All prospective students for the Applied Social Studies course are required to attend an interview.  A Leaving Certificate standard or equivalent and English language proficiency test where deemed appropriate.  The College Registrar course will discuss and advise you on the course details and career options. Mature students with relevant prior experience may be exempt from the above requirements.

The Aim of the Social Studies Course is to:

• Provide foundation skills and entry requirements to access degree courses in social Studies or related areas.
• Develop a range of personal and interpersonal qualities necessary for work in a range of community settings. 
• Be capable of creating and maintaining appropriate relationships with the client, their family and other professionals involved in their care.
• Acquire specialist knowledge, skills and competence in the role of the social care worker.
• Reflect on your abilities and aptitudes to work in the field of social care.
• Demonstrate good practice in the working environment.

• Social Studies
• Applied Psychology
• Legal Studies
• Equality and Disability
• Behavioural Studies
• Human Growth and Development
• Communications
• Work Experience

The Applied Social Studies course will be delivered over one academic year.  Work experience is a mandatory module for this award, therefore, students should be aware that they will be required to carry out 100 hours work experience outside of scheduled class time in order to satisfy the requirements of the FETAC work experience module.  This will provide an opportunity to merge classroom learning with practical experience under the tutelage of experienced and qualified professionals. 

It is recommended that each student should secure a work experience placement in their locality that does not conflict with class time or their own personal/work commitments and prior to commencing the course to alleviate any pressure once the course has commenced. ‘If however, the student is finding it difficult to find a placement the college are willing to support the student in this regard from our wide network of contacts.'

Dorset College is registered with the Garda vetting Unit and is now in a position to offer students a Garda vetting service.  As of the 1st July 2010 there is an approximate 15 week backlog in processing applications with the Garda Vetting Unit.