partnerships in Australia, Czech Republic, France, Germany, Lithuania andMalta. For more information, please visit dcu.ie/placement/ study-overseas. The option is competitive and subject to the availability of places. INTRAWork Placement This year-longwork placement will give you a unique opportunity to enhance your CV, increase your employability and apply your knowledge and skills in the real world. This option is competitive and subject to the availability of placements. For more information, please visit dcu.ie/intra BA in Social Sciences andCultural Innovation Explore sociology, media and politics while acquiring key 21st century skills