Child, Youth and Family: Policy and Practice

Integrated Masters with deeper specialization and research focus
Taught in English
Duration 4 Years
Mode On Campus
Level Undergraduate
Degree Bachelors Degree
Next Intake TBA

Course Overview

The Child, Youth and Family: Policy and Practice Bachelors Degree at the University of Galway is designed for individuals passionate about fostering the potential of children and young people and supporting families. You will gain an in-depth understanding of key trends in family life, child and youth development, complemented by rigorous sociological and political studies. This programme emphasizes the belief that children and young people need to be valued and supported, and that families benefit from assistance, equipping you with essential knowledge and practical skills for impactful work in youth work, family support, and community development sectors. This degree programme grounds you in the realities of social issues and policy responses.

This full-time, on-campus programme is studied over four years, integrating theoretical knowledge with practical application. You will explore key areas such as child protection, family policy, youth work principles, and social research methods, culminating in a significant professional work placement in your third year with diverse organisations. In your final year, you will undertake a research project, applying your learning to contemporary issues in families and society. You will graduate prepared for careers in social care, policy development, and community engagement, equipped to make a tangible difference in the lives of children, young people, and families.

Course Curriculum & Details

Detailed information for serious evaluators

Program Overview

This program offers a comprehensive exploration of child, youth, and family studies, integrating theoretical knowledge with practical application. Students will examine key concepts in youth development, health, sociology, and politics, alongside an introduction to economic policy and community development. The curriculum progresses to delve into family dynamics, service provision, child protection, and the economics of social policy, culminating in advanced topics such as safeguarding, family law, and social work principles. A significant professional work placement provides invaluable hands-on experience.

1 Year 1

Introduction to Child, Youth and Family Studies
Youth Development
Children and Health
Introduction to Politics
Practising Politics
Introduction to Sociology
Practising Sociology
Introduction to Economic Policy
Community Development
Social Research Skills
Personal and Professional Development

2 Year 2

Understanding Family and Society
Youth Work Principles and Practice
Child, Youth and Family Service Provision in Ireland
Child Protection and Welfare
Economics of Family Policy
Social Issues and Policy Responses
Sociology of Health
Politics and Society: Themes and Topics
Economics of Public and Social Policy
Methods for Social and Political Science
Professional Development Skills

3 Year 3

Professional Work Placement (Sept-June)

4 Year 4

Research, Policy and Practice
Safeguarding Children, Young People and Vulnerable Adults
Issues in Contemporary Families
Family Law
Youth and Society
Equality, Diversity and Collective Action
Children and Young People in Families Today
Key Words in Social Work and Social Welfare
Introduction to Social Work

Cost & Affordability

A clear picture of what this course will cost you

Program Costs

First Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 22,645.00
Second Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 22,645.00
Third Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 22,645.00
Fourth Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 22,645.00
Total Program Cost Estimated total tuition
USD 90,580.00

Currency note: Program costs shown in USD based on the available tuition breakdown.

Living Costs

Accommodation
USD 864.00 - USD 1,085.00
Food & Groceries USD 2,807.00 - USD 4,491.00
Transport USD 702.00 - USD 1,684.00
Utilities & Bills USD 1,404.00 - USD 2,105.00
Estimated Total USD 4,913.00 - USD 8,280.00

Living cost estimates are based on Galway Campus.

Outcomes & Employability

What happens after you graduate

96%
Graduate Employment Rate Within 6 to 12 months of graduation

Common Graduate Roles

Banking & Financial ServicesCorporate & Commercial LawEducation Policy & AdministrationEmployment & Labor LawInternational & Human Rights LawMusic & Performing ArtsNursing & Allied HealthRehabilitation & PhysiotherapySecondary & High School EducationTax & Legal Compliance

Top Employers Hiring for this course

Atlantic Technological University

Centre for Talented Youth, Ireland (CTYI) at DCU

Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, Ireland

Dublin City University

European commission

Health Service Executive (HSE)

S3 Connected Health

St. Vincent's University Hospital

Why Study Child, Youth and Family: Policy and Practice at University of Galway

What makes this program stand out

Top 20 in UK For Computer Science

Exeter's Computer Science department consistently ranks among the top 20 in the UK for both teaching quality and research output.

Fast Offers Quick turnaround

Exeter typically responds to applications within 2-3 weeks, giving you clarity on your options quickly.

Flexible Intakes September start

Primary intake in September with January start available for some pathways through the INTO foundation program.

Accredited Industry recognized

Accredited by BCS, The Chartered Institute for IT, meeting requirements for Chartered IT Professional (CITP) status.

Life at University of Galway in Ireland

What daily life looks like for international students

Language

English

Primary language everywhere

Climate

Mild & Rainy

10-20°C average, pack layers

Safety (Numbeo Safety Index)

Very Safe

Exeter is one of UK's safest cities

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about Child, Youth and Family: Policy and Practice at University of Galway

Can I work while studying?

International students can work up to 20 hours per week during term time and up to 40 hours during breaks. No separate work permit is required, but you must be enrolled in a full-time program.

What English language score do I need for this course?

To meet the English language requirements, you can take TOEFL, IELTS, or PTE. For example, a TOEFL overall score of 88 with specific sub-scores is needed.

What jobs can I get after studying this course?

Potential job titles include youth worker, family support officer, community development worker, social worker, and policy analyst.

What will I actually study in this course?

This program focuses on key trends in family life and child development and includes sociological and political studies. It emphasizes the importance of supporting children and families to achieve their full potential.

When can I start — what are the intake months?

The intake month for the Child, Youth and Family: Policy and Practice program is September. Make sure to prepare your application in advance to secure your spot.
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